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ADHD is not caused by upbringing, wrong parenting skills etc. There are a number of ideas behind what causes ADHD. They have ranged from prenatal and peri-natal difficulties, diet and lead poisoning, alcohol or drug consumption by the mother during pregnancy. However in most cases it is a question of genes and these are inherited. Research has shown, today, that certain chemicals in the brain play a very definite part in the problems that surround ADHD.
It is important to recognise that biological factors only predispose people to behave in certain ways. Most behavioural and emotional difficulties can be bettered by developing techniques of self-control and by structuring the environment in particular ways.
It has been pointed out that bad parenting does not cause ADHD but unfortunately ADHD children create a bad environment and a bad environment can make ADHD symptoms worse. Consequently the whole family is going to need help as otherwise it is going to be a vicious downward spiral of negativity for everyone
Comorbidities
Children with ADHD usually have co-morbidity. It is very rare to find a child with pure and simple ADHD. It is very important that these co-morbidities be diagnosed and treated as a separate disorder. Dyslexia, Dispraxia, Discalcula, ODD, COD, OCD, Tourrettes are included. Learning Difficulties and the development of language can also be a problem. Reading and written expression can also be problematic.
Help and Support
The ADHD Family Support Group is currently run by a committee composed of several people including people with ADHD. The group is a non-governmental organisation offering support, information and advice based on personal experience and a sympathetic ear. The Support Group (Malta) was set up in April 1996 by a group of three families each of which had experience of the condition, much of it gained from a diagnosis in the USA.
The Association in no way undertakes to diagnose or medicate.
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