If your child suffers from ADHD, the first step is to get a proper diagnosis. If the child exhibits only mild symptoms, then the doctor might not suspect anything serious. The symptoms may not affect the student’s behavior in school, but they can cause problems with concentration, staying organized, and completing tasks. Untreated symptoms of ADHD can persist well into adulthood. Luckily, there are effective treatments available.
A diagnosis of ADHD can cause a flood of mixed emotions. You might be relieved that it’s finally over, but you’ll also be worried about how to proceed. You shouldn’t rush into any decisions about treatment. Instead, take your time and get an accurate diagnosis. You should also seek professional help if you suspect you may have ADHD. The sooner you have a proper diagnosis, the sooner you can start the treatment process.
While there is no easy way to diagnose ADHD online, there are several self-screening tools available to help you determine if your child is suffering from it. If your child displays any of these symptoms, you should schedule a consultation with a doctor. Using questionnaires and quizzes can give you the confidence to seek professional help. Make sure you bring any pertinent health records and prepare a detailed social history and family history. Many healthcare providers will send you a questionnaire for you to fill out.
ADHD treatment can vary, but it generally involves several medical professionals. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of your child’s symptoms and the level of your child’s tolerance for the medication. Generally, the goal is to help your child regain normal functioning at school and at home. A child’s teacher may also be able to offer advice and help with behavioral training. Although teachers can give information to parents, they cannot diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions for their child. Parents should work with a licensed health care clinician when considering any medical treatments.
While medications for ADHD are available, there are non-stimulant treatments that are often more effective. These treatments are slow-acting, but may improve focus and attention. Among them are antidepressants, atomoxetine, and guanfacine. The most common non-stimulants are psychostimulants. Although these medications are effective in treating ADHD symptoms, they can have side effects if misused or taken in excess. In addition, they must be monitored closely by a medical professional to avoid dangerous interactions.
ADHD used to be called attention deficit disorder. This term is misleading. The most accurate name is attention deregulation, and it reflects the disorder’s true nature. People with ADHD have more than enough attention, but they can’t consistently harness it. When unchained, they hyperfocus on things that aren’t related to the current activity, lose track of time, and blurt out unrelated thoughts.
In adults, the diagnosis of ADHD is made after the child has demonstrated at least five symptoms consistently over several settings. The doctor may ask the child’s parents and teachers to complete checklists to rule out other conditions. The diagnosis may also require an evaluation of the child’s physical health. The symptoms of ADHD can overlap with other disorders, such as learning disabilities or emotional problems. This is why it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional.
