Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adolescents and affects about one in 20 children in Australia.
It is thought to be multifactorial and genes do play some part.
With the rising awareness of mental health, a lot of parents are being diagnosed in their adulthood and hence seeking help for their children.
The main signs and symptoms include trouble focusing/paying attention (inattention), acting without thinking (impulsivity), and being extremely active (hyperactivity).
These symptoms can be seen alone or in combination.
If your child has persistent symptoms, you should have your child assessed for ADHD and its related problems such as learning difficulties, sleep problems, or anxiety.
Diagnosis of ADHD must be made by a trained and experienced health professional using a wide range of information provided by both the child’s family and school.
If you are concerned about your child, see your GP initially. They can arrange a referral to a paediatrician or a child psychologist, who will be able to assess your child.
ADHD symptoms can be managed using a range of home/classroom strategies and cognitive/behaviour therapy.
If after trying these options your child’s symptoms are still having a big impact on their life, your doctor might recommend medication.
Few choices of medications are available for ADHD but some of them are regulated In Australia.
With appropriate management, a child with ADHD can live a successful life and can be an asset to society.
Many famous personalities have been reported to have struggled with ADHD symptoms at some part of their lives, including Micheal Phelps, Greta Gerwig, Justin Timberlake, Emma Watson, Jim Carrey, Paris Hilton, Richard Branson…the list is very long.
These individuals demonstrate that timely and appropriate management leads to impressive achievements.
We must remind ourselves of the quote by John F. Kennedy, “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.”
I’m a GP and can be consulted at Cardinia Paediatric Specialists, Pakenham Specialist Consulting Suites, 2 McGregor Road, Pakenham.
Call 5924 3010, or email referrals@cardiniapaeds.com.au or admin@cardiniapaeds.com.au.
– Dr Harsh Sharma
