ADHD – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children

ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be considered as a neurodevelopmental disorder that normally appears in early childhood, usually before the age of 7. It’s a normal thing for children to forget their homework, day dream during class, act without thinking or get fidgety at the dinner table. But inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity are also signs of ADHD. We can see children who can’t sit still, who don’t follow the instructions, these children labeled as troublemakers or criticized for being lazy and undisciplined. But they have ADHD.

There are some myths and facts about ADHD.

Myth: Kids with ADHD can never pay attention.

Fact: Children with ADHD are often able to concentrate on activities they enjoy. But no matter how hard they try, they have trouble maintaining focus.

Myth: All kids with ADHD are hyperactive.

Fact: some children with ADHD are hyperactive but many others with attention problems are not.

Myth: Kids with ADHD could behave better if they wanted to.

Fact: They try to do their best to be good. But still be unable to sit, stay quiet, or pay attention. This cannot be named disobedient. They don’t act out on purpose.

Myth: Medication is the best treatment option for ADHD.

Fact: not only medication, effective treatment for ADHD includes education, behavior therapy, support at home and school, and proper nutrition.

There are some positive effects of ADHD in children.

1. Creativity – children who have ADHD can be very creative and imaginative. They can become master problem solvers also they may have a fountain of ideas. Also, they notice what others don’t notice.

2. Flexibility – they are more open to different ideas.

3. Enthusiasm – children with ADHD are rarely boring. They are interested in a lot of different things.

4. Energy and drive – when kids with ADHD are motivated, they work hard to succeed.

If a child has symptoms of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity does not mean that they have ADHD. There are certain medical conditions, psychological disorders, and stressful life events that can cause symptoms that look like ADHD. Learning disabilities such as problems with reading, writing, motor skills, or language, psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and some medical conditions including thyroid problems, neurological conditions, epilepsy, sleep disorders are the other possibilities of ADHD.

So as a result of ADHD, Children will struggle in school, get into trouble easily. These difficulties can lead to low self-esteem as well as stress for the whole family. But the treatment can make difference in children with ADHD. With the right support a child can get on track for success in all areas of life because life with a child with ADHD Can be frustrating and overwhelming, but as a parent, there is a lot they can do to help control symptoms and overcome daily challenges. It brings greater calm to their family as well.

Article by: Ayesha Udawaththa