Motherhood: Focusing in on ADHD

Focusing in on ADHD

By Julie Young Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complicated condition that impacts many areas of family life. It affects millions of children and typically continues into adulthood. However, the more you know about it, the better equipped you will be to support and advocate for your child.

Dr. Andrea Naaum, a psychiatrist with Parkview Behavioral Health Institute, said the hallmark symptoms of ADHD are inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While most kids are one or all of these (because they are kids), to diagnose someone with ADHD, these symptoms need to cause significant impairment in functioning in different areas in life. “Having one of these symptoms does not mean that a child automatically has ADHD,” she said. “These are non-specific symptoms with broad differentials. Symptoms need to be present in childhood, but certainly change over time.” For some children, their symptoms may present themselves in displays of hyperactivity and impulsivity, while others may have difficulty paying attention for an extended period, seem disorganized, forgetful, and may lose things frequently. There are also those who display a combination of the two presentations. Dr. Naaum says boys are more likely to have the hyperactive-impulsive subtype and are often diagnosed earlier than girls. “One of the most important things I stress with my patients and their families is that this is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Your child isn’t choosing to be lazy or bad, and they can’t just snap out of it by trying harder,” she said. Medications can be very helpful for those diagnosed with ADHD, and there are a variety of stimulants on the market to help alleviate symptoms. However, for those hesitant to try medications or looking for additional options, Dr. Kristen Varian, a clinical psychologist with Parkview Behavioral Health Institute, says there are behavioral and cognitive behavioral interventions that can be helpful in addressing symptoms and creating change. “Parenting techniques, such as the Nurtured Heart Approach, can also be very helpful in parenting children with difficulties like ADHD, along with helping children cope with the associated challenges,” she said, noting that these interventions can also be combined with medication for a more integrated treatment approach, which is her most common recommendation.

The good news is that one of the fastest interventions in psychiatry is treating those with ADHD. In fact, stimulants work very quickly, and if children are taking an appropriate dose to manage their symptoms, parents and teacher often notice a difference within days. What takes a lot longer, is undoing the complications of untreated ADHD and establishing good social, organizational, and time management skills. Naturally, it is important to partner with your healthcare professional to find the best treatment option for your child and monitor their progress throughout their journey. “While the research shows that ADHD symptoms typically persist from childhood into adolescence, there may be a decrease or change in symptoms in the transition into early adulthood,” said Dr. Varian. “For those who are struggling to a greater degree, a more structured intervention may be helpful.” a

Resource:

Parkview Behavioral Health, Fort Wayne, parkview.com/services-specialties/behavioral-health/behavioral-health