Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the Brazilian Association for Attention Deficit (ABDA), the number of ADHD cases varies between 5% and 8% globally.
Despite its high prevalence, the popularization of the topic outside of a clinical context has led to superficial interpretations of the symptoms. Difficulties concentrating, procrastination, or restlessness, for example, are frequently associated with ADHD without proper evaluation, which reinforces the importance of a thorough professional diagnosis.
In this article, you will understand what ADHD is, what its main symptoms are, how it is diagnosed, and what the most appropriate therapeutic approaches are.
What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
For a long time, ADHD was interpreted as an exclusively behavioral problem, especially because children with the disorder often exhibit excessive restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty following rules. Currently, however, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorderthat can manifest from birth or in the first years of life.
The disorder is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, restlessness, and impulsivity, typically more common in boys. ADHD is associated with difficulties in essential cognitive functions, particularly sustained attention, working memory, organization, planning, and emotional control—fundamental skills for learning, social interaction, and performance in daily activities.
ADHD can manifest in three clinical presentations:
- Predominant inattention;
- Predominant hyperactivity/impulsivity;
- Combined presentation.
Signs and symptoms of ADHD
ADHD usually manifests itself in childhood, with signs generally noticed before the age of 12, although it does not always significantly interfere with academic performance initially.
The most common symptoms include:
- Inattention: manifests itself mainly in tasks that require constant attention, prolonged vigilance, or a quick response.
- Impulsivity: characterized by hasty decisions and actions, often with negative consequences.
- Hyperactivity: involves excessive motor activity, difficulty remaining still, constant agitation and restlessness.
Currently, it is estimated that between 20% and 60% of children with ADHD have learning disabilities. Their behavioral history may indicate low frustration tolerance, difficulty coping with disagreements, stubborn or aggressive behavior, impaired social skills, relationship problems, sleep disorders, anxiety, dysphoria, depression, and indecisiveness.
Symptoms in adults
Although ADHD begins in childhood, the disorder may not be identified until adolescence or adulthood. In these cases, symptoms tend to manifest differently, but continue to impact daily life and interpersonal relationships.
Among the most common symptoms in adults are:
- Difficulty concentrating;
- Difficulty completing tasks;
- Restlessness;
- Mood swings and impatience;
- Difficulty maintaining relationships.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ADHD is essentially clinical and follows the criteria established by the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). These criteria consider the number, frequency, and severity of symptoms, requiring the presence of six or more signs of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.
Early recognition of these signs is not always simple. This is because behaviors such as inattention can be common in childhood and often do not immediately raise concerns in parents or guardians. Thus, the signs of the disorder tend to be perceived more clearly only when they begin to significantly interfere with the child's school performance.
Furthermore, there are no laboratory tests or imaging tests capable of confirming the diagnosis, which makes specialized clinical evaluation even more important.
Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Treatment for ADHD should be individualized, taking into account the patient's age, the severity of symptoms, and the impact of the disorder on their daily life. Generally, approaches include:
- Behavioral therapy;
- Educational interventions;
- Drug treatment, when indicated.
therapy is one of the cornerstones of treatment, especially in preschool children. In older children, adolescents, and adults, the doctor may complement behavioral therapy with medication, which may be stimulant or non-stimulant, depending on their assessment.
When performed properly, treatment contributes to significant improvements in physical and emotional well-being, promoting greater autonomy, better academic and professional performance, and healthier social relationships throughout life.
