Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition causing high impulsiveness, inattention, and hyperactivity. People with this condition find it difficult to control their impulses, energy levels and cannot focus for extended periods. ADHD is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders, with over 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults in the US dealing with some form of the condition.
We all have spells of inattentiveness and hyperactivity, but people with ADHD experience these episodes more frequently with adverse effects on their work, studies, and other aspects of their lives.
Researchers do not know why exactly people develop ADHD. Many believe it could be a combination of neurological and genetic factors. Some research points toward changes in neurotransmitter levels, while others link ADHD to reduced gray matter volume.
The uncertainty about ADHD causes has caused the proliferation of myths around its causes, including:
- Watching television
- Playing video games
- Poverty
- Poor parenting
- Eating too much sugar
None of these things can directly cause ADHD, even if they can potentially aggravate its symptoms.
Types and Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD cases are classified into three groups based on presentations. It could be:
Predominantly Inattentive
People with this type of ADHD struggle to focus on tasks or follow instructions. Children with this type of ADHD may not be easily diagnosed as they are not necessarily disruptive. Symptoms of predominantly inattentive type include:
- Difficulty listening, reading or holding a conversation
- Easily distracted by things in their environment
- Inability to organize their daily tasks
- Making mistakes often and missing details when working or studying
- Losing items frequently
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive
Individuals with this type of ADHD are hyperactive and impulsive. They may be fidgety, disruptive, and unable to stay still for more than short periods. Symptoms of this type of ADHD include:
- Inability to carry out tasks quietly
- Excessive talking
- Interrupting other people talking, playing, or carrying out tasks
- Inability to stay still for long
- Unable to wait in a queue
Combined Hyperactive-Impulsive and Inattentive Type
This type of ADHD combines symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention. People with this type of ADHD are inattentive, impulsive, and have high energy levels.
Treatment of ADHD
ADHD treatment approach depends on the type and symptoms the patient presents. Treatment for most people is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Drugs affect brain chemistry to help patients better handle their impulses, while behavioral therapy teaches them to track and manage their symptoms.
Ritalin and Adderall are the two most prescribed drugs for treating ADHD, with others like Bupropion, Atomoxetine, and Neucon treatments helping patients better handle their symptoms. Natural remedies and some lifestyle modifications may also improve symptoms in some patients.
How ADHD Affects Kids
ADHD can affect a child’s all-growth and development. In school, the child may struggle to keep up with tasks. Though not a learning disability, some kids with the condition may not be able to learn or even read. Inattentive symptoms make them unable to follow what the teacher says in class, leading to general underperformance.
Children with ADHD may struggle to complete their chores and homework at home. They may require more supervision than other kids, making their siblings feel neglected. Their impulsiveness can also cause conflicts between kids with ADHD and their siblings. Some parents may also not agree on the most appropriate way of handling a child with ADHD, causing several disagreements among the parents.
ADHD can also impact a child’s social life. Children with inattentive symptoms may be shy and find it difficult to make friends. Those who are hyperactive may make friends easily but struggle to maintain relationships. Kids with ADHD may also struggle with emotional problems. Struggling to keep up with schoolwork and other activities can cause esteem issues in children with ADHD.
Parental Tips for Handling Kids With ADHD
Proper parenting is an essential aspect of dealing with ADHD effectively. Most parents may not know how best to help their child with ADHD. Here are some tips to help parents of children with ADHD.
Learn About the Condition
Parents need to get as much information as possible about the condition. Speaking with their child’s health care provider and attending therapy sessions can help them know how ADHD affects their child. Understanding the peculiarities of the disorder will equip them to help their child improve.
Avoid Overwhelming Your Child With Tasks
Parents may be eager to see their children improve and overload them with tasks as a result. This approach can be counterproductive in many cases as the child may feel overwhelmed by the many responsibilities. It is advisable to start with small tasks, one at a time and praise the child for every effort.
Connect With Other Parents
It can help to connect with other parents who have kids with ADHD, as they can provide insights on effective treatments and ways to help their child. Joining support groups like CHADD or ADHD forums can help. They may also want to maintain a relationship with their child’s teachers to know how their child is faring academically.
Set Clear Expectations
Your child should know what you expect from them at all times. Explain to them how they should behave at all times. Speak to them about every situation and ways they can improve. Take loving but purposeful disciplinary action when they do something wrong. Kids with ADHD may be sensitive to criticism, so discipline should be more supportive than punishing.
Spend Time With Your Child
Create time to talk and relax with your child every day. Your child needs to know you love them and that their condition is not their fault. Children with ADHD may blame themselves when something goes wrong. Compliment their efforts when they do something good. You should help them see the good in themselves by building a positive and loving relationship with them.
Conclusion
ADHD in children is challenging and can have lifelong impacts if not managed adequately. However, with the right combination of medical treatment, behavioral therapy, and parenting, children with ADHD can live rich lives like everyone else.
