Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is part of the broader spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), disorders linked by atypical development of the nervous system and affecting one or more brain functions.
ADHD is characterized by manifestations of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity, which do not correspond to the usual level of development.
These symptoms can affect the daily quality of life of people affected by their leisure activities, school or work environment, and social and family relationships.
By convention, we use the ADHD spelling to name attention deficit disorder with and without hyperactivity instead of the diminishing use of the term ADD/H.
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder with or without hyperactivity. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDS), a condition that occurs during brain development.
ADHD affects approximately 5% of children and nearly 2.5% of adults. Symptoms must be present in childhood, although some may not be identified until later in life.
Contrary to some conventional wisdom, ADHD is not simply a problem of staying focused. It is a complex disorder whose manifestations vary greatly from person to person and often change over time.
What causes ADHD?
Researchers now agree that there is no single cause of ADHD.
Scientific evidence indicates the existence of genetic factors involved in its development. It is not a single "ADHD gene," but rather a set of genetic characteristics that may influence brain development and increase the risk of developing the disorder.
These genetic factors are complemented by environmental factors. In particular, the researchers observed an association between ADHD and certain situations occurring before or around birth. These include high prematurity, low birth weight, and prenatal exposure to tobacco and certain substances.
However, these factors alone do not explain the development of ADHD. They are considered to be associated with increased risk, but not a simple causal relationship.
Symptoms that vary by individual
One of the unique features of ADHD is the wide variety of its manifestations.
International classifications mainly distinguish between two broad categories of symptoms: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Difficulty Maintaining Attention
Chez certaines personnes, les difficultés concernent principalement l’attention.
Il peut être difficile de rester concentré sur une tâche pendant une période prolongée, notamment lorsque celle-ci demande un effort mental soutenu. Cette inattention peut entraîner des oublis fréquents, la perte d’objets du quotidien ou encore des difficultés à traiter certains détails.
Ces manifestations peuvent avoir des conséquences importantes à l’école, dans les études ou dans la vie professionnelle.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity
For some people, the difficulties relate mainly to attention.
It can be difficult to stay focused on a task for an extended period of time, especially when it requires sustained mental effort. This can lead to frequent oversights, the loss of everyday objects or difficulties in handling details.
These manifestations can have important consequences at school, at school or in working life.
Events that go beyond attention
ADHD is not limited to symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity.
Other manifestations may be associated with the disorder. Some concern the emotional sphere, with sometimes more difficult management of emotions. Others concern time perception or motivation.
These characteristics can vary considerably from person to person, which is why two individuals with ADHD may have very different profiles.
Symptoms often change with age. The difficulties experienced by a child are not necessarily the same as those encountered in adolescence or adulthood.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a clinical assessment by a physician trained in the disorder.
According to the recommendations of the High Health Authority, several professionals may participate in the evaluation and accompaniment of patients. However, the diagnosis itself must be made in a specialised medical setting.
It is important to note that there is currently no single test to confirm ADHD.
Contrary to some conventional wisdom, no single test, no biological analysis, and no brain-imaging examination can today make the diagnosis with certainty.
The doctor therefore relies on an in-depth interview to trace the history of symptoms since childhood. This approach also eliminates other medical or psychological situations that might explain the difficulties observed.
What is the management of ADHD?
Management of ADHD is individualized. It depends, among other things, on the patient’s age, needs, environment and preferences.
For both children and adults, non-drug approaches may be available. They are based mainly on psychotherapeutic support aimed at better understanding the disorder and developing strategies adapted to daily life.
Where necessary, drug treatments may also be prescribed. The drugs used are usually psychostimulants, the prescription of which is strictly controlled.
These treatments are put in place and monitored by a doctor, who regularly assesses their effectiveness and tolerance.
Understanding ADHD through research
ADHD remains a major topic of neuroscience research. Scientists are working to better understand the brain mechanisms involved in this disorder, as well as the complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors.
This work helps to improve diagnosis, personalise care and provide better support for the people concerned throughout their lives.
Learning more about ADHD also helps to combat prejudice. Behind this disorder are very varied profiles, whose difficulties but also their resources deserve to be recognized. A better understanding of how the brain works is therefore an essential step in promoting appropriate management and improving the quality of life of those concerned.
Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD)
Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) is part of a wider spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). In other words, disorders associated with an atypical development of the nervous system, and affecting one or more...
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