Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder marked by trouble controlling impulsive behavior, difficulty paying attention, or overactivity. It is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. ADHD interferes with a person’s ability to stay on a task and maintain focus. The person may act without thinking or have difficulty with self-control.
Some people with ADHD have symptoms related to hyperactivity/impulsiveness, while others may be mainly inattentive. Some people have a combination of both types of symptoms. There are several types of ADHD, which is usually diagnosed in childhood, although the condition can continue into the adult years.
Causes:
The exact causes of ADHD are not known, and there is no single cause.
Studies have shown that ADHD symptoms are related to the biology of the brain. It is thought that genetic and environmental factors can interact to cause changes in brain development and function.
Symptoms:
There are 2 groups of symptoms in ADHD:
Inattentive symptoms
- not paying attention to details, or making careless mistakes in schoolwork
- having difficulty remaining focused in class, conversations or reading
- avoiding tasks that take continuous mental effort (for example, homework)
- not following through on instructions, a tendency to start but not finish tasks
- having difficulty organising tasks, activities, belongings or time
- being easily distracted or daydreaming
- losing things
- not seeming to listen when spoken to
- being forgetful with everyday tasks, such as chores and appointments
Hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
- fidgeting and squirming
- running or climbing in situations where it is inappropriate, leaving their seat in class
- talking non-stop
- interrupting conversations, games or activities or using people’s things without permission
- blurting out an answer before a question has been finished
- having difficulty playing quietly
- having difficulty waiting their turn
- leaving the seat in class or in other situations where sitting is expected
- being constantly in motion, as if ‘driven by a motor’
- struggling to play or do tasks quietly
Treatment:
There is no cure for ADHD, but medicines can help decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity and increase attention. Other options include psychotherapy, education or training, or a combination of treatments.
Otter:
Symbolically the Otter represents creativity, imagination, and unconventional. When you live in a world attention deficit disorder the otter will be gliding next to you, showoff your unique view of the world. Giving you the boldness to show everyone has the right to be as they are.
- Species: There are 13 different species of otters, and they belong to the family Mustelidae, which also includes weasels, badgers, and minks. Some common otter species include the river otter, sea otter, and giant otter.
- Adaptations for Aquatic Life: Otters are well-adapted to life in water. They have webbed feet and a streamlined body, which allows them to swim efficiently. Their fur is dense and waterproof, providing insulation and buoyancy.
- Diverse Habitats: Otters can be found in a variety of habitats, including freshwater rivers, lakes, coastal areas, and marshes. Different species have adapted to specific environments, with some preferring freshwater while others are more inclined towards marine habitats.
- Dietary Preferences: Otters are carnivorous and primarily feed on fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and other aquatic creatures. They are known for their playful hunting techniques, often using rocks or other objects to crack open shells.
- Tool Use: Some otter species exhibit remarkable tool-use behavior. For example, sea otters are known to use rocks and other objects as tools to crack open shellfish. This behavior is not only practical but also showcases their problem-solving abilities.
- Social Creatures: Otters are generally social animals, and they often live in family groups. These groups, known as rafts, can consist of mothers and their offspring. They engage in various social activities, such as playing and grooming.
- Communication: Otters use a range of vocalizations and body language to communicate with each other. They may produce sounds like whistles, chirps, and growls. Communication is crucial for coordinating activities within the group and signaling potential threats.
- Territorial Behavior: Otters are territorial creatures, and they mark their territories with scent markings. These markings help establish and maintain boundaries between different otter groups, reducing the likelihood of conflicts.
- Conservation Concerns: Some otter species face threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and illegal hunting. Conservation efforts are in place to protect otters and their ecosystems, as they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems.
- Life Expectancy and Reproduction: Otters generally have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years in the wild, though this can vary by species. They usually give birth to one to six pups, depending on the species, and the young otters are raised and cared for by the mother
Introduction
Dr. Sir George Frederic Still (1868-1941) was a prominent British pediatrician whose groundbreaking work revolutionized the field of pediatrics. His extensive research and clinical expertise significantly contributed to our understanding of various childhood disorders, most notably Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This article delves into the life and achievements of Dr. Still, highlighting his remarkable contributions to the field of pediatric medicine and his pioneering work on ADHD.
Early Life and Education
Born on February 27, 1868, in Upper Clapton, London, George Frederic Still exhibited an early aptitude for science and medicine. He pursued his medical education at King’s College London, where he excelled in his studies, displaying an exceptional passion for understanding childhood illnesses and disorders.
Professional Achievements
Dr. Still’s career spanned over four decades, during which he made significant contributions to the field of pediatrics. He became a leading figure at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London, a prestigious institution known for its pioneering work in pediatric medicine. Here, Dr. Still worked tirelessly to advance the understanding and treatment of childhood diseases.
ADHD Research and Discoveries
One of Dr. Still’s most enduring legacies is his groundbreaking research on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In 1902, he published a series of lectures titled “Some Abnormal Psychical Conditions in Children,” where he introduced the concept of what he termed “defect of moral control.” This referred to a condition in children characterized by impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity, which we now recognize as core features of ADHD.
Dr. Still’s observations were revolutionary for their time, as they challenged prevailing notions about childhood behavior and mental health. He emphasized the biological basis of these conditions, stressing that they were not solely the result of poor parenting or environmental factors.
Legacy and Continued Influence
Dr. Still’s pioneering work on ADHD laid the foundation for modern research and clinical understanding of the disorder. His insights paved the way for subsequent generations of researchers, psychologists, and educators to develop effective interventions and support systems for children with ADHD.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of medicine, Dr. Still was knighted in 1937, becoming Sir George Frederic Still. His legacy endures not only through the continued study and treatment of ADHD but also through the broader impact he had on pediatric medicine as a whole.
Conclusion
Dr. Sir George Frederic Still’s life and work stand as a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and a dedication to improving the lives of children. His groundbreaking research on ADHD revolutionized our understanding of childhood behavioral disorders and paved the way for more effective interventions and support systems.
Today, his name is forever associated with the field of pediatric medicine, and his contributions continue to inspire generations of healthcare professionals and researchers. Dr. Still’s legacy serves as a reminder of the immense impact that one individual can have on the advancement of medical knowledge and the betterment of society as a whole.