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What is ADHD And How Can I Best Help?

A common question that is searched online is, what is ADHD? This article will explain not only what ADHD is but also how to support a child with ADHD and some of the treatment options for ADHD. ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that affects people of all ages. However, it is most normally diagnosed during childhood. There are various symptoms, which we will go into more detail about shortly. The main symptoms are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, but everyone is impacted differently.

In the UK, ADHD is also referred to as Hyperkinetic Disorder , with the symptoms and diagnostic criteria being very similar. ADHD can make it hard for students to focus on studying, impacting their learning progress. Due to this, it can cause stress and anxiety ; help is needed to help students manage it and learn in the best way for them.

Symptoms of ADHD

Students with ADHD can have a multitude of symptoms that can affect them, both in ordinary life and in their education. But what is ADHD exactly, and what are the symptoms?

Some of the most common signs are:

● Students may struggle to focus on tasks that need sustained attention such as homework, projects, reading and paying attention in classes.

● Students may be easily distracted by external stimuli, this can include other people talking, small noises like a pen writing on paper and many other sources. This causes students to struggle to focus on one task, shifting their focus from one task to another while completing none.

● Students with ADHD tend to daydream, not paying attention to what is happening around them which can cause them not to learn effectively in class.

● Students may also forget to carry out daily tasks such as bringing their school books or even brushing their teeth in the morning.

To learn more about the different symptoms, click here.

Subtypes Of ADHD

There are three main types of ADHD with different characteristics.

The first subtype is called Predominantly Inattentive Presentation. This is defined as students having difficulties sustaining attention and following through on tasks. Students with this type are often called daydreamers and fall under the school's radar as they do not display hyperactive behaviour and are quiet.

Then there isPredominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation.Students with this are normally very active and struggle to stay still. Children with this subtype tend to be excessively active and may struggle with sitting still. They will find it difficult to focus on one task and will often interrupt conversations and act without thinking.

Lastly, there is Combined Presentation.This is the most common type, which is a combination of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Children with combined presentation have a mix of both symptoms, with difficulty focusing and overactivity.

Diagnosis and Support in the UK

Diagnosing ADHD can be difficult as some symptoms are similar to other conditions such as anxiety and depression. A trained professional is needed to diagnose ADHD properly. The following steps are generally taken, but can depend heavily on the individual situation:

Clinical Interviews are conducted by a trained professional, such as a paediatrician, psychiatrist, or psychologist. They will ask the subject and their family various questions about their behaviour, development, and medical history. This helps them understand their life pattern to date.

Behavioural Assessments can help to assess the possible symptoms of ADHD. One of the main questionnaires, such as the Conners' Rating Scale or the ADHD Rating Scale, is often used to determine the severity of symptoms. These help provide a more structured behaviour analysis by gathering information from parents, teachers, and students themselves. These are best completed with a trained professional, as the results are not always accurate.

Observation can be a valuable way to gain more information about the student's symptoms. This can be done at home and school to learn how the child behaves in different environments. Teachers may be asked to take notes about the student's behaviour in class, noting things like their ability to stay seated, follow instructions, or complete tasks. Parents can also contribute to this by taking notes about how their child acts at home.

Treatment Options: What Are Some Treatments for ADHD?

Once a trained professional confirms a diagnosis of ADHD, various treatment options can be discussed. There is not one treatment that works perfectly for each student; a combination is often the best choice. These approaches may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Medication is frequently used in ADHD treatment, particularly for children with moderate to severe symptoms.

There are two main types of medication used to treat ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed for ADHD and include drugs like methylphenidate (also known as Ritalin) and amphetamines. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improves attention and reduces impulsive behaviour. For some children, stimulants may not be appropriate due to possible side effects. Non-stimulants, such as atomoxetine (Strattera), are an alternative that can help with attention and impulse control without the same stimulant effect.

Behavioural interventions, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can also help children with ADHD develop coping strategies. CBT focuses on teaching children to recognise and change problematic behaviours while assisting them in building better time management skills. Family therapy has also proven valuable, as it provides strategies to parents on how to manage ADHD-related behaviours.

Supporting Someone with ADHD

Knowing how to support a child with ADHD can be challenging at times. It requires patience, understanding, and flexibility to achieve the best outcomes for the student. Whether you're a parent or teacher, there are several strategies you can employ to help manage ADHD symptoms.

  1. A consistent daily routine can help those with ADHD feel more secure and focused, which results in a calmer student.
  2. Large tasks can be overwhelming, so breaking them into smaller steps can make them seem more realistic.
  3. Exercising regularly can help students manage symptoms such as hyperactivity and improve their general mood.
  4. It is essential to maintain a structured routine at home and school. You can use checklists and reminders to help them stay organised and on track.
  5. Make sure you praise often. Positive reinforcement can help to boost their confidence. Focus on their strengths and celebrate every small achievement.

More Information

For more information on ADHD, including resources for parents and educators, please visit the following organisations:

ADHD UK

ADHD Foundation

NHS

We hope you have enjoyed reading our article and have learned more about what ADHD is and how to support a child with ADHD. If you're interested in working with children who have ADHD or other additional needs, Senploy has lots of job opportunities available. Whether you're looking to become a SEN teacher or seeking specific 1:1 support roles, Senploy offers a wide range of job listings to help you make a difference. To explore the latest SEN jobs, visit www.senploy.co.uk!

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