What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting 5–8% of children worldwide. In India, it is significantly underdiagnosed — many children are labeled as "naughty," "lazy," or "stubborn" when they actually have ADHD.
ADHD presents in three types:
- Predominantly Inattentive: difficulty focusing, forgetful, easily distracted, loses things, doesn't listen
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive: can't sit still, talks excessively, interrupts, acts without thinking
- Combined Type: both inattention and hyperactivity (most common)
Signs of ADHD in Indian Children
At Home: Cannot complete homework without constant prompting, loses school items daily, forgets instructions immediately, runs and climbs everywhere, cannot wait for turn during family meals.
At School: Daydreams in class, submits incomplete work, calls out answers before question finishes, annoys other students by touching or talking, avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
Important: These behaviors must be present in more than one setting and must significantly impair functioning. Every child is sometimes inattentive or active — ADHD is a consistent pattern across months.
Who Diagnoses ADHD in India?
- Pediatric Psychiatrist (most qualified)
- Child Psychiatrist
- Developmental Pediatrician
- Clinical Psychologist (assessment only, not prescription)
What Tests Are Done?
ADHD diagnosis is clinical — there is no blood test or brain scan. Diagnosis involves:
- Structured interview with parents about developmental history
- Conners Rating Scales (parent and teacher forms)
- Vanderbilt Assessment Scale
- Continuous Performance Test (CPT) for attention
- IQ assessment (to rule out learning disability)
- Rule-out: vision/hearing tests, thyroid function
Cost and Where to Go
Government (free/subsidized): NIMHANS Bangalore, AIIMS OPD, Child Guidance Clinics attached to government hospitals, DEIC (District Early Intervention Centre).
Private: ₹2,000–8,000 for full evaluation. Child psychiatrist consultations: ₹500–2,000/visit.
After Diagnosis
ADHD management in India typically combines behavior therapy, school accommodations, parent training, and medication (methylphenidate — Ritalin/Concerta — when indicated).