ADHD, commonly known as Attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental order often noticed during childhood. It sets about in childhood and persists into adulthood. The individual suffering through this might have low self-esteem, troubled relationships, tends to daydream, has difficulty paying attention and so much more to it.
Causes of ADHD
While the reason still remains unknown what gives rise to ADHD, there are a few factors which are to be considered as the root of the problem:
Genetics: Genetics play an important role in contributing to the causes of ADHD. If the mother or father has been diagnosed with ADHD, the child has a 50 % chance to adapt to it, although it's not necessary to inherit it 100 %.
Exposure to harmful substances: Smoking and the use of alcohol during pregnancy can be one of the major reasons why ADHD is a problem. Studies point out that the intake of such substances causes an increase in the chances of developing ADHD in future.
Certain Injuries: It has been found that brain injuries, even if less, elevate the chances of acquiring ADHD. Moreover, illnesses such as meningitis (swelling/inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain or the spinal cord) or encephalitis ( inflammation of the brain often due to an infection ) can lead to issues in learning and attention.
Nevertheless, the causes of ADHD have been misunderstood by parenting styles, playing video games or even poverty for that matter.
How do I know if I’m Suffering From ADHD?There are two main features of ADHD – Inattention and Hyperactivity-impulsivity. Children who are inattentive find it hard to keep their minds on one thing, they are unable to concentrate, easily get distracted, are forgetful, do not follow instructions and so on. Children who are impulsive seem unable to control their immediate reactions or to think before they act. They have difficulty delaying gratifications or resisting immediate temptations. Children with ADHD cannot sit still in one place, they tend to be in motion constantly. They may rush through things and make careless mistakes.
How to be Medically Certain?
Like other mental disorders–Depression, anxiety or even eating disorders, ADHD can also not be detected with a single test since it might have similar symptoms to other disorders.
How to Treat it?
The first question that enters the mind after getting diagnosed with ADHD is “what to do now” or “how to go about from here”. Well, ADHD can be managed if treated properly. It would require constant monitoring of the parents and special attention from the teachers as well. To start with, getting an appointment with a psychologist or a therapist will be the first step toward treating ADHD. Behaviour Therapy is seen as an effective way of coping with children who have been diagnosed with ADHD. This also includes training for parents. Moreover, medications are another way to minimise the effect of ADHD.
It has been said that for children with age groups 6 or below, behaviour therapy is used while for the children with age groups 6 or older, behaviour therapy with training for parents and medications is used altogether.
It is the Support of the Parents that Matters at the End of the DayThere are a few tips that will help with the child’s behaviour:
Break down complicated tasks into simpler and short functions so that it does not stress them further.
Instead of yelling or scolding, try to make them understand the concept of what consequences will a situation give to a particular reaction.
Children with ADHD find it hard to focus on particular things or find a few situations stressful. Find what they enjoy and encourage them to do such activities. This leads to creating positive experiences.
A healthy lifestyle is the most important attribute to be kept in mind. A nutritious aNd healthy diet is necessary for children suffering from ADHD.
Last but not the least, It’s the collective efforts that lead to more extensive results; for all, they are asking for help them.
Written by: Jiya Gurnani
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