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The Peninsula
Part 2: ADHD (Attention Deficit and Hyperactive Disorder) in children
Does ADHD only affect children?
No, about one-third of children /with ADHD continue to meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis as adults. In early adulthood, ADHD may be associated with mood or conduct disorders or substance abuse. Adults with ADHD often cope with difficulties at work and in their personal and family lives related to ADHD symptoms.
How is ADHD treated?
Treating ADHD often requires medical, educational, behavioural, and psychological intervention.
This way of comprehensive approach found to be very effective. In children ages six and over medication can be an important part of treatment.
They work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce common symptoms such as inattention, and hyperactivity.
A cognitive-behavioural approach is effective for working on a problematic behaviour by helping the person understand why they are doing it and how to change it.
Social skill groups can be beneficial. A therapist can improve self-regulation, self-monitoring of the child also helps to better manage emotions, improve executive functioning so that the child would be functional in his day-to-day challenges at home, school, and in social situations.
Should I go for a gluten-free or sugar-restricted diet for my child with ADHD?
However, some alternative methods have found to help manage different symptoms of ADHD. The benefit of these methods may differ from individual to individual.
Not necessarily, it will work for all. Eating essential foods that reduce inflammation in the body may help the brain function better. This includes limiting gluten in diet, sugar and processed foods and incorporating foods high in omega 3 fatty acid for better brain functioning.
What kind of exercise is good for my child with ADHD?
Exercise can lessen the severity of ADHD symptoms and improve cognitive functioning, including focus, attention, and memory. Brain gym is good for children to improve their brain connections and functional integration.
Meditation helps those with ADHD to hone their attention and to improve self-awareness, which can restrain impulsive behaviour and reduce the anxiety that is associated with ADHD.
Fast-moving sports can work best to curb symptoms of inattention like basketball, swimming, soccer, hockey, etc.
If the pressure of competition or required skill level is too much it's better to look for activities like martial arts, ice skating, etc. If your child is not interested in sports, can do dance, band, and drama.
What accommodations are helpful for students with ADHD in the school setting?
Preferential seating, i.e., arrange seating in the front row (or close to the teacher), away from windows and other distractions.
The child can be assigned with a buddy pair in the class from the peer.
Oral instructions should be reiterated and written down for the student.
Breaking down tasks into manageable pieces of work or chunking of tasks can be done. Highlight key points in the notes and readers.
Use assistive technology to make the learning process more visual. They can be provided with extended time on tests.
Answers provided by Minusha Jaleel. M P, Senior Clinical Psychologist, QISH, Doha
(If you have any queries, you can send it to [email protected] )
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