Frequently Asked Questions

Is everybody with ADHD hyperactive?

No, there is more than one subtype of ADHD. Those diagnosed with ADHD Predominantly Inattentive Subtype have no symptoms of hyperactivity. See the fact sheet on the Symptoms of ADHD for more information

Where does ADHD come from?

Research shows that ADHD tends to run in families so there are likely to be genetic influences.  Children who have ADHD usually have least one close relative who has ADHD.  At least 1/3rd of all fathers who had ADHD in their youth have children with ADHD.  Even more convincing of a possible genetic link is that when one twin of an identical twin pair has the disorder, the other is likely to have it too.

Does poor parenting cause ADHD?

No, poor parenting does not cause ADHD but it may make final symptomatology worse.  It is important for parents who have children with ADHD to learn as much as possible about the disorder and how it affects their child. It is quite clear that multi modal, i.e. medication, behaviour management and appropriate school management, leads to the best results in treating ADHD.

What is involved in the diagnosis of ADHD?

The diagnosis of ADHD is a clinical diagnosis, which can be reliably made using well tested diagnostic interview methods. There are two major classification systems used throughout the world both of which are based on history, the description of appropriate symptoms, observable behaviours in at least two separate settings (ie school and home) and the exclusion of other conditions that may mimic ADHD. The diagnosis should include input from parents, teachers and others who may be interacting with the child. The diagnosis should also consider other conditions, which may accompany ADHD in 70% of cases such as depression, anxiety, learning difficulties, developmental status, oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder. There is no "test" for ADHD, this is not unique to ADHD but applies to most psychiatric disorders including other disabling conditions such as schizophrenia and autism.

Is ADHD caused by too much sugar or food colourings?

The current weight of evidence indicates that ADHD is not caused by too much sugar or food colourings in the diet. There are no well established nutritional interventions that have been consistently demonstrated to be effiective for assisting the great majority of children with ADHD.  A small body of research has suggested that some children may benefit from these interventions, but delaying the implementation of well established effective interventions while engaged in the search for unknown, general unproven allergens, is likely to be harmful for many children.

The above statements should not be confused with the diagnosis of food allergy or food intolerance. There is no doubt that some foods do affect children's behaviour but this is not ADHD. If there is a suspicion that the child has food intolerance/food allergy, consultation with an appropriately qualified dietitian should take place in order to identify the offending substances. ADHD and food intolerance may co-exist as two separate conditions just as ADHD and Asthma may co-exist and this should be taken into account as well.

The medication is suppressing my child's appetite!  What can I do to ensure he is getting enough to eat?

The most common side effect of stimulant medications (Dexamphetamine or Ritalin) is appetite suppression. In the majority of cases however, this should not lead to any nutritional deprivation or poor weight gain.  Timing the doses of medication correctly, ensuring adequate calorie intake at times when the medication is not effective, i.e. breakfast and dinner, the use of long acting medications, and high calorie foods, are effective methods for overcoming medication based appetite suppression. If the child is not gaining weight adequately it is important to keep an open mind and assess the situation carefully as