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ADD/ADHD. Elaine, Abdulky , Lindsey Davenport, Jessica Robbins. Outline. Define ADD/ADHD Statistics-Increasing Diagnoses Signs/Behaviors Treatments Effects of Treatments Conclusion. Definition.
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ADD/ADHD Elaine, Abdulky, Lindsey Davenport, Jessica Robbins
Outline • Define ADD/ADHD • Statistics-Increasing Diagnoses • Signs/Behaviors • Treatments • Effects of Treatments • Conclusion
Definition • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that appears in early childhood. • Also known as attention deficit disorder, or ADD. • ADD/ADHD makes it difficult for people to inhibit their spontaneous responses, that involve everything from movement to speech to attentiveness.
Statistics • Most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder in childhood. • Diagnosed more in males than females. • Rates of ADD/ADHD diagnosis have increased by 3% per year from 1997-2006.
Typical Signs/Behaviors • Signs and symptoms typically appear before the age of seven. • It can be difficult to distinguish between attention deficit disorder and normal “kid behavior.” • If a child exhibits just a few signs, or they only appear in certain situations, it is most likely not ADD/ADHD. • If a child exhibits a number of ADD/ADHD signs and symptoms that are present across all situations (at home, at school, and at play), a closer look should be taken.
Typical Signs/Behaviors • The three primary characteristics of ADD/ADHD are: • Inattention • Hyperactivity • Impulsivity • The signs and symptoms a child with attention deficit disorder has depends on which characteristics predominate. • Children with ADD/ADHD may be: • Inattentive, but not hyperactive or impulsive. • Hyperactive and impulsive, but able to pay attention. • Inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive- most common form.
Typical Signs/Behaviors • Predominately Inattentive Type: • Hard for an individual to finish or organize a task. • Inability to pay attention to details, follow instructions or follow a conversation. • is easily distracted, and forgets details of daily routines.
Typical Signs/Behaviors • Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: • Individual fidgets and talks a lot. • Is not able to sit still for an extended period of time. • Smaller children may run, jump or climb constantly. • Individual feels restless and has trouble with impulsivity. • It is hard for the person to wait their turn or listen to directions.
Typical Signs/Behaviors • Combined Type: • Symptoms of both types are present in the individual.
Mistaken Signs/Behaviors • Just because a child has symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity does not mean that he or she has ADD or ADHD. • Before an accurate diagnosis of ADD / ADHD can be made, see a mental health professional to rule out the following possibilities: • Learning disabilities or problems with reading, writing, motor skills, or language. • Major life events or traumatic experiences (e.g. a recent move, death of a loved one, bullying, divorce). • Psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. • Behavioral disorders such as conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder. • Medical conditions, including thyroid problems, neurological conditions, epilepsy, and sleep disorders.
Treatment • Medication • Behavioral Therapy • Set specific, appropriate goals • Regular follow-up visits with doctor
Medication • Psychostimulants: • Adderall, Focalin, Dexadrine, Dextrostat, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Daytrana. • Non-stimulants: • Strattera
Negative Effects-Medication • Short term effects: loss of appetite, restlessness, mood swings, anxiety, irritability, head aches. • Non-stimulants: gastrointestinal problems. • Long term effects: stunt growth.
Alternative Treatments • If your child struggles with symptoms that look like ADD/ADHD, don’t wait to seek professional help. • You can treat your child’s symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity without having a diagnosis of attention deficit disorder. • Options to start with include getting your child into therapy, implementing a better diet and exercise plan, and modifying the home environment to minimize distractions.
Alternative Treatments • Non-stimulant medications • Herbs, supplements • Establishing concrete behavioral goals • Behavior modification programs/therapy. • Proper nutrition and sleep. • Regular exercise
Track Treatment • Regular visits with doctors, teachers, psychologists. • Make sure improvement in all areas of life. • Keep a consistent daily schedule-eating, homework, play time. • If side effects out weight positive effects-misdiagnosis.
Conclusion • Do not jump to conclusions • Obtain multiple opinions before concrete diagnosis. • Understand treatment for children diagnosed. • Understand treatment for children exhibiting typical signs. • Seek alternative treatments. • Track improvements