Can ADHD be inherited?
Yes, usually a parent or relative also has the condition and it's thought that several genes are likely to be involved. Evidence of brain dysfunction has been found in brain imaging studies. But there's no simple screening test to identify those people carrying genes that might increase susceptibility to ADD/ADHD, and no prenatal screening available.
How's is ADHD diagnosed and treated?
It's not clear why children develop ADHD, so it's difficult to prevent it and can be difficult to diagnose. Although there's no cure, an early diagnosis and help at home can really help. Your GP can refer you for diagnosis. Your child will normally be seen by a child psychiatrist or an educational psychologist who will assess their behaviour.
What is the treatment for ADHD?
- Your child may be recommended stress management and help with their behaviour. Educational support can be offered too through their school.
- Medication can help some children concentrate and be less disruptive. Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) can help your child to focus.
- Diet can play a huge part in helping some children overcome their hyperactivity. Research has shown that Omega 3 essential fatty acids found in oily fish and supplements, are hugely beneficial to children's brain function.
Further help and information
The Hyperactive Children's Support Group
Tel: 01243 539966
Web: www.hacsg.org.uk.
The National Attention Disorder Information and Support Service
Tel: 020 8952 2800
Web: www.addiss.co.uk.
Parentline Plus: 0808 800 2222
Web www.parentlineplus.org.uk.
YoungMinds: 0800 018 2138
Web www.youngminds.org.uk.
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leanne, 7 months [Offensive? Unsuitable? Report this comment.]
i have ADHD, and take nearley the highest dost of CONCERTA XL. i am now 18 years old and bin taken it for years. for all you who have children like me please please listen to them. the way it makes us think is that 'we have to take medicine to be good..and normale and even at 18 i still think that. i think paernts need to be more understanding that althogh we might be bad and need these tablits sometimes we do it just for are mums and dads, i only take mine because my mum is ill. and i always think 'hang on these tablits i take everyday...what is going to happen in the long run' and no one can tell me the answre... we dont like it as much as parents.. think. your children who have ADHD most probaly feel stupid... vary sad.. all the negative werds you can possible think of i feel and all i can say to you is just encorage your children even when they are bad remeber its not are falt. so many dont understand us...and how hard it is for us... we would never delibrately want to wind you all up or be narsty or embarrasing to those we love.. its so hard and for me who has bad ADHD i shoud no.. people who have ADHD ushually clash and my brother has it so can you imajine how hard it is for my mum... every day i feel like i stick out like a sore thumb..when im in the shops running around hiding and all sorts and when people stare it dont make me feel any better than who ever is with me... all i can say is please tell your child every day that IT AINT THEAR FALT... and to listen to them good luck with your children and hope ive bin abel to help you