What is Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)?

The new ICD 11 of World Health Organization (WHO) descripts ADHD as:

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"Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is characterised by a persistent pattern (at least 6 months) of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that has a direct negative impact on academic, occupational, or social functioning. There is evidence of significant inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms prior to age 12, typically by early to mid-childhood, though some individuals may first come to clinical attention later. Inattention refers to significant difficulty in sustaining attention to tasks that do not provide a high level of stimulation or frequent rewards, distractability and problems with organization. Hyperactivity refers to excessive motor activity and difficulties with remaining still, most evident in structured situations that require behavioural self-control and impulsivity. The relative balance and the specific manifestations of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive characteristics varies across individuals, and may change over the course of development. In order for a diagnosis to be made, manifestations of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity must be evident across multiple situations or settings (e.g. home, school, work, with friends or relatives). Symptoms are not better accounted for by another mental, behavioural, or neurodevelopmental disorder and are not due to the effect of a substance or medication."

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Diagnosis of ADHD:

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Our diagnosis of ADHD is done by a highly specialised paediatrician for children aged 6 – 16 years and includes:

• Medical history

• Medical observation

• Social and educational history

• Conner’s questionnaire (parents, school and self)