ADHD in Kids . Overall, the diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is prepared, when the fundamental symptoms of ADHD begin in childhood earlier than 12 years of age, and cause significant difficulties both in the home and the school environments on various levels.
However, ADHD does not have any particular test. Therefore, a gauge is possible with both symptoms associated with ADHD and the symptom of a different issue. To make a diagnosis may include:
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Firstly, medical examination may assist in the checking of other causes of symptoms.
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Secondly, information collection involves the medical history of the concerned person, family medical history, and school records.
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Moreover, interviews or surveys are used to collect data using family members, teachers, or other individuals who are well aware of the behaviour of your child like caregivers, babysitters, and coaches. This, in turn, enlists the behavior of your child under different circumstances.
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Finally, ADHD rating scales can be used to gather and evaluate the data on your child.
Diagnosing ADHD in Young Children
In preschoolers or even earlier children, the first signs of ADHD may be observed. However, it is even more difficult to diagnose the ADHD condition in young children. This is mainly because developmental conditions of a child like language delays may be confused with ADHD.
Therefore, children of preschool age or younger who are supposed to have ADHD have higher chances of being tested by a specialist, who may be a psychologist or psychiatrist, speech pathologist, or developmental pediatrician.
Top Things to Remember:
Firstly, ADHD does not always look the same in every child or adolescent. The former primarily experience difficulties with attention, and the latter tend to be more active or hyperactive, or a combination of the two. On the other hand, boys tend to express their ADHD by becoming restless and acting impulsively, whereas girls tend to be quiet, distracted, or daydreaming, making their signs more difficult to detect.
Moreover, ADHD does not only focus on school performance, but even on friendships, feelings, and family life. As a result, children can at times feel self-blameful given that they find themselves in trouble more frequently even where they do not intend to.
Strengths Associated With ADHD:
Meanwhile, there are also certain strengths associated with ADHD. A great number of children with ADHD are highly creative, energized, and full of innovative ideas. Their minds think outside the box, and they can excel in such fields as art, sports, or problem-solving. In addition, sleep difficulties are also frequent, and insomnia may aggravate the symptoms.
Researchers have discovered that brain regions associated with attention and self-control can mature more slowly in children with ADHD but tend to keep up as they age. Therefore, it is essential to understand that ADHD is not a result of poor parenting, but good parenting and support can make a significant contribution.
Finally, ADHD is frequently comorbid with other problems such as anxiety or learning difficulties, and thus appropriate diagnosis and treatment are essential. Through proper assistance, children and adolescents who have ADHD can transform their energy, creativity, and determination into great strengths — and numerous successful individuals worldwide demonstrate this on a daily basis.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a disorder which involves the brain, and it has an impact on the ability of children and teenagers to pay attention, control their movement, and the way they behave. Therefore, youths who have ADHD can be frequent fidgeters, huge reactors, or just cannot wait patiently in a situation.
Treatment normally involves behavior therapy, medication where appropriate, and strong support from both parents and teachers. However, it is not always realized or understood because there are behaviors of ADHD that are similar to normal childhood behavior, especially among young children.
Signs and Symptoms:
Children and teens with ADHD may show difficulties in three main areas: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Moreover, these behaviors can vary depending on the child’s age and situation.
Inattentive behaviors
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Problems with attention or ability to complete tasks.
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Not following instructions or forgetting them.
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Often, they daydream, procrastinate, or become distracted.
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Losing items frequently or forgetting where they kept them.
Hyperactive behaviors
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Constantly, there is fidgeting or restlessness.
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Trouble sitting still or remaining quiet when necessary.
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Being excessively active, climbing or playing roughly in inappropriate contexts.
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Rushing through work and making errors out of haste.
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Sometimes, they bump into others by accident because of restlessness.
Impulsive behaviors
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Speaking out of turn or interrupting others.
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Grabbing, pushing, or acting without considering consequences.
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Struggling to wait in lines or for their turn.
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Doing things without permission or taking unnecessary risks.
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As a result, they may become upset or frustrated quickly.
Other Related Problems
Adolescents and children with ADHD can also experience other problems including learning disabilities, behavior problems, anxiety, or depression. In addition, they are more prone to dangerous behaviors, such as alcohol or drug use, without proper support as they get older.
Other Disorders with Similar Symptoms
Sometimes, medical disorders or treatments can show symptoms similar to ADHD. For example:
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Literacy or language delays.
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Mood disorders such as depression.
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Anxiety disorders.
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Seizure disorders.
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Vision or hearing problems.
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Autism spectrum disorder.
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Medical conditions or drugs that affect thinking or behavior.
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Sleep disorders.
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Brain injury.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A pediatrician may help with suspected ADHD by using questionnaires for parents and teachers to complete an evaluation. Then, they can provide an opinion or refer your child to a mental health specialist for a more comprehensive examination.
Generally, for younger children, the recommended initial treatment method is behavior therapy. Later on, medication may be added if necessary to improve focus and control.
Treatment for ADHD
ADHD is an incurable disorder, but the symptoms can be managed to help children and adolescents perform well at home, at school, and with friends. Sometimes, a combination of various types of support works better than relying on a single method.
Behavior Therapy
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Trains children and adolescents on how to manage their behavior and emotions.
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Moreover, parents and teachers are taught strategies to encourage positive behavior and reduce problem behavior.
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In addition, rewards, routines, and clear rules help children stay on track.
Medication
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Physicians may prescribe drugs (stimulants or non-stimulants) to improve concentration and self-control.
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These medications are useful in reducing hyperactivity and impulsiveness, so children can focus more easily.
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Furthermore, physicians monitor the child closely to adjust doses and observe any side effects.
Parent Support and Training
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Parents learn special skills to help their child cope with ADHD.
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For example, setting routines, giving regular praise, and using calm discipline are very helpful.
School Support
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Teachers may provide extra time for tests, shorter assignments, or a quiet space to improve focus.
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Additionally, some students benefit from individualized learning plans designed to meet their specific needs.
Healthy Lifestyle
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Regular sleep, a balanced diet, and physical activity enhance concentration and reduce stress.
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Moreover, limiting screen time and practicing relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness, can also improve attention and behavior.
Counseling and Therapy
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Counseling can help address self-esteem issues, frustration, or anxiety, which are common in children with ADHD.
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In addition, social skills training teaches children how to make and maintain friendships.
Other Medicines
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The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some non-stimulant medicines to treat ADHD, including:
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Atomoxetine (Strattera)
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Viloxazine (Qelbree)
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Guanfacine (Intuniv)
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Clonidine (Onyda XR)
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Although the FDA does not specifically approve antidepressants, such as bupropion (Aplenzin, Wellbutrin XL, etc.), they can be effective in some cases.
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However, atomoxetine and antidepressants act more slowly than stimulant medications and may require several weeks to show improvement. Nevertheless, they can be a good alternative if a child cannot take stimulants due to health reasons or side effect.