
Navigating ADHD: Understanding Symptoms and Solutions
What is ADHD? ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a developmental condition that affects the brain’s ability to regulate attention and control impulses. What are the Main Signs of ADHD? The signs of ADHD can vary widely from child to child, but they are generally categorized into three main groups: Inattention: Difficulty concentrating, easily distracted, and making careless mistakes. Common signs include: Losing things frequently Forgetfulness Trouble completing tasks Getting easily distracted Making careless mistakes Not seeming to listen Impulsivity: Acting without thinking and interrupting others. Common signs include: Fidgeting Squirming Difficulty sitting still for quiet tasks Running or climbing at inappropriate times Talking excessively or interrupting others Hyperactivity: Excessive energy and difficulty remaining still. Common signs include: Difficulty falling asleep Being overactive Talking too much Typically, ADHD is diagnosed when a child exhibits more than six symptoms from these categories in at least two settings, such as school and home. What Causes ADHD? The exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, and while some people suggest food additives and sugar may play a role, this is not supported by evidence. Recognized causes include: Alcohol consumption or smoking during pregnancy Exposure to certain environmental risks during pregnancy (e.g., lead) Premature birth Brain damage (including abnormalities in neurotransmitters or infections) Low birth weight (less than 3 pounds) What Can We Do About It? Medication Psychostimulants can be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. Consult with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your child. Behavior Modification Alongside medication, adjusting parenting practices can help manage ADHD. Consider the following strategies: Ensure your child gets the appropriate amount of sleep for their age. Monitor for signs of hyperactivity and intervene when necessary. Keep playtime and social interactions brief to help your child maintain self-control. Communicate with your child's teachers and school administrators about their ADHD. They can provide support and help you navigate any special care needed. Encourage regular exercise (30-60 minutes a day) to help manage symptoms. Reference:NHS, (24 December,2021), Symptoms-Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/symptoms/Zilpah Sheikh, (November 15, 2023), ADHD in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-childrenChadd, Parenting a Child with ADHDhttps://chadd.org/for-parents/overview/Melinda Smith, (February 5, 2024), ADHD testing and diagnosis: What you need to knowhttps://www.helpguide.org/articles/add-adhd/diagnosing-attention-deficit-disorder-adhd.htmStephen Brian Sulkes, (Apr 2024), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/learning-and-developmental-disorders/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd?query=ADHDDisclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.