Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder is marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and / or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. The National Institutes of Mental Health describes it this way:

Inattention = wandering off tasks, difficulty sustaining focus, disorganized.

Hyperactivity = moving constantly, fidgeting, tapping feet or hands, excessive talking, wearing others out with consistent activity.

Impulsivity = hasty actions without thought – sometimes leading to harm, inability to delay gratification, socially intrusive, excessive interrupting of others.

ADHD symptoms can appear as early as 3 to 6 years of age and can continue through adolescence into adulthood. 

Over 6 million children between the ages of 4 to 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD. Boys are three times more likely than girls. Interestingly, boys’ symptoms are often “external” such as running, hitting, acting out, and hyperactivity. Symptoms in girls are often described as “internal” such as low self-esteem, anxiety, daydreaming, teasing or namecalling.

While there is no cure, treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve functioning. Medication can help. Psychotherapy is often recommended:

• Behavioral therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Family and marriage therapy
• Parenting skills training
• Classroom management
• Stress management
• Support groups

You don’t have to go through it alone. Call us. We can help.