ADHD is a disorder that is different from autism, not to be confused with it
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or commonly abbreviated as ADHD is one of the most common behavioral disorders in children. About 10% of school-aged children have ADHD. However, this disorder seems difficult to understand. Not infrequently, people think ADHD is the same as autism. In fact, both are different things.
So, what exactly is ADHD? What’s the difference between ADHD and autism?
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a behavioral disorder that starts in childhood and can affect adolescence and adulthood. Reporting from the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD is a disorder that occurs in the brain, this is characterized by inattention and / or hyperactivity and impulsivity that interfere with brain function and development in children.
Children with ADHD have difficulty staying focused. He usually does not feel at home if he has to sit and study for a long time. However, this is not because they do not understand what they are learning.
ADHD children are hyperactive children. They like to keep moving, maybe even to the point of annoying friends who are nearby. They also like to act impulsively. That is, they like to take sudden actions without thinking about it, they don’t like to delay craving or gratification.
What’s the difference between ADHD and autism?
Children with ADHD and autism both have problems with attention. Their behavior likes to change suddenly (impulsively) and also has difficulty communicating. They have problems relating to other people.
Because they look similar, people sometimes equate ADHD with autism. However, they are actually two different things. Then, what’s the difference?
If you pay close attention, children with ADHD will be different from children with autism. ADHD has more of an impact on how the brain grows and develops. Meanwhile, autism is a series of developmental disorders that affect language skills, behavior, social interactions, and learning abilities.
In terms of attention …
Children with ADHD tend to avoid things that need to be highly focused, such as reading books. They even seem to have no interest in these things from the start. Meanwhile, children with autism tend to want to try to focus on the things they like. They can learn the things they like best, such as playing with certain toys.
In terms of interaction and communication with other people
Children with ADHD tend to talk non-stop. They can be annoying when people talk and like it when they are dominant in discussions. Meanwhile, children with autism often have difficulty getting words into thoughts and feelings. Thus, they may find it more difficult to express their opinion. They also find it difficult to make eye contact.
In terms of routine
Children with ADHD tend to dislike engaging in the same routine every day or for long periods of time. Meanwhile, children with autism tend to like things in order, they like order, and they don’t like it when their routine suddenly changes.
What should be considered when caring for a child with ADHD or autism?
It is difficult for you as a parent, even for doctors, to distinguish between ADHD and autism. Sometimes, some children with autism also have ADHD. However, a diagnosis of ADHD or autism must be made so that children get the right treatment.
Proper treatment aims to manage both ADHD and autism symptoms, not to cure them. A combination of drug and behavioral therapy is the best way to treat a child with ADHD or autism. Behavioral therapy aims to help children change their behavior.
Children with autism may need to receive various types of therapy, related to behavior, speech, sensory integration, and learning, to help them communicate and connect with other people.
Treatment for ADHD can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, and can improve concentration, work, understanding, and physical coordination skills. Sometimes several drugs of different types and dosages must be tried before finding the one that is right for your child.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Bhandari, S. (2017). Is It ADHD or Autism?. [online] WebMD. Available at: http://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-or-autism#1 [Accessed 31 Aug. 2017].
National Institute of Mental Health. NIMH »Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. [online] Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml [Accessed 31 Aug. 2017].
Hasan, S. (2014). What Is ADHD?. [online] Available at: http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/adhd.html#kha_51 [Accessed 31 Aug. 2017].
