Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD ) affects children predominantly in three areas: the control of their impulses, the ability to focus their attention and, in some cases, the ability to control their motor activities or movement. It is believed that about three per cent of the population is affected by ADHD.
It is also three times more likely to affect boys than girls.
Types of ADHD
Predominantly inattentive: this is where the child has major difficulty in sustaining attention and is easily distracted.
Predominantly hyperactive impulsive: activity level is the key to diagnosis, as it focuses on the child who needs to be constantly ‘on the go’. Continuous movement and inability to sit for sustained periods will severely hamper the child’s ability to concentrate.
Combined ADHD: this child displays hyperactivity, inattention, and distractibility.
One of the things that can be confusing is that all children are inattentive and on the go at times, and this does not necessarily mean they have a disorder. It should become a concern only when problems persist and are pronounced.
Effects of ADHD
The disorder can have negative consequences for the child and his family. The obvious areas that are affected are family relationships and the ability to make and keep friends. Concentration and learning are also hampered, as a child’s ability to manage in a classroom situation is impaired.
Children who have ADHD do not necessarily have learning problems. Often they are of average or above-average intellectual ability.
However, many don’t do well in school due to problems with concentration, activity level, and sustaining attention. This can lead to missed crucial learning experiences, forgetfulness, and general disorganisation. The child may become disheartened and may be bullied by peers.
Causes of ADHD
It is now accepted that there is a genetic link in ADHD. However the exact nature of this link is not yet known. It is also established that there are underlying neurological differences in the brains of those with ADHD. Research is still ongoing and a lot more information is needed before we can say definitively what causes the disorder.
Treatment options
There are four main treatment options, depending on the child’s particular mix of difficulties and the parents’ priorities, as follows.
Medication: this makes the child more alert and able to sustain concentration for longer. Some children respond better to medications than others.
Behaviour therapies: this looks at trying to change a child’s behaviour by setting up a system of rewards for good behaviour. Key here is developing a comprehensive system tailored to the individual child, and training parents and teachers to implement it.
Cognitive therapy: this teaches the child problem-solving skills so he can develop his self-control. This requires a high degree of motivation from the child but, under the right conditions, can be very successful.
Dietary intervention: while special diets are not as successful in treating ADHD as were first claimed, there are definitely some children who react negatively to certain foodstuffs. Cow’s milk, wheat, flour, citrus fruits, and food dyes are among the most commonly incriminated foods.
In most cases, a combination of treatments is usually considered the best option. The decision in terms of the best treatment options for individual children should be based on a comprehensive assessment and in partnership with the child’s parents.
If you are worried that your child may have ADHD, the first thing you need to do is speak with your GP. If it’s appropriate, the doctor will refer you to the specialist team with responsibility for your area. ADHD is usually diagnosed by a paediatrician, a child psychiatrist, or a psychologist.
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