What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a medical condition that occurs due to differences in brain development and activity. Also sometimes called attention deficit disorder (ADD), it can be present in both children and adults, but issues tend to arise during childhood, which is the point where an ADHD diagnosis is usually made.
Kids with ADHD often have trouble conforming to behavioral standards. This can negatively affect them at school, at home, and in social settings. Many are often marked as “problem” or “bad” kids, and this can cause lasting psychological damage on top of an already difficult set of challenges.
What are some signs my child has ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder causes kids to display certain behaviors. ADHD signs are grouped into three main types, although it is not uncommon for a child to display behaviors from more than one type.
Inattentive
Kids with inattentive ADHD struggle to remain on task and are easily distracted. They may not always finish what they start and can appear to be absent-minded or irresponsible with their belongings.
Hyperactive
Kids with hyperactive ADHD often have trouble staying quiet or sitting still. They may jump, run, climb, or roughhouse at inappropriate times. These kids, while often very smart, can find it hard to complete school assignments as directed, or make mistakes because they rush through work.
Impulsive
Kids with impulsive ADHD tend to act before they think through the consequences. They might find it hard to wait their turn and frequently interrupt. Sometimes they have strong emotional reactions to things that would not provoke the same response in others. Often, these kids choose risky behaviors.
It is important to note that all children display some of these tendencies at various points throughout their development. The difference in kids with ADHD lies in the degree to which these behaviors negatively impact their daily lives.
What can be done to treat ADHD?
The first step is obtaining an accurate diagnosis. Dr. Ahmed uses the QbCheckⓇ system, a computerized tool that helps guide the diagnostic process by comparing your child’s behaviors to gender and age-matched control groups of kids both with and without ADHD.
Medication may play a role in your child’s treatment path. It can take a period of trial and error to find the right combination of medications and behavioral therapy, but you will have the support of The PsyClinic team throughout the process.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a powerful way to treat ADHD. This approach helps your child learn to recognize disordered thought patterns and choose behaviors that are more appropriate to the setting. Over time, this form of therapy can do wonders to improve success at home, at school, and with friends.
We see patients in the following locations: River Oaks, Webster, Baytown, and Houston, Texas. Call the office today to book your initial evaluation, or spend a few moments on the online scheduling page. The PsyClinic team can also help you work with your child’s teachers and school administrators to give the support needed at school.
