If you are worried about your child's behaviour, and it is disrupting family life and school performance, they may be suffering from ADHD. However, behaviour associated with ADHD can be normal if limited in time, or at certain stages of development.
3-5% children are estimated to suffer from ADHD. Characterised by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, it usually starts to manifest itself in early childhood, often initially with hyperactivity and impulsivity and later with inattention.
Hyperactivity is characterised by a child who is constantly in motion, talking, running, touching. In a confined environment such as a classroom they will look fidgety and restless.
The impulsiveness will manifest itself as an inability to think before acting. They may seem to be unable to wait their turn, be uncaring of the consequences of their actions.
The inattention results in the child being unable to stay focused on a task, they are easily distracted and seemingly easily bored.
If such behaviour is out of the ordinary either as regards your child's age or the duration of the symptoms is inappropriate, he/she may indeed be suffering from ADHD.
The diagnosis has to be made by a professional experienced in ADHD, and treatment is usually with a mix of medication and behavioural therapy.
©Stadn Ltd
