Is your child distractible, impulsive, and falling behind in school? If you consistently see these symptoms, please speak with your pediatrician about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD. They can help you sort through the symptoms to see if a referral for further evaluation and treatment is needed.
Let’s talk about this behavioral/learning condition and where you can go for effective ADHD treatment in Purchase, NY.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD gets much media attention, but many parents still don’t know exactly what it is. Basically, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurological condition caused by varying levels of brain chemicals or neurotransmitters–specifically, adrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin. These imbalances result in several symptoms that impact how children learn and interact with others and change their moods and overall personality.
Symptoms of ADHD in Kids
Most kids with ADHD present several iconic symptoms by the age of seven. Both boys and girls may have ADHD, although more boys are identified with a definitive diagnosis than girls.
Additionally, ADHD extends into adulthood. The coworker you know who has difficulty finishing tasks on time or is the loudest in conversation may have poorly managed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Symptoms of ADHD in kids include:
- Poor concentration
- Impulsive actions
- Distractibility
- Forgetfulness
- Anxiety and depression
- Poor organization
- Inability to complete tasks or stay on deadlines
- Talking out of turn
The Centers for Disease Control reports that kids with ADHD just don’t get along well with their peers. Classroom teachers may struggle to get the ADHD child to fit in with group assignments, taking turns, and more. At home, parents may feel the child is simply lazy and disobedient.
Treatment for ADHD
Treatment begins with an in-office visit with the child’s pediatrician. A thorough physical assessment can rule out other physiological causes for symptoms. The child’s doctor can also refer the child for psychiatric evaluation if ADHD is suspected.
While psychiatry can sound scary to many parents, it is the best way to determine the proper diagnosis. It’s important for families to understand that ADHD symptoms are no one’s fault–neither the child’s nor the parents’.
Researchers attribute ADHD largely to heredity. Other factors, such as low birth weight, prematurity, and traumatic brain injury, may lead to this neurological condition.
Frankly, today’s mental health providers have many tools to help kids manage ADHD symptoms. Medication and a combination of behavioral and cognitive therapies can calm impulsivity, provide focus and increase social skills. Also, many families find counseling, diet modifications, exercise, and regular sleep habits add an extra layer of effectiveness to ADHD treatments.
Help for ADHD in Kids
Families can find compassionate, accurate assessment and treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder with the board-certified physicians at Westchester Park Pediatrics. Our pediatric practice in Purchase, NY, serves as the medical home for numerous area children–from newborns to teens up to 15 years old.
If you are concerned about ADHD, call us today at (914) 761-1717, or request your visit online.We will get you and your child the help you need to feel successful and have harmony at home and school. We’ll be happy to see you soon.
