One of the most common childhood disorders is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a complex mental health disorder that can affect your child’s success at school and personal relationships. There are multiple signs of ADHD which vary with each individual child. These are sometimes difficult to recognize because all children display these behaviors from time to time.
The most common signs of ADHD in children are combinations of the following behaviors exhibited consistently:
- Self-focused behavior – The child has trouble sharing, waiting their turn when playing with other children and letting others talk.
- Doesn’t complete tasks – Children with ADHD are easily distracted and tend to move from one thing to the next before finishing.
- Can’t sit still – Kids are constantly on the go–running, climbing on everything, squirming, fidgeting and talking non-stop.
- Emotional outbursts – ADHD children find it difficult to control emotions and are prone to angry outbursts or temper tantrums.
- Lack of focus – Children with ADHD don’t pay attention even when being spoken to directly and have trouble keeping track of things like books and homework.
- Constant mistakes – ADHD children have difficulty following instructions, executing plans with multiple steps and making good decisions.
- Withdrawn or oblivious – The flipside of the “turbo” child, is the child who may stare into space or appear to daydream, unaware of what is going on around them. They may be uninterested in engaging with others.
There is no single medical test to diagnose a child with ADHD. It is a complex process of information gathering, evaluations, and physical testing, which is why it is important to see an experienced doctor.
Careteam+ pediatrician, Dr. Eugenia Cooper-Merchant, has more than 28 years’ experience treating children. One of her specialties is the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD.
There are many ways to manage this disorder, from therapies to medications. Dr. Cooper-Merchant will assess the aspects of ADHD that are unique to your child and recommend a personalized course of action.
For more information or to determine if your child may have ADHD, contact Careteam+ at 843-234-0005.
All content on this website, including information presented in blogs such as this, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a diagnosis or treatment plan. Seek the advice of a Careteam+ physician on any issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of your family including your children.
