typical adolescent issues: discovering their identity, establishing independence, and dealing with peer pressure.
Several types of professionals can diagnose ADHD, including pediatricians, psychologists, social workers, nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and other medical doctors. A thorough medical examination by a physician is important. Only medical doctors can prescribe medication if it is indicated.
Regardless of who does the evaluation, use of the most current diagnostic criteria according to established professional standards of diagnosis is essential. During the evaluation process, the evaluating professional will request that the child’s parents and teachers complete various forms, checklists, and behavior questionnaires in order to gather comprehensive information.
Treatments
Effective treatment of ADHD in children and teens requires a comprehensive approach that professionals call multimodal. This means that the best outcomes are achieved when multiple interventions work together as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. The elements of a multimodal treatment approach include:
- Parent training
- Behavioral intervention strategies
- An appropriate educational program
- Education regarding ADHD
- Medication, when necessary
Positive behavior intervention can be critical. The most important techniques are consistency and positive reinforcement, in which the child is rewarded for desired behavior. Classroom success may require a range of interventions, from making minor adjustments in the regular classroom to requiring special education programs. For many children with ADHD, medication may be an integral part of treatment. Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications are now available to physicians and parents.
Possible Complications
Around two-thirds of children with ADHD have at least one other coexisting disorder. Disruptive behavior disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, tics and Tourette syndrome, and learning disabilities are among the most common conditions that co-occur in children with ADHD.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Currently, ADHD assessments are not recommended for children under 6 years of age. Research on preschoolers is being done to learn more about early screening for children at risk of ADHD. If your preschooler displays signs of ADHD, talk to your healthcare provider. Your doctor may advise you to observe and track your child’s symptoms over time.
Preventions
There is no “cure” for ADHD. Children with the disorder seldom outgrow it; however, some may find adaptive ways to accommodate the ADHD as they mature.
Natural Remedies
When a child is more than rambunctious, it is important to know the facts. According to research or other evidence, the following steps may be helpful:
- Supplement with essential fatty acids
Getting approximately 186 mg of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), 480 mg of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), 96 mg of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), 864 mg of linoleic acid, and 42 mg of arachidonic acid supplies fatty acids important for brain function. - Check out L-carnitine
To improve behavior, take 100 mg of this supplement for each 2.2 pounds of body weight a day, with a maximum of 4 grams a day. - Give magnesium a go
200 mg a day can address possible deficiency of this mineral that may influence ADHD - Try the Feingold diet
Work with the Feingold Association or a diet specialist to reduce or eliminate food additives and other food issues that may affect ADHD
These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.