A Journey Toward Awareness, Acceptance, and Action
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. Characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, ADHD can significantly impact a person’s academic, professional, and personal life if not properly diagnosed and managed.
Despite being widely known, ADHD is often misunderstood. Many assume it’s just a behavioral issue or simply “bad parenting,” but in reality, ADHD is a medical condition rooted in differences in brain structure and function.
Core Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD typically presents in three main forms:
- Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
- Difficulty sustaining attention
- Frequently makes careless mistakes
- Easily distracted and forgetful
- Trouble organizing tasks
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
- Fidgeting or squirming in seat
- Talking excessively
- Interrupting or intruding on others
- Difficulty waiting for turns
- Combined Presentation
- Exhibits both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
Each person’s experience with ADHD is different, and symptoms can vary in severity and frequency.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of ADHD is unknown, several factors may contribute:
- Genetics: ADHD often runs in families
- Brain structure and function: Differences in certain areas of the brain, especially those involved in attention and impulse control
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Exposure to environmental toxins during pregnancy or early childhood
It’s important to note that ADHD is not caused by eating too much sugar, poor parenting, or watching too much television — common myths that stigmatize individuals with ADHD.
Diagnosis and Treatment
ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes medical exams, interviews, and behavior checklists. It must be assessed by a qualified professional — often a psychologist, psychiatrist, or pediatrician.
Treatment Options Include:
- Medication: Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamines are most commonly prescribed. Non-stimulants may also be used.
- Behavioral Therapy: Especially effective in children — helps build structure and learn coping skills.
- Educational Support: Classroom accommodations like extra time on tests or fidget tools can make a huge difference.
- Parent Training and Support Groups: Helps families better understand and support their child.
Living with ADHD
ADHD is a lifelong condition, but with the right strategies and support, individuals with ADHD can lead productive, creative, and fulfilling lives. Many successful people — from entrepreneurs to artists to scientists — have ADHD and use their unique ways of thinking to their advantage.
Living with ADHD means learning to navigate the world a little differently. It requires self-awareness, consistency, compassion, and sometimes, a strong support network. But it is not a limitation — it’s a different wiring of the brain that brings both challenges and strengths.
ADHD in Bangladesh: The Need for Awareness
In Bangladesh and many other developing countries, ADHD often goes undiagnosed due to lack of awareness, stigma, and limited access to specialists. Many children are punished or isolated in schools for behavior they cannot control. Parents may feel ashamed or helpless.
At the Al Faisal Initiative, we believe in changing that narrative. By raising awareness, providing support, and promoting acceptance, we aim to ensure that no child or adult with ADHD is left behind or misunderstood.
How You Can Help
- Educate yourself and others about ADHD
- Speak up against stigma and misinformation
- Support local initiatives that provide therapy, counseling, and educational support
- Donate or volunteer with organizations helping neurodiverse children
ADHD is not a flaw — it’s a different way of thinking, feeling, and processing the world. With understanding and support, people with ADHD can unlock incredible potential and live impactful lives.
Let us commit to building an inclusive society where every child and adult — neurotypical or not — is respected, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Join us in making a difference.
Reach out to learn how you can volunteer, donate, or become an advocate for children with ASD and ADHD.
Author: Abdullah Al Faisal
Founder, Al Faisal Initiative
www.alfaisalinitiative.com
