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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a
condition that can afflict children and adults. People
suffering from ADHD have symptoms such as:
1) Poor concentration and attention span
2) Poor memory
3) Impulsiveness - the trait of doing things without
thinking first
4) Easily frustrated - because of poor concentration and
memory when they cannot remember things, they get
frustrated. This causes behavioral patterns like temper
tantrums and outbursts
The above traits are even shown by people who are not
suffering from ADHD. Because of ADHD children suffer in
various fields and activities in and out of school. They
have to face defeat and failure in various areas like:
a) at school (getting work done, paying attention,
daydreaming, losing homework, talking in class, being
disruptive, etc.),
b) at home (are not able to finish chores, are clumsy, get
into fights with siblings and more)
c) participate and contribute actively in social
activities such as being tolerant and accommodating of
others, controlling temper and aggression, not playing
practical jokes on others etc.
It would not be appropriate to include ADHD as an injuries
or a disease as its onset is not dependent on a germ or
any specific physical malfunction. This comes into effect
only as a result of some part of the brain not working at
peak efficiency and not contributing totally.
What is clear is that ADHD does run in families and is at
least partially genetic - often a parent has the same
symptoms. What is also clear is that the symptoms, and
therefore the problems, are long term. They are not going
to go away or be cured in a short period of time, but are
almost certainly going to continue through into the teen
years, and probably even into adulthood.
HOW IS ADHD MANAGED?
What bothers children suffering from ADHD is the danger
and fear of long term implications and complications. For
example:
a) Their fear of failure at school owing to poor
concentration, leading to school drop out
b) Are constantly in trouble because of their impulsive
behavior
c) may turn to social ills like drugs, crime, drink
because of their constant failures.
These fears are what bother these children as these
factors could influence their attitude and performance in
adult life too.
What you cannot beat has to be managed, and the goal of
good management is to avoid complications. Since the
process of management is a long term commitment, the only
people who can effectively ensure its putting into place
are the parents. The parents who live with the child,
understand his needs and requirements and are the foremost
people who are concerned with the well being of the child
are the ones who need to take a proactive part in managing
this difficulty. Unless parents themselves take the lead,
all efforts of others shall go to naught. It is only when
parents take an active part that the efforts of others
shall bear fruit too. Some of the components of effective
management of ADHD are:
COMMITTED PARENTS who will work for the best for their
child. There is much information, including books and
videos, on ADHD and how to help your child - borrow them,
buy them, read them, and become informed. But remember
there is also much mis-information (especially on the
internet and in newspapers and magazines), so discuss what
you read with your local support group and professionals.
Be especially suspicious of groups who claim to have the
"magic cure" for your child.
GOOD COMMUNICATION is very essential between parents,
support groups and the school teachers. If all three
groups care to communicate and solve particular problems
it will be beneficial for the child.
ADJUSTMENTS IN THE ENVIRONMENT. Children with ADHD do best
in a quiet, calm, structured, low-stimulation environment
(e.g. one to one) and poorly in chaotic situations (e.g.
busy classrooms, noisy, busy homes). As a family you may
want to find ways to reorganise life so that it is less
stressful for all of you. At school the teachers will be
doing the same, and it is best if the two can be co-ordinated.
CLEAR BEHAVIORAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGY Children with ADHD
have to be given clear and exact instructions and
expectations. If they are clear on the reward and
punishment system then they will adjust their behavior
accordingly. The support or the social worker can help you
devise strategies for a Clear behavioral management
program to help your child.
PARENTAL SUPPORT.Since getting along wit these children
and bringing them up takes a lot of doing , the parents
themselves are likely to get depressed and break up. To
avoid marriages to break up and to maintain harmony, it is
advisable for parents themselves to seek assistance from
parent support groups, parent training groups, respite
care, marital counseling, family therapy are such support
groups and organizations.
MEDICATION for ADHD should be such that reduces the
symptoms and lets the child the opportunity to learn
academic, social, and other life skills. The aim here
should be to get the correct medicine in the right dosage.
child the opportunity to learn academic, social, and other
life skills.
ADHD patients are given various medicines. Most of these
are stimulants and a new rage is a medicine called
atomoxetine. This is a new medicine for ADHD and is seen
to be working very well and with negligible side effects.
More information on this new wonder drug could be sought
from the doctor.
The path of correct management has to be tread by the
parents themselves. Healthcare professionals can only
advise and guide the parents on this lonely path. They can
assist you where ever you get stuck and help you along in
implementing an effective management plan.
It is very important for you as a family to learn about
the ADHD so that you are able to bring up the child in
least stressful environment. The more you learn the better
it is for the child and the family as a whole.
Article Source: http://www.articlemap.com
You can find many more of Dr. Noel
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