Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, is a common mental disorder that develops in children. Children with ADHD experience impaired performance in many settings, including home, school, and in relationships with peers. If untreated, the disorder can have long-term adverse effects into adolescence and adulthood.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of ADHD will appear over the course of many months, and include:
- Impulsiveness: a child who acts quickly without thinking first.
- Hyperactivity: a child who can't sit still, walks, runs, or climbs around when others are seated, talks when others are talking.
- Inattention: a child who daydreams or seems to be in another world, is sidetracked by what is going on around him or her.
How is it diagnosed?
If ADHD is suspected, the diagnosis should be made by a professional with training in ADHD. A child psychiatrists, psychologists, developmental/behavioral pediatricians, behavioral neurologists, clinical social workers, and licensed therapist are some of the professionals that can diagnosis this malady. First the specialist eliminates other possible reasons for the child��s behavior, and then checks the child��s school and medical records. The specialist talks to teachers and parents who have filled out a behavior rating scale for the child. A diagnosis is made only after all this information has been considered.
Treatment
Every family wants to figure out the best treatment for their child. This question should be answered by each family in conference with their health care professional.
Which Treatment Should My Child Have?
For children with ADHD, no single treatment is the answer for every child. Each child is different and many areas must be considered. Medication is sometimes an option but on other occasions may cause undesirable side effects and make it unacceptable. If a child with ADHD experiences anxiety or depression too, a treatment combining medication and behavioral therapy might be best. The personal history and needs of each child must be considered carefully and then a treatment plan can be formulated. Behavioral therapy, emotional counseling, and practical support will help ADHD children cope with the everyday problems and feel better.
