According to studies, worldwide, between 5 and 7% of children are affected by attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD). Because it is essential to diagnose them as soon as possible, Catherine Verdier, psychologist, shows us these signs that help to spot them.
Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which affects a person’s ability to concentrate. It can sometimes be accompanied of inattentionsometimes impulsivity and hyperactivitysometimes of the two behaviors combined. Today we estimate that between 5 and 7% of children would be affected by these attention deficit disorders in the world. But these numbers can be underestimated, because it is not uncommon to miss a diagnosis. In girls in particular, this problem is common: their symptoms are usually less noticeable and sometimes the diagnosis of ADHD is not made.
According Catherine Verdierpsychologist, to detect potential ADHD, you have to be attentive to different signs. For a child who does not present hyperactivity, the disorders will be seen at the level of attention : he may have difficulty maintaining his concentration in games, during homework, or even during a discussion. “At the time of diagnosis, we often ask: ‘Is he losing his things? Are they easily distracted by the external environment?’, as they may struggle with attention to detail and organization”, explains the specialist. In a child with hyperactivity disorder on the other hand, it indicates that it is rather “look at the side of self-control of behavior, and of the child’s impulsiveness. He is a child who runs, who climbs everywhere, who does not stay in place, who is mounted on springs, who finds it difficult to leave the floor and room for others.”.
ADHD: an important disorder to be diagnosed at the earliest
It is often when entry to school what these problems reveal. And not only can concentration difficulties be disabling in the child’s learning, but they also risk making him be late for school. Until they are detected and a name is given to the difficulties encountered by the child, teachers may assume that the student has intellectual disabilities. This is absolutely false! Unfortunately, in all spheres of their livesADHD children can find themselves penalized if the signs of their disorder are not spotted.
“In the family setting, these are children to whom you have to repeat the same thing several times and who tend to exasperate adults. On a social level, they are not in tune with others, they can be very impulsive and find it difficult to give space to others. Compared to themselves, they often devalue themselves, because they see clearly that there is something wrong and that they are not on the same level as the others. If this disorder is not diagnosed very quickly, their self-esteem can take a hit.”
If in doubt, you can seek expert advice
Because self-esteem decreases quickly, and the psychological consequences of a lack of diagnosis can be dramatic, do not hesitate to consult. If in doubt, it is important to talk to a doctor or pediatrician. The latter will be able to refer the child to a neurologist, because they are the ones who make the diagnosis thanks to a whole series of tests.
Then, if necessary, drug treatment can be set up to stimulate the child’s neurons. “I’m not pro-drug, but when you see that a child is suffering or failing at school, do not hesitate to help him”, indicates the psychologist. She continues: “Parents are often opposed to drugs, but they can increase concentration and reduce inattention. The child will feel that he is more concentrated, and the notes will be felt. Afterwards, he will feel better, it’s a positive spiral”.
My child has ADHD, what attitude should I adopt?
As soon as parents notice that their child has ADHD, it is essential that they pay attention to their attitude towards him. Catherine Verdier insists: “They are children who develop anxiety disorders if we do the opposite of what they need. With them, it is necessary to avoid as much as possible to get angry, to get agitated, to punish, because none of this is their fault.”
Benevolence and patience are therefore the watchwords to keep in mind.. The psychologist also recommends always emphasizing what is good in the behavior of the child, this is called positive reinforcement. More practically, you should:
- Knowing how to propose moments of calm and other times of physical activity
- Do not give them several tasks at once to avoid over-stimulation
- Avoid screens as much as possible
- Stand up to them and catch their eyewhen given instructions
Obviously, it happens to all parents to lose patience. Paying attention to always having the right attitude is not an easy task. For the specialist, the main thing is to know your limits. “It’s good that parents can take time for themselves, to be able to protect themselves and have moments to recharge their batteries without the child. Do not hesitate to consult a psychologist either, because positive reinforcement is good, but that is not so easy to apply.”, she advises.
thanks to Catherine Verdier for his valuable advice.
For further,
Discover looking for attention, a Louie Media podcast hosted by Brune Botterowhich follows the journey of Jeff, Sarah, Thomas and Ibrahim, all four diagnosed with ADHD.
Parents will also be able to find out more thanks to the book by Pascale De Coster AD/HD: Helping my child reach their full potential. But ADHD children are not left out, because the illustrated tale by psychologist Ariane Hébert ADHD told to children – I have a What? will allow them to better understand their disorder, and to accept their difference.
Every day, Lina strives to transcribe with the greatest accuracy and relevance possible the news of families, and to inform them about their health and their rights. Curious and…