If you have a child who is easily distracted and can’t complete simple tasks, then chances are your child has attention problems. When a problem with attention leads to difficulty with learning and constant conflict with family and friends, we call it a disorder.
Attention disorder is very common. It is often inherited from parents. If you need two cups of caffeinated coffee or a Red Bull in the morning, then chances are you have attention disorder. Parents often see attention disorder symptoms as normal. Quite frequently, parents struggle with the same problems. Most parents report having had similar issues in school
ADHD affects 1 in 20 children and adolescents globally. Rates are higher in the United States. It is more common in boys than girls. Girls are often diagnosed later than boys. In recent years, diagnoses have increased, likely due to improved awareness of signs and symptoms and improved access to healthcare. Unfortunately, children in low-income families tend to receive care later than other children.
Symptoms of attention disorder often appear at the age of four or five. Children have a short memory. Parents usually report having to constantly remind children over and again to complete a task. Some children (not all) can’t sit still. These children have difficulty with problem-solving. They resist low-stimulation activities like puzzles and reading.
Attention disorder can be associated with other learning problems. For example, dyslexia is often associated with attention disorder. Children with attention disorders will usually suffer from anxiety. They become very ritualistic. To prevent forgetting, they frequently will perform the same tasks in precisely the same way. Routine is comforting because memory is poor. Attention-disordered children often become very anxious.
Unfortunately, problems with learning often cause low self-esteem. Failure to succeed in school causes many children to give up on learning. Conflict with teachers, peers, and family members causes many children to be defensive and oppositional. They begin to feel as though they can’t be successful. Ultimately, children with untreated disordered attention become unhappy. They internalize feelings of failure. They resist going to school. Constant conflict with parents and teachers will often cause depression.
Attention disorder can be easily diagnosed with simple testing and treated in my office. Diagnosis does not require referral to a specialist. After diagnosis, we recommend a variety of school interventions. Children will qualify for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Medicine is often helpful. Most parents delay treatment for fear that medicine will harm their child. We discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with medicine. Our goal is for every child to be happy and successful. We help parents to make the best decision for their child. A short trial of medicine can often help a parent decide whether medicine is beneficial. Our office is always available to help.