What is ADHD?
As one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a continually growing condition among children. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found diagnoses for ADHD increased from 7.8% in 2003 to 11% in 2012. The CDC also reported that approximately 6.4 million children ages 4-7 have been diagnosed with ADHD. ADHD, when left untreated, can impact a child’s emotional, academic and social environments both now and in adulthood. Here is some information regarding ADHD, symptoms, and treatments.
Understanding ADHD in Children
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition of the brain that makes it hard for children to control their behavior. Though most children can display troubling behavior at times, children with ADHD have frequent behavior issues including high activity levels, failing to stay focused long enough to accomplish tasks, and difficulty remaining still for long periods of time. Above all, ADHD can negatively impact life at school, home, and among peers.
These are some signs to look for if you think your child may have ADHD.
The Signs of ADHD in Children
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, common symptoms of ADHD in children may include:
Makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities
Doesn’t listen when directly spoken to
Has trouble organizing tasks and activities and difficulty holding attention on tasks
Easily distracted
Forgetful in daily activities
Squirms in seat/fidgets with or taps hands
Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected
Unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly
Has trouble waiting for his/her turn
Interrupts frequently
Runs and/or climbs in inappropriate situations
What is the treatment for ADHD?
There are numerous ways to properly treat ADHD, but all start with creating a long-term management plan. From medication to parent training, and more, there are various ways to create individual plans for your child suffering from ADHD. The key is to create an ongoing treatment program.
At Well Family, we believe it is important for your child to receive help from a behavioral health care professional as soon as you suspect your child is suffering from ADHD. As such, behavioral interventions at home or school may be used as initial treatment for ADHD and might improve ADHD symptoms in both children and teens. Early identification and treatment can make a world of difference for your child and for your family—today and in the long-term.
ADHD symptoms typically:
Make it difficult to function at school, home, and/or social settings
Start before the age of 7
- Are more severe than in other children that are the same age
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends performing ADHD evaluations in any child aged 4-18 years who presents with academic and/or behavioral problems plus symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.