ADHD: an overview of how to manage

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and may continue through adolescence and adulthood. People suffering from this condition may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, or be overly hyper or active. They can be predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive or combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive. Some children may appear to be quiet and reserved and may be overlooked by many parents and teachers. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued guidelines to bring more clarity to this issue. Most children with this disorder also have at least one other developmental or behavioral problem. They may also have a psychiatric problem, such as depression or bipolar disorder.

Although ADHD can't be cured, it can be successfully managed. Some symptoms may even improve as the child ages. A combination of drugs and therapy is used. This can enable a patient to feel calm, concentrate better, be less impulsive and be able to learn new skills without much difficulty. This treatment requires a lot of cooperation from the therapist, parents and the patient.

Psychostimulants, normally known as stimulants, are usually used for treatment. In spite of being stimulants, they have a rather calming effect on patients. Methylphenidate and dexamphetamine are two of the stimulants that are mainly used. Atomoxetine is not a stimulant but works as well as the stimulants nonetheless. Administration of these drugs is carefully and closely monitored as they can be misused. Research suggests that after a couple of years on stimulants, the drugs may no longer have a significant effect. So after this period of time, children are usually offered a trial period off their drugs to see if they still need them. Like any medication, these may have side-effects. For example, recent research has focused on possible effects on growth in some children.

Along with medication, different therapies prove to be useful in the treatment as well as additional problems arising with this disorder, such as conduct or anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy is a type of talking therapy, during which the patients are encouraged to discuss their condition and how it affects them. It gives them a sense of being diagnosed and can help them learn to cope with their problems.

Behaviour therapy is another therapy that provides support for guardians of children. It usually involves behaviour management, which uses a system of rewards and penalties to encourage the patient to try and control their symptoms.

Parent training and education programs have been organized to help the parents learn better ways of communicating with their child in order to improve their behavior. Social skill training works on increasing the ability of the patient to function properly in a society.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an alternative form of therapy where a therapist would try and change the perspective of a patient about a situation, which would in turn change their behavior. These therapies can be carried out by the help of psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors and social workers. Modification of diet may also help some children. Constant support from the family is also vital for these patients.

ADHD is a long-term, chronic condition. If it is not managed appropriately, it may lead to drug and alcohol abuse, failure in school, problems keeping a job and trouble with the law. According to a survey by BBC health, patients with this condition are more likely to commit crimes due to impulsiveness than normal people.

About half of children suffering from this condition will continue to have troublesome symptoms of inattention or impulsivity as adults. However, adults are often more capable of controlling behavior and masking difficulties. Although there is no proven way to prevent this condition, early identification and treatment can prevent many of the problems associated with it. With help and proper support, many patients manage to channel their energies with dramatic success. More information can be found on healthcarevilla.com.