Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Common Misconceptions About ADHD

These days, many parents are a bit too quick to self-diagnose their children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, more commonly known as ADHD. Let's face it, children will always be children, despite how well mannered or disciplined they may be. Children are going to lose focus, run rampant around the house and not listen to you on certain occasions. This does not necessarily mean they are ADHD.

Some of the medications used for ADHD and ADD can be harmful to your child, so it is very important to make sure you are helping your child and not hurting them. The most common medication used for children with ADHD is Ritalin. This specific medication comes in many forms and doses. However, side effects may be lack of appetite, restlessness, and in some cases, severe mood swings once the medication wears off. If your physician has diagnosed your child with either ADHD or ADD and has not suggested additional counseling with the use of medication, think about it. In many cases, children are more likely to focus better in and outside of school if what they are focusing on is more appealing to them.

Think about it. Giving  child, especially a younger child medication may make them feel like there is something wrong with them. This is a feeling that many children may harbor or act out upon, making your job as a parent that much harder. If they are having difficulty focusing on their school work, try making their school work more interesting for them. Just remember that as a parent, you are not alone. There are plenty of parents like yourself, facing the same issues. Utilize forums, community groups and workshops to help you through the emotions that a parent goes through while helping their children.

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