Learn About ADHD | What is ADHD ?

This video by Ummeed Child Development Center, Mumbai, features Dr. Vibha Krishnamurthy explaining what Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is, how it may present in children, and what families and professionals can do to support a child who might have ADHD.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or professional, this article will help you understand ADHD more deeply and compassionately—from recognising early signs to seeking assessments and interventions.

What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition, which means it’s part of how a person’s brain develops and functions. ADHD affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels—and it often shows up in childhood.

But ADHD is not about being lazy, unmotivated, or ‘badly behaved.’ Children with ADHD are wired differently. Their brains may process information and respond to the world in ways that can be challenging in typical classroom or home settings but this doesn’t make them any less capable, intelligent, or deserving of understanding.

How ADHD might show up in a child

ADHD can look different in different children, and symptoms can change with age. It’s usually noticeable before the age of 12, though some individuals are diagnosed only in adolescence or adulthood often when their own children are diagnosed, as ADHD can run in families.

To be considered ADHD, the symptoms must significantly affect a child’s daily functioning, either at school, at home, or in social settings.

Some children may show signs of:

• Inattention:
  They may appear like they’re not listening, forget instructions, lose things often, or leave tasks incomplete. They may have difficulty organizing schoolwork or focusing for long periods. In some cases, they might become hyper focused – getting so absorbed in something they enjoy that it’s hard to shift their attention.

• Hyperactivity and Impulsivity:
  Some children may seem fidgety, restless, or constantly ‘on the move’. They may talk excessively, interrupt their peers in conversations, or find it hard to wait their turn in games. This can make social interactions difficult.

These behaviours are not intentional. Children with ADHD are not choosing to be “naughty” or disobedient, they’re navigating real challenges with self-regulation, and they need support, not shame.

Why ADHD can be overwhelming for a child

ADHD can affect many parts of life, not just school. Children may:

• Struggle with organizing homework, remembering deadlines, or keeping track of materials
• Find it hard to follow multi-step instructions
• Experience difficulty waiting for their turn
• Feel misunderstood or be labeled as “lazy” or “disruptive” by others
• Face challenges in making or keeping friendships
  

Some children with ADHD may also have learning differences such as dyslexia. These co-occurring conditions may require more individualized support.

What to do if you suspect ADHD in your child

If you think your child might have ADHD, it’s important to seek an expert evaluation—not to label your child, but to better understand them and provide the right support.

The assessment should include input from:

• Parents
• Teachers or caregivers
• The child themselves

Including the child in the process is crucial. Their experiences and feelings matter.

A proper diagnosis involves a multidisciplinary team, typically led by a:

• Developmental pediatrician
• Child psychiatrist
• Clinical psychologist
  

If ADHD is diagnosed, your healthcare professional may recommend medication, which can help reduce inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. But medication is just one part of a larger support plan. The professional will work closely with you and your child to monitor progress and ensure the approach is helping—not just academically, but emotionally and socially.

What happens after diagnosis?

Once the assessment is complete, additional professionals might join your child’s support network:

• Counselor – to support emotional regulation and coping skills
• Special educator – to provide academic strategies and accommodations
• Clinical psychologist – for deeper behavioral insights or therapy
• Social worker – to support the family with services or coordination

At first, it may feel like a lot to coordinate. But with time, understanding, and collaboration, many children with ADHD learn how to navigate challenges and build on their strengths.

Strengths and success with ADHD

It’s important to recognize that ADHD is not a barrier to success. In fact, many people with ADHD are creative, energetic, big-picture thinkers who thrive when their environments support them. They may excel in tasks that require imagination, innovation, or quick decision-making.

But to reach their full potential, they need:

• Structure (like routines and clear expectations)
• Support (from teachers, parents, and professionals)
• Understanding (especially when things don’t go to plan)
  

With the right help, children with ADHD can develop strong relationships, succeed in school, and grow into confident, capable adults.

If your child has ADHD—or if you suspect they might—it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at first. But know this: you are not alone, and help is available. With timely assessment, collaborative care, and consistent support, your child can thrive.

The video is made by Ummeed Child Development Center, Mumbai.

Need help or have questions?

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DISCLAIMER:

This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified health professional for proper guidance.