ADHD makes it hard for a person to focus and pay attention and can last into the teen and adult years. It can affect a person’s success at relationships, school, and work. Healthcare professionals recommend a multimodal treatment plan for children with ADHD—including medication, education, and behavioral therapies—to help children concentrate and learn. People with ADHD usually have average or above-average intelligence, and with treatment and support, can manage their ADHD and develop their strengths.
Six things you should know about ADHD
- ADHD affects as many as 1 in 20 children, both boys and girls, though it occurs in boys more frequently
- ADHD begins in childhood, though it may not be diagnosed until later in life
- The symptoms of ADHD typically appear between the ages of 3 and 6
- Adults with undiagnosed and untreated ADHD are more likely to have a history of school, work, and relationship challenges that affect their self-esteem and their opportunities
- There are effective treatments available that help children and adults with ADHD develop their unique strengths
- Children with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder than are other youth