ADHD and Its Symptoms
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can disrupt daily functioning. ADHD is diagnosed by psychologists, paediatricians, and psychiatrists. A diagnosis of ADHD and its symptoms can impede a child’s academic progress, causing the child to not do well at school. This may result in teachers recommending that the child repeats the grade.
It is important to understand that ADHD symptoms vary among individuals, but it is generally classified into two primary types: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Symptoms include:
1. Lack of sustained attention: Difficulty with paying attention, frequently making too many mistakes, difficulty organizing tasks, forgetfulness and losing items.
2. Hyperactivity: restlessness, fidgeting, and excessive talking.
3. Impulsivity: impatient behaviour, interrupting others, and difficulty with patience.
When left untreated, ADHD can have profound consequences. In children, it can lead to academic difficulties, low self-esteem, and impaired social interactions. Untreated ADHD can also increase the risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
ADHD is not curable, but it is manageable. Treatment plans typically involve a combination of interventions tailored to the individual’s specific needs, these may include:
1. Behavioural Therapy: Behavioural interventions teach individuals with ADHD strategies to improve focus, organization, and impulse control. These techniques help develop coping skills for daily life.
2. Educational Support: In children, teachers and school counselors can implement classroom accommodations and support to help manage symptoms. This may include a modified curriculum or extra time for assignments.
3. Medication for ADHD: In some cases, stimulant medications are prescribed to manage ADHD symptoms effectively. However, for individuals who do not respond well to stimulants or have contraindications, non-stimulant medications may be recommended.
4. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging healthy habits such as getting adequate sleep, engaging in regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet and practicing stress management can significantly contribute to better ADHD symptom management.
At Catch Up Kids, we provide educational support to children with ADHD to assist them with managing the symptoms of ADHD in their day-to-day lives. We design individualized programmes that serve to assist the child with the academic pressures that they face. The programme is not only limited to assisting the child with their academics but also assists in addressing any skills deficits that the child has. Our expert tutors are available to do sessions at one of our centres, at your home or at your child’s school. To find out more about the services offered at Catch Up Kids, contact us today!
