It is normal for children to often lose interest in the task at hand and jump to something else, or occasionally forget their school work, or to get restless easily. But if your child seems to be repeatedly showing signs of impulsiveness, is hyperactive in a way that is beyond what you would consider acceptable, and is highly inattentive, these may actually be signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) also referred to as Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that appears in early childhood, often before the age of seven. While as a parent, you may be worried about ADHD limiting your child from exploring their potential at school or leading a happy life when they grow, it is important to understand that ADHD can be treated.
The treatment of ADHD typically involves a professional diagnosis of your child’s developmental and psychosocial history, a children’s ADHD assessment, as well as observation of their symptoms and behavioral patterns. Following the assessment, a treatment plan best suited to your child’s individual needs will be created. This plan will include a variety of treatments and therapies. It may or may not include medication, depending on your child’s age, conditions, and needs. By taking this bespoke approach to ADD treatment, Psymplicity helps your child learn how to manage their symptoms effectively, perform better at school, improve their family and social life, and go on to lead a happy, fulfilling adult life.
As a parent, it can be challenging to differentiate between ADHD symptoms and a normal active child. If you feel that your child is showing signs of ADHD at school, at home, or in social situations, you can observe them closely to see if they are exhibiting a significant number of the below symptoms:
- Difficulty sustaining attention
Your child finds it difficult to stay focused during class or while completing an activity, even one they consider fun. - Constantly daydreaming
You often find them staring into space, oblivious to their surroundings, daydreaming. - Easily prone to tantrums
Your child finds it rather difficult to control their emotions, often throwing temper tantrums when they are unhappy with a situation. - Lack of attention to detail
Your child’s schoolwork has a lot of mistakes, and they don’t pay attention to detail while performing most activities. - Easily distracted
Even the smallest of stimuli, like a small noise, can distract your child from any activity that they are doing. - Difficult being organised
Their study desk is always messy, they are unable to organise simple tasks, such as planning out their after school activities, and constantly miss deadlines. - Forgetful
They miss out or forget something regularly, like schoolwork or playdates or even carrying their lunch. - Trouble waiting
They are impatient when it comes to taking turns, and get upset when they need to wait for something, even when they play with other kids. - Constantly interrupting
They lack the ability to be respectful of others’ needs or space, and constantly interrupt conversations or speak over others. - Fidgeting
They are always fidgeting and highly restless, constantly moving around even when they are asked to sit down at their desk. - Avoid tasks that need extended attention
Staying focused in class or participating in an activity that requires them to be attentive for a continuous period of time can be very frustrating for them. - Inability to follow instructions
Following simple straightforward instructions can be overwhelming for them, at school, or at home. - Talks excessively
Your child tends to talk excessively in many different situations and settings. - Inability to play quietly
Your child finds it difficult to play or engage in any leisure activities quietly, and they are normally quite loud, making excessive noises or talking. - Symptoms displayed in more than one environment
Your child is displaying many of these symptoms in more than one environment, such as home and school.
If your child is displaying most of these symptoms, it would be a good idea to speak to a mental health professional who can perform a diagnosis and suggest the appropriate treatment to best help your child cope with their condition. And do remember, ADHD is manageable and your child, with the right care, can grow up to lead a wonderfully healthy and happy life!
