Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Introduction
Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition that effects millions of children and often continues into adulthood. ADHD includes a combination of persistent problems such as difficulty sustaining attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.
Children with ADHD may also struggle with low self-esteem, troubled relationships and poor performance in school. Symptom sometimes lessens with age. However, some people never completely outgrow their ADHD symptoms, but they learn strategies to be successful.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD –
It is normal for children to have trouble focusing and behaving at one time or another. However, children with ADHD do not just grow out of these behaviors. The symptoms continue, can be severe and cause difficulty at school, at home or with friends.
A child with ADHD might: –
- Daydream a lot
- Forget or Loose thing a lot
- Squirm or Fidget
- Talk too Much
- Make Careless Mistakes or take Unnecessary Risks
- Have a Hard Time Resisting Temptation
- Have Trouble Talking Turns
- Have Difficulty Getting Along with Others
Causes of ADHD –
- Brain Injury
- Exposure to Environmental Risks (e.g., lead) during Pregnancy or at Young age
- Alcohol or Tobacco use during Pregnancy
- Premature Delivery
- Low Birth Weight
Kids with ADHD can show Signs in any or all of these Areas: -
Inattention – Kids who are inattentive (easily distracted) have trouble focusing their attention, concentrating and staying on task. They may not listen well to directions, may miss important details and may not finish what they start. They may daydream or dawdle too much. They may seem absent- minded or forgetful and lose track of their things.
Hyperactivity – Kids who are hyperactive are fidgety, restless and easily bored. They may have trouble sitting still or staying quiet when needed. They may rush through things and make careless mistakes. They may climb, jump or roughhouse when they shouldn’t without meaning to, they act in ways that disrupt others.
Impulsive – Kids who are impulsive act too quickly before thinking. They often interrupt, might push or grab and find it hard to wait. They may do things without asking for permission, take things that aren’t theirs or act in a way that are risky. They may have emotional reactions that seem too intense for the situation.
Assessment
- Development Screening Test (DST)
- INCLENE (For ADHD)
- Vanderbilt Tool
- Sensory Profile - II
- Vineland Social Maturity Scale
- IQ Assessment
If your child exhibits any of the symptoms listed above, please contact us to schedule a private consultation with our Paediatric Expert.
FAQs
ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopment disorder that affects children and can continue into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have difficulty with attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
If you suspect your child might have ADHD, it is important to consult with a Clinical Psychologist. They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, considering your child’s behaviour, development, and medical history. Only a qualified professional can provide an accurate diagnosis.
No, ADHD is not caused by bad parenting or a lack of discipline. It is a medical condition that involves differences in brain structure and function. Parenting and discipline strategies may need to be adjusted to support children with ADHD, but they are not the cause.
No, excessive screen time does not cause ADHD. However, it is generally recommended to limit screen time and ensure a healthy balance of activities for children. Setting boundaries around screen use and encouraging other forms of play, such as outdoor activities and creative pursuits, can promote overall well-being.
Collaborating with your child’s school and teachers is crucial. Developing an individualized education plan (IEP) can outline specific accommodations and strategies to support your child’s learning needs. Regular communication with the school and advocating for your child’s needs can make a positive difference.
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