Is your child very naughty? Is he/she lacking attention? Let's talk about ADHD! (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - ADHD)

Is your little one always fidgeting, running, or jumping? Or is it hard to pay attention to schoolwork or anything else? Maybe you have these things in common. Do you also feel like you can't do your work properly, forget everything, and can't keep your mind in one place ? Then this story will be very important for you. Today we are talking about ADHD, a condition that is common among many people, but is not often talked about.

Simply put, what is ADHD?

The full meaning of ADHD is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder . In Sinhala, it means 'attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder'. This is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the functioning of the brain. This is not the fault of the child or the parenting of the child. This condition makes it difficult for a person to control their attention, stay in one place, and control their behavior.

This condition is most common in childhood, especially when starting school. It is often diagnosed when it becomes difficult to concentrate on studies. However, it is not limited to childhood, and can continue into adolescence and adulthood.

Types and symptoms of ADHD in children

There are three main types of ADHD. Let's take a look at what they are and what their symptoms are.

What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

This is something that many people ask. Actually, ADD is the name used for ADHD. Later, the symptom 'Hyperactivity' was added to it and the name was changed to ADHD. Therefore, some people still use both names for this condition today.

ADHD symptoms in adults

ADHD symptoms can change as a person grows up. The excessive fidgeting that was present in childhood may decrease, and other symptoms may appear. These include:

• Constantly being late and forgetting things.
• Restlessness.
• Difficulty controlling anger.
• Impulsiveness.
• Difficulty keeping things organized, chaos everywhere.
• Procrastination.
• Getting frustrated quickly.
• Always feeling 'bored'.
• Difficulty staying focused when reading something like a book or newspaper.
• Mood swings without reason.
• Conditions such as depression.

These symptoms can cause many problems in the workplace, family life, and social relationships.

What are the causes of ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD is not yet known . However, research has shown that it has a strong genetic link . This means that if someone in your family has the condition, you are more likely to develop it. In addition, the following risk factors may also play a role:

• Some kind of accident to the brain.
• Mother smoking or drinking alcohol during pregnancy.
• Having a low birth weight or being born prematurely.
• Exposure to toxic substances such as lead during childhood or while in the womb.

How to recognize this condition?

Diagnosing ADHD is a complicated process, especially in children. It can't be diagnosed with a single test. Your doctor will make a diagnosis after extensive discussions with the child, parents, and teachers, and by observing the child's behavior.

The doctor uses internationally accepted guidelines for this. He also checks for other conditions that could be causing these symptoms (for example, depression, anxiety, thyroid disease).

Sometimes the doctor may also order tests to check the child's vision, hearing, and brain function. It is very important that these tests are performed by a pediatrician or mental health counselor who has expertise in ADHD .

What are the treatments?

When treating ADHD, a combination of methods is more effective than a single method.

Treatment for children

• Behavioral Therapy: A therapist teaches parents how to manage their child's behavior. They teach them how to create a clear routine, reward good behavior (positive reinforcement), and respond to inappropriate behavior. This type of therapy is mainly recommended for young children.
• Play/Talk Therapy: This method is useful for older children and adolescents. It gives them a chance to express their feelings and talk about problems.
• Medication:
• Stimulants: These are the most commonly used. These drugs improve attention span and reduce impulsivity.
• Non-stimulants: These are used if stimulants do not work or have too many side effects.

Treatment for adults

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This helps you identify and change your negative thought patterns, manage your emotions, and develop the skills you need to live successfully with ADHD symptoms.
• ADHD Coaching: A coach provides practical support for daily life tasks (time management, organization).
• Medication: As with children, stimulant and non-stimulant medications are used as prescribed by a doctor.

What can we do besides medication?

Along with medication and therapy, these lifestyle changes can be a great help in managing ADHD symptoms.

• Nutrition: A balanced, nutritious diet is very important. Choose protein and fiber-rich foods (whole foods) instead of foods high in sugar. Drinking enough water is also essential.
• Exercise: For both children and adults, engaging in daily physical activity improves focus and mood.
• Sleep: Lack of sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms. Children need 9-13 hours of sleep per day, adolescents 8-10 hours, and adults 7-9 hours.
• Stress management: Stress also increases this condition. Things like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help reduce stress.

Living with ADHD

Caring for a child with ADHD can sometimes be overwhelming for parents. Living with the condition as an adult can be a challenge. These tips will help you.

When living with a child with ADHD...

• Give simple instructions: Instead of a general instruction like "Get ready for school," give one-by-one, simple instructions like "Now brush your teeth. Okay, now get dressed."
• Create order: Reduce distractions (toys) in your child's room and keep it organized. Create a daily routine (schedule).
• Praise the good: ADHD children can have low self-esteem because they are constantly criticized. So praise the things they do well and highlight their strengths.
• Be calm yourself: Be a role model by staying calm and focused when talking to your child and when working.
• Get support: Stay in touch with your child's doctor, teachers, and therapists. It's also a great idea to join support groups with other parents who have had similar experiences.

Living with ADHD as an adult...

• Use lists and planners: These help you keep things like your tasks and appointments organized.
• Break down large tasks into chunks: If it's difficult to start a big task all at once, break it down into smaller steps and do it one by one.
• Use timers: Set a timer for a task and do it until the time is up. Then take a short break.
• Adjust your environment: Work in a quiet place with few distractions. Use noise-canceling headphones if necessary.
• Ask for help: You can gain support by telling trusted friends, family, or coworkers that you have this condition. Also, don't hesitate to ask for help when you feel overwhelmed.

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