ADHD has a worldwide prevalence of 5 percent, becoming the most commonly diagnosed developmental disorder. In Australia, it is the most commonly diagnosed childhood developmental disorder. In the past decade, the number of children diagnosed with this condition has significantly increased (see image below).
ADHD is a behavioural condition in which symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention negatively effect social interactions and academic functioning. Often ADHD presents with children often have difficulties across multiple environments such as at home, school and with peers. This can often result in adverse effects later in life in academic, occupational, socio-economic, psychiatric areas and other conditions such as learning difficulties, depression, anxiety, OCD and ODD.
Families who have children diagnosed with ADHD can experience high levels of frustration, martial discord and divorce. It is estimated that 70 percent of children diagnosed with ADHD will continue to exhibit symptoms of this disorder through to adolescence and a portion of these children will retain symptoms of ADHD into adulthood.
Children diagnosed with ADHD can require a disproportionate share of resources and attention from school, health services and other social services agencies.
However, children diagnosed with ADHD who receive effective remedy and support can have full and successful lives. This includes a full biochemical investigation, dietary changes and nutritional support, Neurofeedback to reduce the trinity of ADHD symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention, sound therapy if auditory processing issues are present and remediation of literacy skills if reading, spelling and comprehension problems are present.
It is essential that the families of children diagnosed with ADHD, or exhibiting symptoms of ADHD, have access to appropriate and effective services and support.
