Don't use online tools to self-diagnose ADHD, they can't determine severity

ATTENTION-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most prevalent behavioral issue among school-aged children, affecting approximately 7% of kids.

- Anna Jose @ Kochi

ATTENTION-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most prevalent behavioral issue among school-aged children, affecting approximately 7% of kids. This condition is notably more common in boys, with a prevalence rate three times higher than in girls. Celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Fahadh Faasil, and Shine Tom Chacko have spoken about their experiences with ADHD, helping raise public awareness.

Dr Arun B Nair, professor of psychiatry at Government Medical College Thiruvananthapuram, said ADHD is a neurobiological disorder caused by dopamine deficiency. "One important function of dopamine is attention. When the level of dopamine is reduced, the sensory gate of the brain is disturbed. So the child will perceive every stimulus with equal intensity. Even when he is trying to concentrate in class, he will easily be distracted by other noise. There should be a sufficient amount of dopamine in the brain to focus attention. It is also considered a neurodevelopmental disorder," said Dr Arun, adding that the majority of children exhibit symptoms of ADHD before the age of seven, but in some people, it will be delayed till 12 years.