3 Signs Your Child May Have ADHD
The ADD Resource Center reports than more than six million children between the ages of four and 17 have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a mental condition that can impact individuals at any age, and it is important that the signs are caught early on in adolescence so that proper treatment can be obtained. Here are three of the most common signs and symptoms that your child may have ADHD.
Trouble Focusing
It is not uncommon for younger children to have a short attention span, but children with ADHD find it difficult to focus even in a situation where an individual is communicating with them face-to-face and directly. The child may say he or she is listening, but when the child is asked to repeat what he or she heard, the child will be unable to do so. If your child is having trouble focusing, you may eventually start to see a decline in his or her grades.
Lack of Patience
Another sign of ADHD in children is the inability to wait until it is their turn for something. It may be something like waiting for their turn in a board game, standing in line for their turn for a drink at the water foundation, or something else entirely. Whatever the case may be, children who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are likely to become impatient and could cut in line. It is not uncommon for there to be issues with homework and chores at home since he or she is unwilling to wait to do the things that he or she would rather be doing.
Mood Swings
Children with ADHD tend to find it very difficult to control their emotions as it takes more time, effort, and focus to identify and then respond properly to a feeling. If you see that your child is having emotional outbursts—especially more than usual— at home or at school and/or is exhibiting mood swings, you may want to consider talking to his or pediatrician about an evaluation.
Helping Your Child
The great thing about ADHD is that it can be completely managed through a variety of methods, including medication and therapy. By talking to your pediatrician when you notice symptoms, you, your pediatrician, and possibly even a psychologist can work to develop a routine that helps your child feel and focus better. Keep a list of the symptoms that you notice in your child as this will help your doctor be able to recommend the best and most effective course of treatment for your child. For more information, reach out to ADHD doctors like Michele Campione, M.D.
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