heritability? - ADD / ADHD Message Board

WanderingSoul · 06-07-2006, 06:48 AM

How likely is it, if a parent has it, that their child will have it?

Lately I've suspected I have it. But I also have depression (for upwards of 8 years now), and figured that the attention/concentration problems were related just to that. But just the other day I found out that my dad has ADHD, and has had it his whole life. And I've suspected my mom of having it too, because she is very forgetful and disorganized and absentminded.

So.. if my dad has it for sure.. and my mom might have it.... anyone know the percentage/likelihood of my having it?

busterangel · 06-07-2006, 10:26 AM

I am not an expert by any means, but everything I have read said that ADD and ADHD runs in families and that one parent most likely is ADD or ADHD as well as other siblings

amazonfriend · 06-07-2006, 01:42 PM

YES it is in the genes!!
My daughter has it....
so does my brother, father, uncle (my fathers brother) and grandfather on the same side.
Talk to your dr. He can help you get diagnosed. Read some good books they will point you in the right direction.

addprogrammer · 06-07-2006, 07:41 PM

Numerous studies that span decades show a strong genetic link.

If a parent is ADHD the chances are greater one or more children will be also. Genes play a cruel game of Russian roulette. It may skip a generation or two and then resurface in grandchildren.

One of the most covincing studies that I read was with twins adopted by separate families. Neither adopting parent were ADHD but both twins were. And so were their biological parents. This study analyzed several sets of twins not just one. The results were the same in all case. It ruled out environmental factors as causative. That is not to say that environmental changes cannot be helpful in mitigating symptoms.

Bob

shautzie · 06-08-2006, 10:55 AM

Hi

I saw your post and just had to reply, I Have ADD, My father has ADHD and Dsylexia and one of my sons has ADD and Dsylexia. It is common for a person who has Add to have depression or anxiety as result of having ADD. I am no expert BUT I have been tested extensively and my son also. I am now being treated for add and depression with a very small amount of medication.. I cannot tell you the diffrence along with learning modifications to help myself that it has made! It is very likely that you have had a depression due to the ADD.

If there is anything i can offer you,it is this there is a book called MOMS WITH ADD A SELF HELP GUIDE i found it at borders. It is wonderful for us moms who struggle with add and raising a family. I hope you are able to find a doctor who specializes in ADD to help you. I cannot tell you I am less stressed and alot more fun to be around now that i have gotten help! good luck let me know if i can be of any more assistance..