Overview
If your child is consistently having problems at school, relationships or at home you may have suspected ADD/ADHD. Specifically, you might notice a combination of the following symptoms:
- Often behind or under pressure in schoolwork
- Feeling inferior to peers
- Chronic disorganization
- Problems remembering simple things
- Poor grades
- Social isolation/rejection by peers
- Difficulty participating in group events or organized sports
- Anxiety or depression that comes from a compounding of these problems
An accurate diagnosis, a skilled counselor, good medical attention and patience are all critical to provide successful solutions to this problem.
Three Major Symptom Categories of ADD & ADHD
Inattention
This is the most common symptom. In addition to having difficulty paying attention, people with this ADHD symptom often are unable to consistently focus, remember, and organize. They may be careless and have a hard time starting and completing tasks that are boring, repetitive, or challenging.
Impulsiveness
People who frequently act before thinking may not make sound judgments or solve problems well. They may also have trouble developing and maintaining personal relationships. An adult with severe ADD/ADHD may not keep the same job for long or may have great difficulty with impulse spending.
Hyperactivity
A hyperactive child may squirm, fidget, and climb or run when it is not appropriate. These children often have difficulty playing with others. They may talk a great deal and not be able to sit still for even a short time. Teenagers and adults who are hyperactive don’t usually have the more obvious physical behaviors seen in children. Rather, they often feel restless and fidgety, and are not able to enjoy reading or other quiet activities.
Strategies for treatment of ADD & ADHD
CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy)
CBT can help children develop coping strategies, problem-solving skills, and self-regulation techniques to manage their ADHD symptoms. It focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors and replacing them with more positive and adaptive ones.
Lifestyle changes and dietary changes
Encouraging regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet can positively impact children with ADHD. Exercise helps release excess energy and improves focus, while proper sleep and nutrition support overall well-being and brain function.
Medications (stimulant and non-stimulant)
Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate or amphetamines, are often prescribed to manage ADHD symptoms. These medications can help improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and control hyperactivity.
ADHD Treatment is Not Just About Improving Quality of Life
ADHD treatment for children offers much-needed support to address the challenges associated with ADHD. Through medication, behavioral interventions, and therapy, children gain valuable tools and skills to improve their academic performance, enhance organizational abilities, and reduce forgetfulness.
Treatment helps them develop coping strategies and self-regulation techniques crucial for managing their symptoms and succeeding in various aspects of life. With proper treatment, children experience improved focus, impulse control, and overall functioning, enabling them to navigate their daily lives with greater ease and success.
Emotional Benefits of ADHD treatment
ADHD treatment also provides comprehensive support that extends into emotional and mental health benefits. It offers children a sense of validation, helping them understand that their struggles are real and providing strategies and resources to support them emotionally. Children will develop the necessary tools to improve their emotional well-being and build positive relationships.
Treatment fosters healthy development, enhances emotional resilience, and facilitates positive connections with peers and family members, empowering children to navigate their emotions and relationships with greater success. Frustrations and self-doubt transform into hope, resilience, accomplishment, and a belief in their own capabilities.
Parental guidance with ADHD counseling
ADHD treatment not only supports the child but also provides guidance and strategies for parents to better understand and support their child’s needs.
Parents receive support in creating a structured and supportive environment at home and school, enabling their child to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. They learn techniques for setting clear expectations, implementing effective routines, and providing positive reinforcement.
Treatment equips parents with knowledge and skills, strengthening the family unit by fostering greater understanding, empathy, and cohesion. By working together, the family becomes a supportive foundation for the child, facilitating their growth and development in a nurturing and understanding environment.
Next Step
If your child is diagnosed with ADD/ADHD it is important to consider a commitment to treatment. Successful and lasting outcomes will make all the difference not only for your child but your family as a whole.
Call us. We would like to help your child succeed academically, socially and at home.
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