Treating ADHD Overview
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a disorder that affects the brain and behaviors of children and adolescents, can be challenging for both the child and parents. Marked by hyperactivity, impulsivity and/or inattention, the brain disorder often leads to problems at school and home, as well as hinders a child’s ability to get along with other children and adults. An ADHD specialist, such as Dr. Katie Skelton serving the New Braunfels, San Marcos and Seguin, Texas area, is able to diagnose the disorder and provide ADHD treatment options so the parents can address the problem and provide the help the child requires.
An ADHD Specialist Discusses what is Normal Child Behavior and what is ADHD
There are countless children that cannot sit still, never seem to follow instructions or listen and blurt out inappropriate comments or answers to questions at the wrong time. Many of these children are often viewed as lacking discipline or being a troublemaker, but some of these children may be suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The signs of ADHD often appear before a child turns seven years old. The three primary symptoms include hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. It may be difficult for some parents to determine what normal child behavior is and what ADHD is because the disorder varies greatly from one child to another. Hyperactivity/impulsive children often cannot sit still and talk excessively even with nothing important to say. The inattentive child often sits quietly at a desk and daydreams. A hyperactive, impulsive and inattentive child displays all behaviors.
It is important to note that children with ADHD do not have to show all three symptoms of the disorder. The inattentive children are overlooked in many cases because they are not disruptive or impulsive.
ADHD Treatment Options in Children
Many parents feel confused and helpless when it comes to helping a child experiencing symptoms of ADHD. Fortunately ADHD specialists, such as Dr. Skelton, are available to help parents and children gain better control of the disorder. The most common ADHD treatments include psychotherapy, individual therapy, medications or a combination of all.
When used properly, stimulant and non-stimulant medications can help suppress and regulate the unwanted impulsive behavior. The medications can help eliminate hyperactivity, improve social interactions and help improve concentration. There are various medications prescribed by an ADHD specialist, and the appropriate medicine will be discussed in great detail at an individual consultation.
Research has shown that a combination of medication, psychotherapy and individual therapy are an effective ADHD treatment. A professional is able to use the therapy sessions to provide parent training, behavioral modifications and help children deal with their emotions and impulses in a more general sense.
It is important to note that in certain young patients medication is superior to therapy alone. Click here to read an informative Q&A, ‘The Multimodal Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (MTA).’
For additional resources on the various ADHD treatment options, please contact the office of Dr. Katie Skelton, ADHD specialist serving the communities of New Braunfels, San Marcos and Seguin, Texas.