| By Tara Shekouri |
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (in short, ADHD) is a mental health disorder. In fact, it is among the most prevalent disorders among children and can persist throughout adolescence, adulthood, and old age. ADHD is recognized as a chronic condition that can significantly affect various aspects of an individual's life, such as their academic and work performance, interpersonal relationships, and daily activities. Some symptoms of ADHD include inattention, such as difficulty maintaining focus; impulsivity, characterized by unplanned actions made without prior consideration; and hyperactivity, which involves excessive movement that may not correspond with the setting.
ADHD is diagnosed by mental health or primary care physicians based on a psychiatric examination that includes a patient's and caregivers' symptoms, medical history, family history, education, environment, and upbringing information, as well as a referral for medical review.
Types of ADHD
Inattentive Type
A few of the symptoms include:
Getting bored easily.
Losing pencils, papers, erasers, etc.
Having trouble following directions.
Being distracted easily and tending to miss details.
Having difficulty learning new information.
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
A few of the symptoms include:
Frequently getting up when seated.
Blurting out or talking out of turn.
Squirming.
Fidgeting and tapping hands and feet.
Being drawn to risky behaviour.
Combined Type
Individuals with this kind of ADHD have symptoms from both attentive type and hyperactive-impulsive type.
ADHD and Adolescents
Although individuals at all ages can experience ADHD, adolescents in high school specifically have higher social and academic pressures and expectations placed on them, which can become quite stressful. Teenagers are expected to be capable of handling much more independence—which includes less structure in their school and home life, as well as less teacher and parental supervision. Without intervention, adolescents with ADHD typically have lower scores on standardized achievement tests and grade point averages. They may also have an increased likelihood of performing more poorly in school and being suspended for disruptive behaviour.
It is important for adolescents to have access to the proper accommodations in school, such as extra time for tests, if necessary. Tutors or homework helpers can aid in assisting students and providing support when it comes to academic material or discipline. They can provide motivation, aid them in being and staying organized, suggesting studying techniques and tips, and so on. Helping teenagers create a structured environment for themselves at home where they can stay on track, focus, and manage their responsibilities with confidence. Tutors and homework helpers can also suggest sites, apps, and other resources where students can find educational help, if needed.
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