Types and treatment for ADHD in children

Types of ADHD

1. Combined Type (Inattentive/Hyperactive/Impulsive): Children with this type of ADHD show all three symptoms. This is the most common form of ADHD.
2. Hyperactive Type: Children are naturally quite active, kids with hyperactive symptoms of attention deficit disorder are always moving and try to do several things at once. Sitting still can be very difficult for them. Other symptoms include –

-       Constantly fidgets and squirms

-       Often leaves his or her seat in situations where sitting quietly is expected

-       Moves around constantly, often runs or climbs inappropriately

-       Talks excessively

-       Has difficulty playing quietly or relaxing

-       Is always “on the go,” as if driven by a motor

-       May have a quick temper or a “short fuse”

3. Impulsive Type: Children with impulsive signs and symptoms of ADD/ADHD have problems with self-control. They also tend to be moody and to overreact emotionally. As a result, others may start to view the child as disrespectful, weird, or needy. Other symptoms include –

-       Acts without thinking

-       Blurts out answers in class without waiting to be called on or hear the  whole question

-       Can’t wait for his or her turn in line or in games

-       Says the wrong thing at the wrong time

-       Often interrupts others

-       Intrudes on other people’s conversations or games

-       Inability to keep powerful emotions in check, resulting in angry     

outbursts or temper tantrums

-       Guesses, rather than taking time to solve a problem

4. Inattentive Type. These children are not overly active. They do not disrupt the classroom or other activities, so their symptoms might not be noticed. They have trouble concentrating if there are things going on around them; and need a calm, quiet environment in order to stay focused. Other symptoms include –

-       Doesn’t pay attention to details

-       Makes careless mistakes

-       Has trouble staying focused; is easily distracted

-       Appears not to listen when spoken to

-       Has difficulty remembering things and following instructions

-       Has trouble staying organized, planning ahead, and finishing projects

-       Gets bored with a task before it’s completed

-       Frequently loses or misplaces homework, books, toys, or other items

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Treatment for ADHD

• Medication for ADHD –

ADHD medicines are available in short-acting (immediate-release), intermediate-acting, and long-acting forms. It may take some time for a physician to find the best medication, dosage, and schedule for an individual with ADHD. ADHD drugs sometimes have side effects, but these tend to happen early in treatment. Usually, side effects are mild and short-lived

• Behavioural Treatments for Children With ADHD

Behavioural treatment for children with ADHD involves adjusting the environment to promote more successful social interactions. Such adjustments include creating more structure, encouraging routines, and clearly stating expectations of the child with ADHD.

• Other forms of ADHD treatment include:

-       Social skills training - This can help a child with ADHD learn behaviours that will help them develop and maintain social relationships.

-       Support groups and parenting skills training - Education and support for the parents can be an integral part of treating ADHD in children.

A combination of treatments may prove to be far more effective than just type of treatment.