Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a set of chronic conditions marked by an inability to pay attention, hyperactivity and impulsive acts. It begins in childhood and can affect all areas of a patient’s life. Between 3 and 5 percent of school-aged children – or about 2 million children in the United States – have ADHD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Boys outnumber girls by at least a three to one ratio, according to Mental Health America. However, girls may be underdiagnosed.

For many years, controversy has surrounded ADHD as some experts have differed over exactly what constitutes ADHD. In recent years, the NIMH has declared definitively that ADHD is a mental health condition. The term ADHD is sometimes used interchangeably with the term attention deficit disorder (ADD). Although both terms are used for the condition or one of its types, ADHD is the name as defined by the American Psychiatric Association, in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), which defines mental health conditions for clinical diagnoses.

ADHD may first appear shortly before a child begins school. The symptoms of inattention, inability to sit still or follow directions become more noticeable in the structured school environment. These symptoms can be part of normal development that can vary from child to child. If they persist for more than six months and are disruptive, the child may be diagnosed with ADHD. Children with ADHD may develop low self-esteem resulting from difficulties in their relationships and struggles at school associated with the condition.

Although ADHD always begins in childhood, it may persist into adulthood. ADHD diagnosis has progressed greatly in the past decade. Many parents who participate in their child’s diagnosis realize that they had the same problems themselves beginning in childhood and persisting into adulthood as inattention, disorganization and restlessness and they may seek diagnosis and treatment themselves. The DSM-IV criteria for ADHD are usually applied to children. This guides concentrates mostly on ADHD in children.

In some children, ADHD symptoms will diminish over time, but others will experience symptoms well into adulthood. Medications, psychotherapy and the support of family, teachers and other adults can help children to meet the challenges presented by ADHD.