Will You Pay Attention To the Signs of ADHD?
ADHD: I’m Afraid My Child Has ADHD
Yes, your child is smart! Don’t think other wise! Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, mostly referred to by it’s acronym ADHD, is something parents need to pay attention to because it’s serious.
But, wait, don’t worry! It’s treatable and some very famous people are rumored to have ADHD. Ever hear of Albert Einstein? Yup, he had what some might call a classic case of ADHD. Let’s “break it down“, Justin Timberlake, JT Singer-Actor-Producer-Businessman extraordinaire. Yes, in and interview in 2008 on Collider.com, Justin Timberlake confirmed it for the world. Justin Timberlake replying to a question says: “I have OCD mixed with ADD, you try living with that.”
With his Grammy Awards and Golden Globe Awards 25 other wins and 53 nominations I don’t think ADD or ADHD held him back at all. Do you?
Your child is smart! There is nothing to be afraid about children with ADD or ADHD. He or she can live a very successful and productive life….with some guidance and help.
ADHD: Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity Symptoms
The first step is properly identifying if there is an issue. While adolescents is about growing and experiencing the wonders of the world. It can also be about pushing the limits and it may seem like it’s about pushing buttons, also. But there is a stark difference between deficiency of a child, that of rebelling against authority, mirroring bad habits of a parent’s attitude/action/behavior and/or Symptoms of Hyperactivity.
Step one could be self reflection as parents: are we contributing to the behavior of our child? Are they just acting like we act? It is a very hard pill for any parent to swallow, even harder when the answer is yes. No one said parenting was easy, and some times we get it wrong…Only to see it reflected back in our child’s attitude or behavior (See: Family Support & Prevention Services).
When this factor is eliminated, then the ADHD symptoms don’t blend into behavioral issues identified as a “discipline problems” but they can be looked at overall in three categories.
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity these are the three key behavior factors of ADHD says the The National Institute of Mental Health. Of the list below, a child must have symptoms at least 6 months to a “degree that is greater than other children of the same age” says NIMH.
In other words, each symptom below will and should fit a normal adolescent, at some point in their growing stages, but it mild compared to a child experiencing ADHD symptoms.
Here are some of the following Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity of ADHD, you may see:
Children who have symptoms of hyperactivity may:
- Be easily distracted, miss details, forget things, and frequently switch from one activity to another
- Have difficulty focusing on one thing
- Become bored with a task after only a few minutes, unless they are doing something enjoyable
- Have difficulty focusing attention on organizing and completing a task or learning something new
- Have trouble completing or turning in homework assignments, often losing things (e.g., pencils, toys, assignments) needed to complete tasks or activities
- Not seem to listen when spoken to
- Daydream, become easily confused, and move slowly
- Have difficulty processing information as quickly and accurately as others
- Struggle to follow instructions.
Children who have symptoms of hyperactivity may:
- Fidget and squirm in their seats
- Talk nonstop
- Dash around, touching or playing with anything and everything in sight
- Have trouble sitting still during dinner, school, and story time
- Be constantly in motion
- Have difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities.
Children who have symptoms of impulsivity may:
- Be very impatient
- Blurt out inappropriate comments, show their emotions without restraint, and act without regard for consequences
- Have difficulty waiting for things they want or waiting their turns in games
- Often interrupt conversations or others’ activities.
www.nimh.nih.gov/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder
ADHD: I’m Afraid My Child Has ADHD
Does this sound like your child? Does he or she never can concentrate long enough to read the questions for tests as to get good grades? Do you ever wish your child “would just sit still” and “pay attention.”
These are common concerns for parents with ADHD children. Coping skills for self-control, outlets for energy, and a structured environment to provide organization are a few proven coping tools that are beneficial in reducing symptoms associated with ADHD. We know a one-size-fits-all approach does not apply for all children with ADHD. This is why Charlotte Behavioral Health Care’s Melissa Worthen, LMHC uses in her practice a set schedules that works with families to create individualized routines to provide the needed structure and outlets for success with ADHD children. While empowering caregiver parents and families members.
Need more Info? CONTACT: the Screening Department at 639-8300 for more information.