|

Author:
Angie Dixon

Tourette Syndrome: A very small proportion of people with ADHD have a neurological disorder called Tourette Syndrome, which causes various nervous tics and repetitive mannerisms. While very few children have this syndrome, many of the cases of Tourette syndrome have associated ADHD.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder: As many as one-third to one-half of all children with ADHD--mostly boys--have another condition, known as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). These children are often defiant, stubborn, non-compliant, have outbursts of temper, or become belligerent. They argue with adults and refuse to obey.

Conduct Disorder: About 20 to 40 percent of ADHD children may eventually develop conduct disorder (CD), a more serious pattern of antisocial behavior. These children frequently lie or steal, fight with or bully others, and are at a real risk of getting into trouble at school or with the police. They violate the basic rights of other people, are aggressive toward people and/or animals, destroy property, break into people's homes, commit thefts, carry or use weapons, or engage in vandalism. These children or teens are at greater risk for substance abuse experimentation, and later dependence and drug abuse. They need immediate hlep.

Anxiety and Depression: Some children with ADHD often have co-occurring anxiety or depression. If the anxiety or depression is recognized and treated, the child will be better able to handle the problems that accompany ADHD. Vice versa, effective treatment of ADHD can have a positive impact on anxiety as the child is better able to master academic tasks.

Bipolar Disorder: There are no accurate statistics on how many children with ADHD also have bipolar disorder. Differentiating between ADHD and bipolar disorder in childhood can be difficult. In its classic form, bipolar disorder is characterized by mood cycling between periods of intense highs and lows. But in children, bipolar often seems to be a rather chronic mood dysregulation with a mixture of elation, depression, and irritability. Furthermore, there are some symptoms that can be present both in ADHD and biplar disorder, such as a high level of energy and a reduced need for sleep. Of the symptoms differentiating children with ADHD from those with bipolar disorder, elated mood and grandiosity of the bipolar child are distinguishing characteristics.

If you suspect your child has a comorbid disorder that has not been diagnosed, bring it up with his doctor at your next visit.

Information from this article comes from the National Institute of Mental Health Report "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder."

Angie Dixon is a writer and ADHD mom of an ADHD son, Jack. For a free report on helping your ADHD son, see Angie's site "That's My Son!" at http://www.Raising-the-ADHD-boy.com

| Article Keywords: ADHD News

A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to ADHD News... ADHD Beyond The Classroom (NC)—Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is thought by some to be an "academic" disability causing difficulties with attention and concentration in the classroom. However, ADHD is more than just an academic issue, it is a neurobiological disorder caused by chemical differences in the brain. Untreated, it may affect all aspects of the lives of those with ADHD, including his/her social interactions, extra-curricular activities and family relationships. ADHD requires continuous symptom relief to improve the overall functioning of a child. Studies have shown that children with ADHD who do not receive treatment run the increased risk of accidental death, injury, sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse and criminal activity, along with causing marital difficulties for their parents. Social abilities and development of strong interpersonal skills are also at risk. Many children with ADHD have few friends and suffer from low self-esteem. Proper diagnosis can help those with ADHD put their difficulties into perspective and provide a better understanding of many ADHD symptoms. Although more formal checklists are used in assessing ADHD, the patient support group CHADD, Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, lists the following core symptoms: Poor attention to detail Fidgeting Difficulty sustaining attention Poor listening skills Difficulty following instructions Difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly Poor organization Always "on the go" Excessive talking Losing things Easily distracted Impatient Forgetful Interrupting others Proper treatment of ADHD can manage symptoms and provide children with a chance to fulfill their potential. Research shows the...