ADHD in a nutshell

3-5% of the world’s under-19 population faces Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD). ADHD is a neurobehavioral developmental disorder and requires a differential diagnosis based on the criteria set out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual – IV ( DSM-IV). A clinical definition for ADHD was only derived in the mid 20th century. Over the past century, the definition and identification criteria for ADHD have undergone much change. It will continue to evolve but generally a consensus has been reached for a general description of ADHD as being characterized by hyperactivity-impulsivity and/or inattention.

There are several different causes for ADHD but generally about 80% of cases face causes that are genetic in nature. What this means is, the behavioral difficulties faced by individuals with ADHD are real and beyond their control and not simply actions they consciously do.

Research in the US has also produced a link between ADHD symptoms and additives used in food. According to studies carried out by the McCann et al (2007), about “90% of children react when an appropriate amount of additives are used as a challenge in double blind tests in food and these food additives may elicit hyperactive behavior and /or irritability in normal children as well.”

ADHD and ADD sometimes co-exist with other learning difficulties such as specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia. When the specific learning difficulty is addressed and remediated using appropriate intervention techniques, it has been known that the classical symptoms of ADD or ADHD reduce and in some cases even disappear.

There are many ways of dealing with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity. Alternative therapies such as sensory integration while highly controversial, have been known to aide with the reduction of symptoms of hyperactivity. Typical treatment of ADHD is to consult with a child psychiatrist so that, they can administer medication to impulsivity in children and to help them calm down in order to focus especially in the school setting. While very effective, in some situations, the children have been known to respond negatively to medication. In this instance, parents are advised to immediately re-visit the psychiatrist so that the case can be re-evaluated and appropriate changes can be made whether it is to the dosage or to the medication itself. Common drugs used in the treatment of ADHD include, Ritalin and Concerta. Other newer drugs may be available but this must be checked with the attending physician. Some drugs are quick release while others are slow release. These make a difference especially when the child is attending full day school and may not be mature enough to take the medication as prescribed. Again, these are issues that can be discussed with the psychiatrist who is attending to the child concerned.

In practice, I have often met parents who have thrown out their medication because they have found it to be over dosing the child and making the child too sleepy and drowsy. My advice is, immediately request a consult with the child’s physician to deal with the difficulty instead of throwing such medication. While alternative therapies may be employed to deal with the hyperactivity and impulsivity, parents are strongly urged to give careful thought and consideration to the long term effects of going “cold-turkey” with medication for ADHD.

Some ideas to help with concentration, memory, organization, sequencing and general problem solving skills skills would be available through consults and intervention sessions with an education therapist who deals with learners who ADHD. Useful tips include providing the child with sporting activities that gives them the avenue to vent all the extra energy they possess. Activities ranging from martial arts which can also instill self discipline to activities such as playing tennis or football can be useful in the management of ADHD.

All children have a unique set of talents and it is a matter of finding out what works best for your child. Remember, while convenience and financial aspects have to be seriously taken into account, also, bear in mind that there may be a budding talent that your child possesses that has yet to have been tapped on. While it seems like it’s a losing battle you are fighting it may well be that given a change in perspective, that losing battle be a winning blessing in disguise! Be positive, consult with the necessary professionals, explore new avenues and keep an open mind always. Sometimes it may seem impossible but, with the appropriate advice and intervention strategies, nothing can stop these children from achieving their highest potentials!