ADHD information

ADHD or hyperactivity currently affects about two million children in the United States. Symptoms can be mild or severe and often are related to language, memory and motor skills. Most children with ADHD are very smart but have problems with learning and behavior. The child usually has a short attention span and impulsiveness that can make learning difficult.

ADHD is diagnosed by observing a child’s behavior. A diagnosis of ADHD can be made by a physician, or psychologist. But, parents need to know what signs to look for in their child that might indicate they have ADHD. Especially if you have an active, energetic child and teachers at school or relatives may be hinting that you should have your child tested. If you know what the characteristics of an ADHD child are, you can make a determination at home and then decide if you need to take your child to the doctor.

Hyperactivity in a child can be seen as fidgeting or continually squirming in their seat. The hyperactive child can not sit still and often will get up and leave the classroom or dinner table. They will be running, moving and climbing excessively even where it is inappropriate. Most times they will have a hard time playing a quiet game or watching a movie where they must be still for a long length of time.

Impulsivity in a child will be noticed as one who often blurts out answers to a question inappropriately. Usually the question has not even been completed and the child is

already answering it. The impulsive child can not wait in a line for long with out getting restless and causing problems. Most times waiting for a turn in a game or group activity is extremely difficult for an impulsive child.

Inattention in a child is characterized by a child who fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, homework, or other activities. This

child often has difficulty sustaining attention for any activity that is lengthy in time. An inattentive child does not seem to be listening to what is being said to them and does not follow through on instructions in schoolwork, homework, chores or games.

This child also can have difficulty organizing themselves at school or home. They will often lose their school work, toys, clothes, pencils and other things more often than normal. The inattentive child does not like or will avoid any task that requires a lot of thinking or concentrating. They are also very easily distracted by outside stimuli.

If your child seems to exhibit many of the above characteristics, take them to their doctor for diagnosis. Or, mention it to the school nurse or counselor and they can lead you to help.

When left untreated, ADHD can cause severe problems in school, at home and in social settings. Without treatment, ADHD children are frequently disruptive in school, defiant

and have difficulty maintaining friendships. Many children that are left to deal with ADHD on their own without a prescribed medication from a doctor, will self-medicate

with drugs and alcohol later in life.

It is important to realize that a hyperactive child’s behavior is not intentional, they understand the rules but find them very difficult to follow. They don’t stop to look or listen or think before they act on their impulses and this makes it very frustrating for them and the caregiver as well. A child with ADHD carries a very heavy burden because they want to please, but many times find it hard to maintain control.

Treatments are available for children diagnosed with ADHD which may include medications such as Ritalin or Adderall. Behavior Modification, where good behavior is rewarded, and counselingto deal with impulsiveness is also a very important step in controlling ADHD. This type of education is important for the patient as well as the parent.

With proper treatment an ADHD child can be successful and happy.