Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What is ADHD? —
ADHD stands for "attention deficit hyperactivity disorder." Some people call it just ADD, or "attention deficit disorder." It is a condition that can make it hard to sit still, pay attention, or make good decisions.
ADHD often begins in childhood and can run in families. It is more common in males than in females.
There is no cure for ADHD, but different treatments can help manage it.
What are the symptoms of ADHD? —
Children with ADHD have 1 or more of these:
●Increased activity, called "hyperactivity" – A child might have trouble sitting still or playing quietly.
●Acting impulsively – A child might interrupt others or do things without thinking them through.
●Trouble paying attention – A child might be forgetful, lose things, or have trouble finishing a project.
All these things can cause a child to have trouble in school, at home, or with friends.
Symptoms often begin by 4 years old and can change over time. Children often still have symptoms as teens and adults.
Is there a test for ADHD? —
No. If you think your child has ADHD, talk to their doctor or nurse. They will ask about your child's symptoms and behavior at home and at school. To find out about your child's behavior at school, ask their teacher.
A doctor can make a diagnosis of ADHD only if a child's symptoms:
●Are seen in more than 1 place, for example, both at home and in school
●Last at least 6 months
●Start before age 12
●Affect their friendships or schoolwork
Other conditions can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. For example, children who have trouble learning to read can also have a tough time in school. Your child's doctor or nurse will try to figure out what is causing your child's symptoms. But this might involve a few visits to the doctor.
How is ADHD treated? —
ADHD can be treated in different ways. Treatment can improve symptoms and help children do better at school, at home, and with friends. Your child's doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. They depend on your child's age and situation as well as your preferences.
Children with ADHD might have 1 or more of these treatments:
●Medicines – Doctors can prescribe different medicines to help children pay attention and concentrate better. ADHD medicines often work very well to improve the condition, but they can cause side effects. Some children need to try more than 1 medicine to figure out which is right for them.
●Behavior treatment – Your doctor might recommend behavior therapy for your child to help with their ADHD symptoms. You can also improve your child's behavior by making changes at home. For instance, you can make a checklist for your child to use every morning so they remember what to do. Examples of other things you can do to help are given below.
●Changes at school – Teachers can make changes in the classroom to help children with ADHD do better in school. For example, a teacher might write down what the homework is every day so the child does not forget. Or a teacher might give a child extra time to finish schoolwork. Work with the teacher and school to create a "school plan" that is right for your child. Remember that a school plan might need to change over time as your child gets older or if their symptoms change.
Some children with ADHD have other problems, too. These can include problems with learning, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. Work with your child's doctor to treat these if needed. Sometimes, this can even help improve ADHD symptoms.
What else can I do to help my child? —
It's important to follow your child's treatment plan. If they take medicine for ADHD, make sure they take it as instructed. The doctor will want to see your child regularly to check how treatment is working so they can make changes if needed. Tell the doctor if you see changes in your child's behavior or side effects from their medicine.
It can also help to:
●Keep a similar schedule each day. For example, try to have your child eat and sleep at the same times every day.
●Try to keep your home calm, without a lot of distractions.
●Have your child keep things like schoolwork, toys, and clothes in the same places.
●Set small goals for your child they can achieve. It can help to use charts and checklists to help them stay on track.
●Support your child in finding activities and hobbies they enjoy.
●Try to stay calm when disciplining your child. Try things like time out, distraction, or removing them from the situation.
●Reward positive behavior. Try not to focus on negative behaviors.
You might hear or read about treatments for ADHD that include things like special vitamins or diets. Experts do not know if these help improve symptoms. Check with a doctor before trying any of these treatments.
Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD? —
Yes. ADHD can run in families. Some adults figure out they have ADHD only after their child is diagnosed with it. ADHD can also cause adults to have trouble at work or with relationships.
If you are an adult and think you might have ADHD, talk with your doctor or nurse about treatment. It might also help to talk to a counselor or go to a self-help group to learn ways to manage symptoms.
Patient education: Medicines for ADHD in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Symptoms and diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children (Beyond the Basics)
