Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder
It's ADHD* - a medical condition that makes it hard for a person to pay
attention and/or control his or her actions.
*Please note: ADHD is also referred to as ADD - attention
deficit disorder.
- ADHD is usually noticed in childhood, during the early
elementary school years. It may last through adolescence and adulthood.
- It oftens includes overactive behavior, called
"hyperactivity". Parents and teachers often describe a hyperactive child as
one who "just can't sit still".
- It may exist alone or with a learning disabilities (such
as dyslexia - a reading disorder) or communication problems.
A child with ADHD can be a challenge - as well as a joy - at home and in
school.
Return to Top
- Because learning about ADHD - and seeking early diagnosis and treatment -
can make a difference for everyone involved.
- The child, who needs to meet the daily challenges that ADHD brings.
- Family and friends, who need to understand the condition so they can help
the child.
- Teachers and other school personnel, who must learn how to help the child
succeed in school.
Learn what you can do to help a child with ADHD - and help yourself,
too.....
Return to Top
The exact cause is unknown. But many researchers think that ADHD may be:
- Related to a chemical imbalance in the brain. A shortage
of certain chemicals in the brain may interfere with concentration and
attention.
- Inherited. ADHD seems to be more common in children of
parents who have had or still have ADHD.
- Linked with other physical causes. Damage to the brain
(for example, from lead paint) or injury to an unborn child may contribute to
ADHD in rare cases.
- Affected by a child's environment. What happens at home
and at school may make symptoms more (or less) severe.
- ADHD is also more common in boys than in girls.
Return to Top
Only a team of qualified professionals* can say for sure. They must rule out
other causes of the child's behavior and identify several symptoms of ADHD.
Symptoms include:
Poor attention span. The child:
- is easily distracted
- has a hard time following instructions and concentrating
- leaves one unfinished task for another
- doesn't listen
- loses books, pencils or other items often
Weak impulse control. The child:
- has difficulty waiting his or her turn
- acts without thinking
- often interrupts
Hyperactivity. The child:
- fidgets constantly
- has difficutly remaining seated or playing quietly
- talks a great deal
(Some children with ADHD are not hyperactive).
*The team may include a physician, child psychologist, child
psychiatrist and social worker.
Please note: It may be difficult to tell symptoms of ADHD apart from
behavior common to children before age 5.
Return to Top
At home The child may have trouble completing simple
household chores. The child may begin the task, but forget the parent's
instructions and walk away.
At school The child may not be able to sit quietly, wait in
line, listen to instructions or concentrate long enough to finish a project.
In social situations Other children may reject the child
because he or she can't follow the rules of a game, share toys or cooperate.
Children with ADHD often have low self-esteem They think
they are failures. A poor self-image makes it even harder for them to get along
with others.
Return to Top
There is no cure for ADHD, but a combination of treatments can be effective.
Treatment may include:
Behavior modification This involves setting up clear rules
for behavior and a consisten set of rewards and consequences. Behavior
modification helps teach a child how to act.
Counseling The child and the family may benefit from
individual, group or family counseling.
Medication Prescription medications are never the only
treatment. But they do help many children with ADHD. Talk about all risks and
benefits with your child's health-care providers.
Educational planning Schools may adapt regular classroom
programs or provide special education programs for children with ADHD.
Any other problems (such as hearing, vision, speech or emotional problems)
should be treated along with ADHD.
Return to Top
Here are some tips to help:
- Encourage good behavior with words and rewards. Look for positive actions
to praise - even when it's behavior most people take for granted.
- Discourage inappropriate behavior consistently and clearly. Have the child
take "time out" for a few minutes in a quiet place. Then talk about the
problem behavior and way the child can change it.
- Separate the child from the behavior - make it clear that while certain
behavior is unacceptable, you still accept the child. Continue to build
self-esteem by showing your love.
- Be consitent in what you expect. For example, if you don't want your child
to interrupt, don't allow it sometimes and become angry at other times.
- Allow frequent breaks for activity. Like all children, youngsters with
ADHD need regular play and exercise.
- Remain calm in what you say and do. If you can keep yourself under
control, your child may be better able to stay in control, too.
- Plan special time alone with your child regularly.
- Keep things simple by following a daily routine. Also, limit your child's
choices. For example, offer only 2 choices for a game rather than asking,
"What game do you want to play?"
- Work closely with the school to plana consistent approach to behavior and
homework, and to keep track of progress.
Return to Top
You'll be better able to help your child - and enjoy life - if you:
Get plenty of exercise. Try to get 30 minutes or more of moderate physical
activity on most - preferably all - days of the week. Try activities like
walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling. (Consult your health-care provider
before beginning an exercise program).
Get enough sleep. The need for sleep varies. Get enough to feel rested and
refreshed when you awaken.
Learn to reduce stress. Relaxation exercises, deep breathing and other
techniques can help you relax. Make time for activities you enjoy, too.
Return to Top
Taking care of yourself also involves caring for your emotional health.
Talk to trusted friend or relative. Raising a child with ADHD can cause
confusing emotions. It's easy to think you're to blame for your child's
disorder, or that you're the only parent who feels confused or frustrated.
Talk to someone who can provide emotional support.
Join or start a support group. Parents raising children with ADHD can share
practical information on a variety of subjects, including schedules, behaviors
and treatments.
Talking with others who face similar challenges can also be a valuable source
of emotional support.
Return to Top
on children with ADHD. Here are some ways teachers can help:
- Structure classroom time, activities and rules, so the child knows what to
expect. Post a daily calendar of events.
- Be positive - praise appropriate behavior and completed tasks. Praise
helps build self-esteem.
- Be realistic about behavior and assignments. Many children with ADHD can't
sit for long periods or follow detailed instructions. Make learning
interesting with plenty of hands-on activities.
- Monitor behavior through charts that explain expectations and rewards for
reaching goals. These can help the child stay focused.
- Test knowledge and not just the child's ability to take tests. Testing
orally may help.
- Begin a special homework program - daily or weekly reports to parents can
increase the parent's involvement.
- Work closely with parents and members of the education team. People
working together can make a big difference.
Return to Top
Do children outgrow ADHD?
Usually symptoms greatly lessen during adolescence and adulthood. However,
some people with ADHD experience symptoms well into adulthood. Treatment for
ADHD in adults may include some of the same methods used in children.
What about special diets?
For some children, food additives and allegies may play a role in ADHD. Talk
to your health-care provider if you suspect a problem.
Where can I get more information about parent support
groups?
Talk with people in your community (school staff, health-care providers,
etc.). Use local libraries or call:
- CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders)
1-305-587-3700
- National ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association) 1-800-487-2282 or
1-508-462-0495
- Feingold Association (for dietary intervention) 1-800-321-3287
Return to Top
- Learn all you can about ADHD and how it affects children
- Work at home and with teachers to help children with ADHD
- Share your experience with others
Your loving care can help children with ADHD learn and grow!
Fact
Sheet