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According to a 2016 study performed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.1 million children in the United States between the ages of 2 to 17 have ever been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This figure includes 2.4 million school-age children ages 6 through 11 and 3.3 million adolescents ages 12 through 17. These numbers do not come as a surprise, given that ADHD is among the most common of the neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood among autism and dyslexia.
That being said, it can be difficult to distinguish between symptoms of ADHD and normal child behavior. After all, almost all children occasionally become fidgety during a long event or neglect to finish their homework. That’s why in today’s article, we’ll go over common symptoms of ADHD in children and debunk common myths and misconceptions associated with the disorder. To learn more about ADHD testing and the available treatment options, schedule an appointment with Maulik K. Trivedi, M.D., a child psychiatrist in Brandon.
Related: Parents, Have You Considered Having Your Child Tested for ADHD?
Keep an Eye Out for These Signs and Symptoms
When people think of a child with ADHD, they often think of a defiant child that refuses to comply with rules and has frequent emotional outbursts. The truth is that reality paints a much more complex picture. Some children might express their disorder by being prone to daydreaming, while others may be unable to stay still or quiet for too long. Their symptoms are entirely determined by which characteristics of the disorder predominate — hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattention, or a combination of the three. Here are some examples of symptoms associated with each of these characteristics:
- Inattention: Your child may have trouble staying focused or organized, fail to follow through on instructions, avoid doing tasks that require mental effort, and appear not to listen when being spoken to.
- Hyperactivity: Your child may fidget or squirm in their seat, have a short temper, have difficulty sitting still, talk excessively, or have trouble waiting their turn.
- Impulsivity: Your child may intrude on others’ conversations, interrupt others when speaking, have trouble keeping their emotions in check, or act without thinking.
Related: Caring for a Child With ADHD
Dispelling Common Myths and Misconceptions About ADHD
As with many other health conditions, there are a number of common myths and misconceptions that surround ADHD in children. These misconceptions not only lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, but they also result in these children feeling misunderstood or ostracized. To remove this stigma, let’s discuss a few of the most common myths. First and foremost, as we discussed previously, not all kids with ADHD will exhibit the same symptoms. This means not every child will be hyperactive or unable to pay attention. Additionally, although children with ADHD may often appear disobedient, they’re not acting out on purpose. It’s incredibly difficult to stay still or quiet with a disorder like this.
Last, but certainly not least, it’s incorrect to assume that your child will eventually grow out of ADHD as if it was another childhood phase. This disorder often continues into adulthood, which is why it’s important to seek the appropriate diagnosis and treatment from a psychiatrist in Brandon as soon as possible so that your child may learn to identify and manage their symptoms.
Schedule a consultation with a psychiatrist in Brandon today!
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