If your child is easily distractible, has difficulty paying attention, and is always on the go, he or she may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although it’s one of the most common childhood disorders, ADHD can be tough to spot. Most kids are naturally energetic and easily distracted. And many kids go through phases when their behavior is a little more fidgety than usual. So how can you tell if your child’s behavior is just a phase or something more?
This article will provide an overview of ADHD, including its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. We’ll also offer some tips on coping with ADHD.
I. What Is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a mental disorder characterized by focusing issues, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD is one of the most common childhood mental disorders that can persist into adulthood. It is estimated that about 11% of school-aged children have ADHD. Boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls (13.2% vs. 5.6%).
II. Warning Signs of ADHD
While ADHD can be a challenge for any child, it is important to remember that all children are different and that not all children with ADHD will have the same symptoms.
Some children with ADHD may only have problems with focus. For instance, nearly 2 to 3 out of every 10 children with ADHD have trouble focusing while not being hyperactive or impulsive.
Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is the name given to this type of ADHD. Because the symptoms of ADD are not always visible, it is possible that it goes unnoticed sometimes.
Girls are more likely to have ADD than boys, and are less likely to exhibit disruptive behavior, which highlights ADHD symptoms. As a result, girls with ADHD may not always be diagnosed.
1. Signs of Inattentiveness (ADD)
- Difficulty paying attention and being easily distractible
- Making reckless mistakes, especially in schoolwork
- Frequently losing things
- Trouble staying focused on or completing important time-consuming tasks
- Inability to listen to or execute instructions
- Constantly switching activities or tasks
- Having trouble organizing tasks
2. Signs of Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness
- Constantly Fidgeting or squirming
- Having difficulty concentrating on a task
- Being hyperactive or always on the go
- Constantly talking
- Being impulsive or acting without thinking
- Difficulty staying still and seated particularly in quite surroundings
- Having trouble waiting for their turn
- Frequently disturbing conversations
- Having little or no sense of risk
All these signs can lead to serious problems in a child’s life, such as low academic performance, poor social connection with other kids and adults, in addition to discipline issues.
III. ADHD-Related Issues
Although this is not usually the case, some kids may show symptoms of additional issues along with ADHD, such as:
- Anxiety
Leads your kid to be anxious and worried most of the time; it may also trigger some physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and dizziness.
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Characterized by inappropriate behavior, especially towards authority figures including both parents and teachers.
- Conduct disorder
Characterized by a strong tendency towards severe antisocial behavior, including stealing, fighting, vandalism, and hurting humans or animals.
- Depression
- Sleep Issues
Includes difficulty falling asleep at night and having unpredictable sleep habits.
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder or ASD
Impacts social interaction, communication, preferences, and attitude.
- Dyspraxia
Hampers muscular coordination.
- Epilepsy
A neurological disorder that produces repetitive fits or seizures.
- Tourette’s Syndrome
A neurological disorder characterized by unmanageable noises and movement patterns (tics).
- Dyslexia and other learning disabilities
IV. Causes of ADHD
The actual cause of (ADHD) is still undetermined, however a mix of factors is likely to be involved.
1. Genetic
Across most cases, it’s believed that the genes you acquire from your parents have a key role in developing ADHD especially since it tends to run in families.
According to research, those with ADHD are more likely to have parents or siblings who also have the disorder.
However, the inheritance of ADHD is believed to be complex, and it is not assumed to be caused by a single genetic defect.
2. Brain Structure and Function
A few probable variations in the brains of persons with ADHD to those without the illness have been uncovered by research, while the exact importance of these variations remains unclear.
Brain scan tests, for instance, have revealed that specific parts of the brain in people with ADHD might be smaller, while others might be larger.
Other studies have found that patients with ADHD may have an imbalance in neurotransmitter levels in the brain, or that these chemicals might not be functioning efficiently.
3. At-Risk Groups
Certain persons are also thought to be more vulnerable to ADHD, including:
- Who were born before the 37th week of pregnancy or with a low birthweight
- With epilepsy
- With a significant brain damage – which occurred either in the womb or because of a serious head injury later in life
V. Diagnosis of ADHD
If you are anxious about your child, it may be helpful to talk to their teachers, before visiting a GP, to see if they have any issues regarding their behavior.
Although the GP cannot formally diagnose ADHD, they can talk with you about your worries and, if necessary, recommend you for a specialist assessment.
A GP may ask you about:
- Your child’s symptoms
- When did these symptoms begin
- Where do they occur (at home or in school)
- Whether the symptoms interfere with your child’s daily life (if they make it difficult for them to socialize for instance)
- Whether there have been any recent big changes in your child’s life, such as a death or divorce.
- Whether there’s a family history of ADHD
- Whether there are any other issues or symptoms of various health conditions your child may be experiencing
In case the GP suspects your child has ADHD, they might recommend a 10-week period of “watchful waiting” to see if your child’s symptoms disappear, remain the same, or become worse.
They might even advise starting a group-based, ADHD-focused parent education or training program. Being offered a parent education and training program does not necessarily mean that you’re a bad parent; rather, it is designed to teach you how to help yourself and your kid.
If your child’s behavior doesn’t improve at all and both you and the doctor agree it is interfering with their daily lives, the doctor should refer you and your kid to a specialist for a detailed assessment and accurate diagnosis.
This specialist could either be a psychiatrist, a pediatrician or a qualified healthcare professional with training and expertise in ADHD diagnosis, depending on your child’s age and what is accessible in your area.
As for the assessment, there is no single test that can determine whether your child has the disease or not, however, it might include the following:
- A physical examination to help exclude other potential causes of the symptoms
- Several interviews with the child
- Several reports or interviews with you as the parents or your kid’s teachers
Diagnosing children with ADHD depends on a set of strict standards. For instance, your child must show six or more signs of inattentiveness/hyperactivity or impulsiveness. Add to that, they should have:
- Been showing signs regularly for at least six months.
- Began to show signs prior to the age of 12
- Been showing signs in at least two different environments (home and school), to exclude the likelihood that the attitude is simply a reaction to specific teachers or to strict parental control
- Signs that significantly complicate their lives on a social or educational level
- Signs that aren’t the result of a developmental disorder or a difficult phase and are not better addressed by another condition
VI. Treatment of ADHD
While there is no cure for ADHD, there are treatments that can help lessen symptoms making the condition less of an annoyance in daily life.
ADHD can either be treated with medication or therapy, yet a combination of the two is often most effective.
Treatment is normally coordinated by a specialist, like a pediatrician or psychiatrist, whereas the condition may be monitored by a general practitioner.
1. Medicine
For the treatment of ADHD, 5 different types of medication are approved:
- Methylphenidate
- Dexamfetamine
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Guanfacine
- Atomoxetine
Although not a cure for ADHD, these medications may improve concentration, reduce impulsivity, enhance calmness, and make an ADHD child more able to learn and practice new skills.
Some medications must be taken every day, while others can only be taken on school days. Treatment breaks are sometimes advised to determine whether the medicine is still required.
If your child is given one of these medications, they’ll most likely start with small doses that will gradually increase. Your child will need to see a GP on a regular basis to make sure that the treatment is working properly and to look for warning signs of any side effects or problems.
It is critical to notify your GP of any side effects and to consult with them if you believe your child needs to stop or change your treatment.
The specialist will explain how long your child should receive treatment, yet in many cases, it is given if it is still effective.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication. It is a central nervous system stimulant that works by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain which play an important role in controlling attention and behavior. Methylphenidate can be prescribed to ADHD kids over the age of 5 and is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, extended-release tablets, and an oral solution. It is also available as the brand-name drugs Ritalin, Concerta, Methylin, and Aptensio XR.
Among the most common Methylphenidate side effects are:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Loss of appetite, and consequently loss of weight or poor weight gain
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Aggression
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a medication that stimulates specific areas of the brain. It helps to focus attention, boosts concentration, and lessens impulsive behavior.
Lisdexamfetamine comes in capsule form, and it may be given to ADHD kids over the age of 5 if a methylphenidate treatment of about 6-weeks did not help.
Among the most common Lisdexamfetamine side effects are:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Loss of appetite, and consequently loss of weight or poor weight gain
- Aggression
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is like Lisdexamfetamine in its action. It is known to increase alertness, reduce fatigue, and improve concentration.
The medication can be prescribed to ADHD kids over the age of 5, and is typically prescribed in pill form, but it can also be administered as a patch or an oral solution.
Among the most common Dexamfetamine side effects are:
- Loss of appetite, and consequently loss of weight or poor weight gain
- Mood swings
- Aggression
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine increases the level of norepinephrine in the brain. This chemical is important for focus, attention, and motivation. Atomoxetine is available as a generic or brand-name medicine. It’s a capsule that can be given to children over the age of 5 if it’s not possible to use Lisdexamfetamine or Methylphenidate.
Among the most common Atomoxetine side effects are:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Dizziness
- General fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea
- vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- suicidal thoughts
- Liver damage
N.B. It’s important to speak to your doctor if you notice your child becoming depressed or suicidal while taking this medication.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is thought to work by decreasing the amount of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, in the brain to improve attention. Guanfacine is given to kids over the age of 5 in tablets form and is available as a generic medicine and as the brand-name medicine “Intuniv”.
Among the most common Guanfacine side effects are:
- General fatigue
- Headache
- Abdominal ache
- Dry mouth
2. Therapy
Different therapies, in addition to medication, can be beneficial in the treatment of ADHD in children. Additional issues that may accompany ADHD, such as conduct or anxiety disorders, can be effectively treated through therapy as well.
The following are some possible treatments:
- Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is a therapy that helps kids with ADHD learn about their disorder and how to manage it. This therapy can help kids understand their symptoms. It can also help kids learn about healthy coping mechanisms and how to stick to their treatment plan.
- Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapy helps caregivers of kids with ADHD and may include teachers in addition to parents. It typically entails behavior management, that uses a reward system to motivate your child to try to control their ADHD.
If your child has ADHD, you can decide what behaviors you really like to encourage (such as eating at the table). Your child is then rewarded with a small reward for their good behavior.
As for teachers, behavior management entails learning how to structure and plan activities as well as how to recognize and reward students for even the smallest achievements.
- Parental Education and Training Programs
If your child has ADHD, specially designed parent education and training programs can assist you in learning specific ways to communicate, play and work with your child to help enhance their attention and attitude.
You might also be given parent training prior to your child receiving any formal diagnosis.
These programs are normally organized in groups of 10 to 12 parents. A typical program consists of 10 to 16 meetings that could last up to 2 hours each.
Being given the option to participate in a parent education and training program does not indicate that you are a bad parent; rather, it aims to teach parents and caregivers about behavior management while boosting confidence in your capacity to support your child and strengthen your bond.
- Social Skills Training
In social skills training, your child will participate in role-playing exercises which teach them how to act in social situations by understanding how their actions affect other people.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps children with ADHD learn how to manage their symptoms. CBT teaches kids how to recognize and change the negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their ADHD. CBT is usually provided in weekly sessions, individually or in a group, by a trained therapist. It may also be combined with medication to help kids with ADHD manage their symptoms.
3. Other Potential Types of Treatment
Other methods of treating ADHD which some people find beneficial include avoiding specific foods and taking supplements. Nevertheless, there is no conclusive evidence that these work, and they must not be tried without medical supervision.
- Diet
Some people could see a connection between food types and worsening ADHD symptoms. If this is the scenario, keep a journal of what your child eats and drinks, in addition to the behavior that results. Consult your GP, who might just refer you to a dietitian.
- Supplements
Although there is little proof to back up this, some studies have indicated that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplements could be helpful for people with ADHD.
It’s best to consult your doctor before taking any supplements, as some can interfere with medication or contribute to making it less effective.
You must also keep in mind that some supplements shouldn’t be taken for an extended period because they can build up to dangerous levels in the body.
VII. Advice for Parents
If you have an ADHD child:
- Ascertain that your GP or specialist assists you in distinguishing between ADHD and any other issues your child might have.
- Consider who else should be aware of your child’s condition, such as their school or nursery.
- Learn about the potential side effects of any medications your child is taking and what to look out for.
- Communicate with people at nearby support groups as it’ll help you cope and prevent feelings of isolation.
VIII. Ways to Cope
Living with ADHD can be incredibly hard since the symptoms can make daily tasks much more challenging.
It is critical to seek the help you need to comprehend and cope with your child’s ADHD.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that a child with ADHD cannot control their behavior, even though it can be challenging at times. Kids with ADHD may struggle to restrain their impulsive actions, making them less likely to think things through or weigh the potential outcomes before acting.
The following advice might be useful if you’re raising a child with ADHD
1. Have a Clear Daily Plan
When it comes to managing ADHD, one of the most important things that parents can do is to establish a daily routine for their children. This means setting aside time for homework, chores, meals, and outdoor activity, and sticking to it as much as possible. Having a daily routine, providing visual aids to help the child understand what is expected of them, and breaking down tasks into smaller steps can help kids with ADHD stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the day’s tasks.
2. Set Clear and Firm Boundaries
As a parent of a child with ADHD, it is important to set clear boundaries to help your child focus and stay on track. Try to avoid setting too many rules at once, as this can be overwhelming for your child. Instead, focus on a few key areas that you would like to see improve, such as homework or bedtime routines. Be consistent with your expectations and follow through with consequences if your child does not meet the expectations. Help your child to understand why it is important to follow the rules by explaining how it will improve their life. Finally, be patient and remember that it takes time for children with ADHD to learn and change their behavior.
3. Give Specific and Clear Praise
For example, rather than simply saying “good job,” try “good job staying on task during your math lesson.” This way, the child knows exactly what they did that you’re praising them for. Additionally, be sure to praise the effort that the child is putting in, rather than just their results. This will help them to feel motivated to continue putting in the same level of effort, even when things are challenging.
4. Give Clear Instructions
If you are giving instructions to kids with ADHD, it is important to be clear and concise. Give one instruction at a time, and make sure the kids understand what they need to do before moving on to the next thing. Never hesitate to repeat the instructions as necessary, write down the instructions or have a visual aid to help the kids follow along. Be patient and try to keep things as calm as possible – getting too worked up will only make the situation worse.
5. Have a Rewards System
Create your own rewards system with a points or stars chart so that good behavior can earn a reward. For instance, good behavior during a trip to the supermarket would earn your child time on the computer or their favorite video game.
Allow your child to participate in the process and let them suggest the rewards.
Note that these charts need to be updated from time to time so that they don’t become boring. Goals should be daily, weekly, and monthly while focusing on no more than 1-2 behaviors at a time.
6. Make an Early Intervention
be alert for warning signs. Play an active role once you find your child frustrated, overwhelmed, or about to lose track.
If possible, redirect your child’s attention away from the situation. It might help in calming them down.
7. Effective social situations
It’s important to keep your kid’s social situations short and nice. These situations can help them practice social skills and learn how to interact with other kids without losing their self-control. Avoid doing this when you find your child tired or hungry or after a long day at school.
8. Exercise
Involve your child with several physical activities during the day. Playing sports can help to improve concentration, energy levels, mood, and quality of sleep. Add to that, it can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Finally, it can help to improve overall health and well-being.
9. Eating
Monitor your child’s diet carefully. If your child becomes hyperactive after eating particular foods which might contain additives or caffeine, keep a journal of these so that you seek advise from your GP.
10. Bedtime
Maintain a routine. Ensure that your child sleeps and wakes up at the same time each day.
When it’s close to bedtime, stay away from overstimulating activities like computer games and TV.
11. Late at night
ADHD and sleep issues can interact negatively. ADHD can cause insomnia, which can in turn worsen the symptoms.
Many kids with ADHD have irregular sleep patterns and frequently get up after being put to bed. To assist your child and make bedtime less of a struggle, try a sleep-friendly routine.
12. Help with schoolwork
Children with ADHD frequently have behavioral issues at school, a thing that can have a negative impact on their academic development.
Talk to your child’s teachers or the special educational needs coordinator (SENCO) at their school and discuss any additional support your child may require.
It’s your turn now… tell us about your own experience with your ADHD child and what methods you have used to cope with the challenging symptoms of this disorder
