Many symptoms can lead a parent to think his or her child has ADHD. Some symptoms can mask themselves as anxiety or other stresses, but in some cases, the symptoms witnessed due directly correlate with ADHD. ADHD is not the end of the world for your child, but it can be a major issue if it is not addressed. It is extremely important for one’s child to receive the guidance and medication, if necessary, to help him or her function normally. If not, ADHD can cause havoc on school, social and family life.
The article, “Could Your Child Have ADHD?” by Jeremy Sharp takes a closer look at the symptoms and next steps a parent must take to discover if one’s child has ADHD. As a licensed psychologist, he lists the numerous possible outcomes that follow an assessment and the procedures needed to ensure the child receives the care he or she needs. He reassures parents that they are not alone in this process and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. He states,
“As a parent and a child psychologist, I have a lot of empathy for other parents struggling with the question of whether their child may have ADHD. Despite all of the popular media representation and legitimate resources out there, it’s still a challenging question to answer! For all of you trying to figure it out, I hope that this article will offer a little bit of a roadmap to move forward.”
“Could Your Child Have ADHD?”. Jeremy Sharp, PhD. October 14th, 2022. WebMD.
To read the entire article, please access here
Commentary
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder that is characterized by problems with inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Symptoms of ADHD typically begin in childhood and can persist into adulthood. ADHD affects individuals of all ages and from all walks of life, though it is most commonly diagnosed in children. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, though it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Symptoms within children
There are a variety of symptoms that can be seen in children who have ADHD. Some of the more common ones include difficulties with sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, it is important to note that not all children with ADHD will display all of these symptoms. And, the severity of symptoms can vary greatly from child to child. In general, children with ADHD tend to have more difficulty than their peers in completing tasks, following through on instructions, and staying organized.
There are several ways to assess whether a child has ADHD. One common method is to use behavior rating scales. These scales are completed by parents, teachers, and/or other adults who have regular contact with the child. The scales measure symptoms of ADHD across different settings and over time. Another way to assess ADHD is through neuropsychological testing, which can measure attention, impulsivity, and activity level.
Ways to control child ADHD
There are a number of ways to control child ADHD. One way is to use medication. This can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of ADHD. Another way to control child ADHDis to use behavioral therapy. This can help the child learn how to better manage their symptoms. Finally, it is important to provide support and understanding to the child and their family. This can help the child cope with their condition and reduce the impact of ADHD on their life.
There are three types of medication typically prescribed for ADHD: stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Stimulants are the most common type of medication prescribed for ADHD and work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants also increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, but they do so indirectly.
There are numerous benefits of controlling child ADHD. Perhaps most importantly, controlling child ADHD can help improve the overall quality of the child’s life. In addition, it can help the child to better cope with his or her condition and potentially prevent future problems associated with ADHD. Additionally, treating child ADHD can also help to improve academic performance and family functioning. Finally, treating child ADHD can also reduce the risk of future substance abuse and other psychiatric problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to remember that child ADHD is a real and serious condition. It can be difficult for children to cope with and can have a negative impact on their schooling, social life, and family life. There are treatments available that can help children manage their symptoms and lead happy, healthy lives. It is important to consider using assessments for children with ADHD in order to provide the best possible care. These assessments can help identify areas of need and allow for tailored interventions. While there is no one perfect assessment, using a combination of tools can give a well-rounded picture of a child’s strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, these assessments can help children with ADHD reach their full potential. If you think your child may have ADHD, talk to your doctor and see what he or she recommends.
Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting. After completing the courses, qualified professionals can then apply with AIHCP for the certification.
Additional Resources
“ADHD: Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents”. Subcommittee on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Steering Committee on Quality Improvement and Management. Pediatrics (2011) 128 (5): 1007–1022. Access here
“ADHD in Young Children” CDC. Updated Nov. 8, 2018. Vital Signs. Access here
“ADHD in Children”. Help Guide. Updated. Nov 1st, 2022. Access here
“18 Early Warning Signs of ADHD You Can Observe in Your Children”. The Iowa Clinic. May 29th, 2020. The Iowa Clinic. Access here