ADHD is defined as a pattern of behaviour that combines inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity, these can be present without the hyperactivity; the latter is described as ADD. Listed below are some Common Symptoms of ADD/ADHD
• Over Activity
• Sleep/Waking Disorders
• Low Self Esteem
• Reactive Aggression
• Passive Behaviour Dreamy/Spaced Out
• Disruptive Behaviour
• Clumsiness
• Poor Memory Retention
• Inability To Cope
• Frequent Frustration
• Erratic Mood Swings
• Constant Attention Seeking Behaviour
• Inflexibility
• Immature Behaviour
• Periodic Depression/Anxiety
• Bi-Polar/Manic Depression
• Disorganisation
• Poor Concentration
• Inability to Understand Cause and Effect
• Peer Relation Problems
• Learning and Communications Disorders
• Over Sensitive to Criticism
• Cannot Prioritize
• Need for Instant gratification
• Paranoia
• Strong tendency to Substance Abuse
• Lack of inhibitions
Many children will exhibit some or all of these systems and not be diagnosed as having ADHD; being inattentive, hyperactive or compulsive at some point is a normal part of growing up. The difference with ADHD/ADD children is that they present the majority of these symptoms, in most situations.
" Routine • Repetition • Structure • Praise "
ADHD-type problems can be very effectively managed if parents, with the support of their family and the professionals involved, can help these children to learn the skills and strategies required, in order to help themselves.
• Pre-school, talk to your GP and health visitor. A referral should be made to a paediatrician or a child development centre. Assessment can then be made by a psychologist or an ADHD specialist.
• School aged children, talk to your GP, your child's teacher, school nurse, school doctor or special needs coordinator. Referral for assessments can be made through your GP, School or School Medical Officer.
• Adolescents/adults, consult your GP, ask for a referral to an ADD/ADHD specialist. There are a few in Britain who deal specifically with adults; we have a list of names and addresses on request. see Help-Contacts
The results of being a child with ADHD can be deeply disturbing and desperately sad. In time, these children manifest utter frustration both with themselves and the rest of the outside world. They become very easily upset and grow to dislike themselves.
They inevitably invite fairly constant negativity, which re-enforces their low self esteem. They are prone to, paranoia and serious depression.
We can only hope for a much wider recognition of these conditions and greater funding for more researching; and in the meantime we are grateful to all who encourage, understand, love and discipline these children so that they may learn to thrive and not just merely to survive.