How to Know Your Child Needs ADHD Treatment

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder that can significantly impact a child or teenager's daily life. Early diagnosis and clinical ADHD treatment are crucial for effectively managing symptoms and supporting your child's well-being. Understanding the warning signs and symptoms can help parents take appropriate action with the help of a psychiatrist.

Warning signs

There are a few warning signs parents and teachers can watch for that indicate children may need ADHD treatment. These warning signs may manifest in various aspects of a child's life and can include:

• Trouble in school: A child living with undiagnosed ADHD may have difficulty concentrating during class, exhibit poor grades, struggle with following instructions, and have trouble completing tasks
• Behavioral problems: Frequent tantrums or meltdowns, difficulty regulating one’s emotions, disruptive behavior, and trouble getting along with family and friends
• Challenges at home: Children who display forgetfulness, difficulties with daily routines and normal responsibilities, and problems with following simple directions from their parents

ADHD Symptoms

ADHD is categorized by a combination of symptoms grouped into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulse control.

• Inattention: Children needing ADHD treatment may struggle with focusing on tasks or activities, exhibit forgetfulness, and appear disorganized
• Hyperactivity: Those exhibiting behaviors of excess fidgeting, restlessness, the inability to stay seated, and constant movement (even when seated)
• Impulse control: Impulsive behavior, or impulsivity, includes interrupting others, impatiens, and acting without thinking about others or consequences

What to expect during ADHD diagnosis

If parents observe several ADHD symptoms or warning signs in their child, seeking a psychiatrist's guidance in receiving a comprehensive evaluation is essential. The process usually involves gathering information from parents, teachers, and other relevant sources. While there is no single test the psychiatrist will utilize, parents and their children can expect rating scales and questionnaires to assess symptoms' severity and rule out other possible underlying conditions.

The comprehensive evaluation will identify not only if the child has ADHD but also the type of ADHD the child has, predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive, or a combination of both. The psychiatrist will also be able to determine if the child has any co-occurring conditions causing their symptoms, such as an anxiety disorder or clinical depression.

How to support an ADHD diagnosee

Once a diagnosis of ADHD is confirmed, whether co-occurring or independent, the psychiatrist will consider several treatment options split between non-pharmacological (psychotherapy) and pharmacological (medicine). However, it is still important for parents and other loved ones to know how to support a diagnosee between sessions, as treatment does not stop after their appointment.

It is essential for parents to provide a supportive environment that nurtures the child's development. An ideal environment will allow the child and parent to have an open and honest line of communication, structure, routines, and an advocate to speak on the child's behalf when working with their teachers and school staff.

Each factor in creating this environment is essential as the child's treatment will likely change as they age, and their body will respond differently to methods as time passes. Remaining educated in ADHD treatments is the best way to support the child living with the condition, reducing frustration and angst on both sides.