Is your child having trouble focusing on one thing? Could it be ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)?

Does your child always fidget without staying in one place? Does the teacher often complain that he is not paying attention in class? Or does he start one thing after another without finishing his work? As a parent, when you see things like this, you probably feel a lot of anxiety and a heavy heart. In fact, this is not the child's fault, nor is it your fault in raising him. Today we are talking about ADHD, a condition that shows such symptoms and is common among children.

Simply put, what is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder . In Sinhala, it means 'attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder'. This is a condition related to brain function. This can affect a person's ability to pay attention, stay focused, and control their behavior.

This condition is most common in young children and young adults, and can sometimes persist into adulthood. It is usually first recognized when a child starts school, when they have difficulty concentrating on schoolwork.

Types and symptoms of ADHD seen in children

There are three main types of ADHD that can be identified in children. Let's take a look at what they are and what their symptoms are.

What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

Some people still use the name ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). That was actually the original name for the condition. Later, the word hyperactivity was added to the name and the name changed to ADHD. So, these two terms refer to the same condition.

Are ADHD symptoms different in adults?

Yes, ADHD symptoms can change as we get older. Adults may experience symptoms like these:

• Often being late or forgetting things.
• Restlessness , inability to stay in one place.
• Difficulty controlling anger.
• Making decisions rashly, without thinking.
• Difficulty organizing work.
• Procrastination.
• Easily frustrated.
• Constant boredom.
• Difficulty concentrating when reading a book or newspaper.
• Mood swings without reason.
• Depression.

These characteristics can cause problems at work and in personal relationships.

What are the causes of ADHD?

Experts still don't know exactly what causes ADHD. But research has shown that it is hereditary, meaning it has a genetic link . This means that if someone in your family has the condition, you are more likely to develop it too. In addition, the following risk factors may also play a role:

• If there has been any accident to the brain.
• If the mother smoked or drank alcohol during pregnancy.
• If you were born with a low birth weight or prematurely.
• If you were exposed to toxic chemicals such as lead during childhood or in the womb.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

ADHD, especially in children, is a bit tricky to diagnose. It can't be diagnosed with a single test. Doctors diagnose ADHD by talking to the child, parents, and teachers about the symptoms at length, and by observing the child's behavior.

In this, the doctor considers the following:

• How many symptoms you or your child have and how long they have been present.
• To rule out other conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, thyroid disease) that could be causing these symptoms.
• Sometimes problems with vision, hearing, or other senses can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. So the doctor may do a physical exam and a neurological exam.
• Tests that assess things like intelligence, skills, and personality traits may also sometimes be recommended.

What are the treatments for ADHD?

When treating ADHD, not just one method, but a combination of several treatment methods is successful.

Ways to make life easier with ADHD

In addition to medical treatment, some lifestyle changes for you and your child can go a long way in managing ADHD symptoms.

• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet that is high in protein and fiber and low in sugar. Choose natural foods over processed foods. Drink plenty of water, as dehydration can also affect concentration.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity improves focus, reduces irritability, and improves mood.
• Sleep: Lack of sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms. Children need 9-13 hours of sleep per day, young children 8-10 hours, and adults 7-9 hours.
• Stress: Stress can also worsen symptoms. Things like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
• Supplements: There is some evidence that omega-3s, found in fish oil, may help with ADHD symptoms. However, these are not as effective as prescription medications. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any supplements.

What parents can do to help their child

• Reduce distractions, such as toys, in your child's room and keep it tidy.
• Maintain a clear routine and set of rules.
• When giving instructions, give them simply, clearly, and one at a time. Instead of saying, "Get ready for school," break them down into chunks, like, "Brush your teeth. Now get dressed."
• Reward and encourage your child's good behavior.
• Build your child's self-esteem. They may feel inferior because they are constantly being criticized. So praise your child for their strengths .
• Encourage your child's special talents (sports, arts).
• Maintain regular contact with your child's doctor, teachers, and therapists.

Living with ADHD as an adult

• Use lists and planners to keep things like your work and appointments organized.
• Break big tasks into parts and do them little by little.
• Choose a quiet place with few distractions when working.
• Do only one task at a time. Finish it, take a short break, and then move on to the next task.
• If you are confident, talk to your family, friends, and coworkers about your situation. Their support will be a great source of strength.
• Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.

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