What is ADHD, and how does it manifest?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder of neurobiological origin, characterized by persistent inattention, impulsivity, and/or motor hyperactivity that exceed what is expected for the child’s age and developmental level. Diagnosis and treatment are the exclusive responsibility of a specialized physician (child psychiatrist, psychiatrist, pediatric neurologist, or neuropsychologist). Explore our stress and behavior support packages and our natural health supplements for children to complement medical care.
- Three clinical subtypes (DSM-5): predominantly inattentive presentation (formerly ADD) — difficulty concentrating, frequent forgetfulness, tendency to daydream, poor organization — predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation — motor restlessness, impatience, frequent interruptions — combined presentation (the most common) — a combination of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity
- Signs in children: difficulty sustaining attention during homework or activities—often loses belongings—easily distracted by external stimuli—constantly fidgets, cannot sit still—often acts without thinking—academic difficulties despite normal intelligence—sleep disturbances frequently associated
- Signs in adults (often underdiagnosed): difficulties with time management and organization — chronic procrastination — instability in work or relationships — tendency to be forgetful in daily life — intense hyperfocus on activities of interest (in contrast to usual inattention) — anxiety and depression frequently co-occur
- Prevalence and causes: affects 5–7% of children and 2.5–4% of adults — high heritability (75–80% — one of the most genetically determined psychiatric disorders) — abnormalities in the development of dopaminergic and noradrenergic circuits in the prefrontal cortex — aggravating environmental factors: exposure to certain toxins (lead), prematurity, perinatal stress
- Common comorbidities: learning disorders (dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysorthographia) — anxiety disorders — mood disorders — sleep disorders (70% of children with ADHD) — oppositional defiant disorder — the presence of comorbidities is the rule rather than the exception
Diagnosis and Medical Treatments for ADHD
- Diagnosis: a rigorous process: made by a specialist following a comprehensive evaluation (interviews with the child, the parents, the teacher, and a neuropsychological evaluation) — DSM-5 criteria require that symptoms be present in at least two different settings (school and home) for more than 6 months — an evaluation is also recommended for adults if ADHD is suspected to have gone undiagnosed during childhood
- Stimulant medications (methylphenidate—Ritalin, Concerta, Quasym): the standard of care in France according to the HAS—increase the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex—effective for improving concentration, impulsivity, and hyperactivity in 70–80% of cases—initial prescription restricted to specialists—regular follow-up required (growth, blood pressure, appetite)
- Non-stimulant medications: atomoxetine (Strattera) — a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor — an alternative in cases where stimulants are contraindicated or where tics are present — effects develop gradually over 4–8 weeks — guanfacine (Intuniv, available in France since 2024) for ADHD with comorbid anxiety
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT): the gold standard for non-pharmacological treatment, particularly in young children (< 6 years old) and as a complement to medication—focus on emotion regulation, organizational strategies, problem-solving—cognitive remediation to improve executive functions—parent training (Barkley, Triple P) recommended
- School and accommodations: Children with ADHD may be eligible for a PAP (Personalized Support Plan) or a PPS (Personalized Education Plan) — possible accommodations: extra time on exams, classroom seating arrangements, adapted schedule — an ADHD coordinator may be available in some schools — TDAH-France (tdah-france.fr) supports families through these processes
Natural Supplements and Micronutrients with Research Evidence for ADHD
- Omega-3 EPA and DHA: the best-documented supplements for ADHD—several meta-analyses show a modest but significant effect on attention and hyperactivity—mechanism: DHA is a major component of the neuronal membranes in the prefrontal cortex—recommended dose in studies: EPA > DHA, 1–3 g EPA/day — particularly useful for those with a diet low in fatty fish
- Magnesium: Studies show that a significant proportion of children with ADHD have low magnesium levels — role in dopaminergic transmission and the regulation of neuronal excitability — supplementation with magnesium bisglycinate at 100–200 mg/day for children, 300–400 mg/day in adults — improvement in irritability and agitation in short-term studies
- Zinc: a cofactor for dopamine β-hydroxylase and neurotransmitter synthesis — low zinc levels found in some children with ADHD — a few positive studies on reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity with 15–30 mg/day of elemental zinc — do not supplement without laboratory testing (serum zinc)
- Vitamin B6: a cofactor for dopamine and serotonin synthesis — the Mousain-Bosc study (2006) showing a benefit of the B6 + magnesium combination on ADHD symptoms — available in combined Mg-B6 formulations — do not exceed recommended doses (risk of neuropathy if taken in excess)
- Important warning: Natural supplements are not approved for the treatment of ADHD — they are never a substitute for medication prescribed by a doctor — their effectiveness is modest and varies from person to person — always inform your primary care physician or specialist before starting — drug interactions are possible with stimulants
Organization, Lifestyle, and Resources for Living Better with ADHD
- Organizational Strategies: paper or digital planner with reminders — breaking down complex tasks into small steps — checklists — a clutter-free and structured work environment — timers for work sessions (adapted Pomodoro Technique) — set morning and evening routines to minimize forgetfulness
- Sleep: 70% of children with ADHD have sleep disorders — stimulants can delay falling asleep → take them in the morning if possible — immediate-release melatonin 0.5–3 mg in the evening has been shown to help with falling asleep in ADHD — explore our sleep product lines
- Meditation and mindfulness: positive studies on reducing impulsivity and improving attention in ADHD — MBSR programs adapted for children with ADHD are available — cardiac coherence (5 min, 3 times a day) reduces associated anxiety — biofeedback and neurofeedback (EEG-BF) programs are currently being evaluated
- Physical activity: Exercise releases dopamine and norepinephrine → immediate improvement in attention (30–60 minutes before a demanding task) — combat sports, yoga, swimming, rock climbing: particularly recommended for children with ADHD (body awareness, concentration, motor skills)
- Resources in France: ADHD-France (tdah-france.fr—parent and patient associations, directory of specialists)—HAS (has-sante.fr — 2014 ADHD best practice guidelines, currently under review) — HyperSupers ADHD France association — ADHD consultations at CMPs (Medical-Psychological Centers, free with a doctor’s referral) — neuropsychological evaluation covered by insurance under certain conditions
