Attention Deficit

About:

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a neuro-developmental disorder. Meaning, due to atypical/different development of the brain, there are certain deficits in the neuropsychological functioning. Therefore, difficulties are experienced in performing higher mental functions like planning, organising, problem-solving, etc. This condition makes it difficult for kids to control their behaviour. Symptoms of ADHD are most commonly present since childhood, however, it may occur in adolescents or adulthood as well.

For children with ADHD, school too often starts with a big disappointment, and it only goes downhill from there. Almost about 50% of the students repeat a class by adolescence. Around 35% of the children eventually drop out of school, while only 5% complete college.

As per the studies, by the age of eleven, 80% were at least two years behind in reading, writing, spelling, and math. Even children with normal to superior intelligence show ‘chronic and severe underachievement’. Unusually high suspension and expulsion rates further compromise school achievement and completion. No, you are not alone! ADHD affects almost 4-12% of school-going kids.

Symptoms:

Inattention:

– Difficulty in regulating attention, day-dreaming

– Easily distracted and inability to filter out stimuli

– Difficulty in persisting with boring routine tasks

– Leaving tasks unfinished, overlooking details

– Losing or forgetting things frequently

Impulsivity:

– Difficulty in processing consequences to their behaviour

– Blurting out answers or saying things without thinking

– Difficulty in taking turns, difficulty in waiting

– Frequently interrupting others

– Risk-taking

Hyperactivity:

– In constant motion

– As if driven by a motor

– Excessive fidgetiness or not being able to engage in activities quietly

– Talking excessively

– Disruptive classroom/ group behaviour

Types:

– Inattentive Type: Primary complaints of poor attention and high distractibility. They are usually not excessively active or disruptive.

– Hyperactive Type: Show both hyperactivity and impulsivity in behaviour however do not have much trouble in paying attention.

– Combined Type: Features of all the three symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity are present. It is the most common type of ADHD.

Causes:

– Genetically present (i.e. runs in the family)

– Biological disorder

– Lower activities in parts of the brain that control attention & activity levels

– Premature birth increases the risks of developing ADHD

– Alcohol, smoking to the baby while in the womb may increase risks

How to recognize?

Possible consequences if left untreated:

– Poor academic performance and risk of dropping out of school/college

– Behavioural and disciplinary problems

– Risk of abuse to alcohol and other drugs

– Risk-taking behaviours (illegal acts)

– Accidents and injuries

– Depression, anxiety and other mental health problems

– Frequent loss/change in jobs

What are the treatment options?

– Medication (includes methylphenidate, atomoxetine) that help to balance the chemicals in the brain that are essential for effective functioning

– Occupational Therapist, Special Educator plays a big role to manage their sensory, motor, kinaesthetic, inattention, and sitting problems

– Psychological Therapies including Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour therapy and neuropsychological training to help in developing better attention, concentration abilities, developing better skills of problem-solving, impulse-control, time management, organisation and planning along with managing poor self-esteem, depression, and anxiety

– Proper parenting skills are needed for learning effective management strategies

Parenting tips for ADHD kids:

1. Stay positive
2. Encourage exercising
3. Break tasks down
4. Reduce distraction
5. Introduce wait time
6. Calm down