ADHD is a common behavioral disorder that affects an estimated 8% to 10% of school-age children. Boys are about three times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with it, though its not yet understood why. Kids with ADHD act without thinking, are hyperactive, and have trouble focusing. They may understand whats expected of them but have trouble following through because they cant sit still, pay attention, or attend to details. Of course, all kids (especially younger ones) act this way at times, particularly when theyre anxious or excited. But the difference with ADHD is that symptoms are present over a longer period of time and occur in different settings. They impair a childs ability to function socially, academically, and at home. The good news is that with proper treatment, kids with ADHD can learn to successfully live with and manage their symptoms. Symptoms ADHD used to be known as attention deficit disorder, or ADD. In 1994, it was renamed ADHD and broken down into three subtypes, each with its own pattern of behaviors: 1. An inattentive type, with signs that include: inability to pay attention to details or a tendency to make careless errors in schoolwork or other activities: difficulty with sustained attention in tasks or play activities apparent listening problems difficulty following instructions problems with organization avoidance or dislike of tasks that require mental effort tendency to lose things like toys, notebooks, or homework distractibility forgetfulness in daily activities 2. A hyperactive-impulsive type, with signs that include: fidgeting or squirming difficulty remaining seated excessive running or climbing difficulty playing quietly always seeming to be on the go excessive talking blurting out answers before hearing the full question difficulty waiting for a turn or in line problems with interrupting or intruding 3. A combined type, which involves a combination of the other two types and is the most common Although it can be challenging to raise kids with ADHD, its important to remember they arent bad, acting out, or being difficult on purpose. And they have difficulty controlling their behavior without medication or behavioral therapy.
Posted on: Mon, 01 Dec 2014 07:41:55 +0000