ADHD/ADD

Children are commonly known as little balls of energy. It’s a normal part of growing up. However, some children appear to have an overabundance of energy that prohibits them from being able to sit for long periods of time or to focus on schoolwork and other tasks. How can you tell if your hyperactive child is truly hyperactive, or simply in a normal phase of childhood? According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), more than six million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD, as of a survey dated 2016. What exactly is ADHD? ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Although it is commonly seen in children, adults can also show signs of ADHD. A child with ADHD may have difficulty focusing on schoolwork, constantly “fidget,” and/or have uncontrollable impulses. An individual may suffer chronic bouts of the disorder throughout their life. ADHD may stem from a variety of root causes such as dysfunctional relationships, low self-esteem, or victimization at school or at home. Genetics can also play a role in whether a child develops the disorder. If one or more parent has the condition, their offspring may exhibit some of the symptoms of ADHD as children. Brain structure and brain function may contribute to the change in behavior. Researchers are still unclear on what the underlying causes for the disorder might be when it comes to the brain but theorize it is possibly due to chemical imbalances or problems with the neurotransmitters. Unfortunately, parents may feel at fault if their child is diagnosed with ADHD as the public at large points to an undisciplined child out of control. However, there is a myriad of causes, including the physical and emotional ones listed above. Pesticides, food dyes, in utero exposure to alcohol or [...]

If your child is restless, impulsive, and has trouble concentrating, you may jump to the conclusion that he or she has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Read on to better understand ADHD in children. ADHD in children Many little children leap before they look. They run and jump, scream and shout, trip and get up again. They sometimes struggle to hear the directions given on how to complete a task, and even once started, there is no guarantee that they will finish the job. ADHD is different from the very normal stages of emotional and cognitive development children grow through as they age. While symptoms can be noticed earlier, ADHD in children often becomes especially pronounced when the child is faced with change, such as starting school or moving home. ADHD in children is often revealed when the child is unusually active, with the tendency to squirm in his or her seat or fidget with whatever is in front of him or her. Listening to, understanding, and following instructions seem to be abnormally difficult. The child with ADHD is characterized by careless mistakes, being absentminded and forgetful, unorganized, and hyperactive. Most cases of ADHD are recognized when the child is younger than 12 years old, although it can be diagnosed later in life, even as an adult. While the symptoms of ADHD most times get better with age, most adults with ADHD were recognized to have it while children and continue to experience the limitations the condition forces upon them. ADHD can also be seen in seemingly unrelated problems such as trouble sleeping or suffering from anxiety. How to assist children with ADHD It is natural for most children to at times feel restless or bored – and this does not predispose them to ADHD. If you are concerned [...]