ADHD is the most common neuropsychiatric disorder of childhood. The incidence in the general population is estimated to be between 4%-12% of school-aged children and adolescents, approximately 400,000 to 500,000 Canadian children between the ages of 5 and 19 are affected.

Although the causes of ADHD are not fully understood, scientific research has proven that it is a biologically based disorder affecting the brain. It is characterized by three major symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These three symptoms can be present in varying degrees in children with ADHD and therefore the disorder can be broken into three subtypes: Inattentive, Hyperactive/Impulsive and Combined. Specific guidelines for the diagnosis of ADHD have been set forth in the most recent edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition (DSM –IV).

To learn more about ADHD, how it can be diagnosed, and treatment options, view the PDFs below.

Patient information on "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder" is available in PDF format by clicking the image.	Patient information on "ADHD Myth versus Fact" is available in PDF format by clicking the image.

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