(All information directly from the CHADD fact sheet)
AD/HDis a neurodevelopment disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
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Warning signsSymptoms can be hard to distinguish from the behaviors typical for kids of a given age. Children with ADHD will exhibit many of the behaviors below. ADHD can present itself as mild, moderate, or severe.
1. ADHD predominantly inattentive presentationa. Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.
b. Has difficulty sustaining attention. c. Does not appear to listen. d. Struggles to follow through with instructions. e. Has difficulty with organization. f. Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort. g. Loses things. h. Is easily distracted. i. Is forgetful in daily activities. 2. ADHD predominantly hyper-activity-impulsive presentationa. Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in chair.
b. Has difficulty remaining seated. c. Runs about or climbs excessively or is extremely restless. d. Difficulty engaging in activities quietly. e. Acts as if driven by a motor. f. Talks excessively. g. Blurts out answers before questions have been completed. h. Difficulty waiting or taking turns. i. Interrupts or intrudes upon others. 3. ADHD combined presentationThe individual meets the criteria for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsive ADHD presentations.
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TreatmentADHD in children often requires a comprehensive approach to treatment that includes the following:
1. Parent and child education about diagnosis and treatment.
2. Parent training in behavior management techniques. 3. Medication. 4. School programming and accommodations. 5. Child and family therapy to address personal or family stress concerns. |