Have you considered putting your child on ADHD medications, but aren’t sure if you it’s the best move for your family? Check out these questions and corresponding answers as you evaluate your situation.
What does ADHD stand for? ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, which is a common condition that can be shaped with changes in environment and with use of medications. ADHD can impede academic and social performance.
How can you tell if your child has ADHD? There are two main ADHD camps: inattentive ADHD (which is sometimes called ADD) and hyperactive ADHD, although many kids display characteristics from both of these categories. If your child had inattentive ADHD, your child probably has trouble finishing tasks, paying attention, and being responsible. Hyperactive ADHD kids cannot seem to control their bodies or mouths, meaning they have so much energy and so much to say that they end up acting and speaking inappropriately. Many children have both forms of ADHD, meaning they display symptoms from both types of ADHD.
How can you tell if your child has ADHD and needs help? There are many levels of ADHD, so you may want to visit your school guidance counselor, a physician, or a psychiatrist to get a second opinion. If your child is healthy overall, you should be able to try ADHD drugs to see if they will produce the desired results or not. In most cases, children respond positively to ADHD meds immediately, so you’ll know right away (within the first day) if the meds are good for your child or not.
How do ADHD medications work? In most cases, doctors prescribe stimulants for ADHD patients. Interestingly enough, ADHD children respond to these stimulants by actually becoming more mellow instead of more hyperactive, as you’d think they would. These drugs make your brain produce extra epinephrine and dopamine; they also improve blood flow to the brain. The drugs also prevent your uptakers from reabsorping dopamine and epinephrine as quickly, allowing your brain to use these neurotransmitters longer.
How will you know if the ADHD medications are working for your child? If the ADHD medications are working properly, your child will feel good, be able to stick to a task and complete it, and be more relaxed. You may need to play around with dosage to avoid side effects, but overall, you should see an improvement in ability to perform appropriately.
If you suspect your child has ADHD, don’t hesitate to give the medications a try. You’ll quickly know if ADHD medications are best for your child.