ADHD​

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
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​Recognizing ADHD 
As a parent, you are probably familiar with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, better known as ADHD. This common disability, characterized by short attention span and hyperactivity, typically affects children early in childhood. Although three to ten percent of school-age children are thought to have ADHD, diagnosing ADHD is not easy. Comprehensive developmental, educational, and psychological, assessments are required in order for an accurate diagnosis to be made.

What causes ADHD?
ADHD is a neurologically based disability. Several factors, however, may contribute to its cause. ADHD may be inherited; children with ADHD often have parents with ADHD. In addition, many studies have now established that the brains of individuals with ADHD actually function differently than "typical" or "normal" brains. Specific deficits are seen in the frontal areas of the brain where attention and concentration skills originate. 

Characteristics of ADHD
If your child is over six years of age and regularly exhibits four or more of the characteristics listed below, you may want to consult your family physician. 
  • Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
  • Runs about or climbs excessively in inappropriate situations
  • Has difficulty quietly playing or engaging in leisure activities
  • Talks excessively
  • Has difficulty waiting his or her turn
  • Is often "on the go" or acting as if "driven by a motor"
  • Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
  • Is often forgetful in daily activities
  • Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
  • Exhibits emotional problems, including depression and low self-esteem
  • Has difficulty socializing, often having few friends

ADHD is a complex disorder that cannot be treated successfully with one type of therapeutic intervention. Several different methods of treatment are often recommended. These can include behavioral modification, classroom intervention, environmental restructuring, individual or family therapy, and medication. Initiating therapies for ADHD early in life can help affected individuals cope with social and educational difficulties that may arise throughout their life, and lead to improved outcomes. Early intervention is key to successfully managing ADHD. If you suspect that your child may be suffering from ADHD, do not hesitate to consult your child's teacher or pediatrician. 



Ways to Improve Self-Esteem in Children Who Have ADHD
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Become Proactive
Knowledge is power.  Gain enough knowledge about the disability so you understand why and how ADHD affects the child at home, in school, in social situations, and within the family. 

Change Your Belief System
Before the child can change his or her self-concept, the adults in the child's life have to change the way they view the child.  Separate the child from the behaviour, and then separate the child from the disability.  These are not ADHD children.  They are children with ADHD. 

Act, Don't React
Emotional responses such as blame and anger will tend to diminish when you stop, look and listen before you respond.  In other words, count to ten.

Nurture Yourself
Take time alone with your spouse, develop an interest or hobby, establish a regular exercise - be good to yourself. 

Catch the Child Being Good
Give your child lots of praise, encouragement, recognition, and positive attention.  Reward the child for meeting expectations.  Use punishment sparingly, and never ridicule the child. 

Develop the Child's Sense of Competence and Responsibility
Develop realistic expectations of the child.  Play to the child's strengths by building opportunities for success in the environment.  Remember, you may have to structure situations carefully to make success achievable.

Connect with Us.

​BC EFAP Client Access for immediate and confidential assistance 24/7.
BC lower mainland ​604.732.6933​
toll free ​1.800.667.0993
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TTY 1.888.234.0414

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