What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by dysfunction in several parts of the brain involved in cognitive or sensorimotor functions. Simply put, the brain finds it difficult to focus on tasks or think ahead.
ADHD can be present in children from birth, but the symptoms become visible once they are older. That is because behaviors related to the disease are difficult to separate from normal children’s behavior.
However, while most children grow out of them, they persist in children with ADHD. If you are worried your kid has ADHD, here are the signs to watch out for.
Two Types of Behavioral Issues
All child Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder symptoms are divided into two types of issues with behavior, which are inattentiveness and hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Children could exhibit symptoms related to both issues or just one of them.
To help you check if your kid has ADHD, here are the symptoms related to each behavioral issue. You can watch out for them and make informed decisions about future treatment if necessary.
Inattentiveness (difficulty concentrating and focusing)
- Becoming easily distracted
- making easily avoidable mistakes
- Frequently losing things
- Unable to focus on time-consuming tasks
- Having difficulty listening and following instruction
- Constantly switching activities
- Poor task management skills
Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness
- inability to sit still, especially in calm surroundings
- Fidgeting too often
- Severe difficulty concentrating on tasks
- Too much physical movement
- Too much talking
- Unable to patiently wait their turn
- Acting without logical thought
- Interrupting conversations
- Weak sense of danger
What to Do if You Notice Symptoms of ADHD In Your Child
If you’ve noticed these signs or behavior on several occasions and are worried your child might have ADHD, here’s what you can do:
Talk to a Pediatrician
The first step you should take is to arrange a visit with your child’s pediatrician. Paediatricians are the front-line defense you visit first, before any specialists. Have a detailed chat with them about the symptoms you’ve noticed, and let them observe your child’s behavior.
They will let you know if your concerns carry any weight and if you should continue investigating or if you should go to a specialist. They can help by recommending one to you as well.
Take your Child for an Evaluation
If the pediatrician recommends it, take your child for an ADHD evaluation. Specialists, usually psychiatrists, will observe your child’s behavior by conducting a series of tests to check if they have ADHD. Sometimes, it takes several visits before a diagnosis can be confirmed.
Ask Their School to Assess Them
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, you must take on a more proactive role in their education. ADHD is related to performing poorly at school, so ask your child’s school to assess your child and suggest learning accommodations if necessary.
Treatment
If your child gets a diagnosis, then it’s time to start treatment. While there is no cure for ADHD, people who suffer from the disease can unlearn habits and be given tools to help them function better in society.
For example, following a tight schedule, getting enough exercise, and keeping a notebook on you helps you avoid many ADHD-related issues. Your child can learn how to manage their condition from an early age with child-applied behavioral therapy.
