Headlines: The Truth Behind ADHD

by: Svati K. and Tiffany P.

ADHD is short for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. That is a chronic condition that affects millions of children and often continues into adulthood. Children with ADHD may struggle with low self-esteem, troubled relationships, and poor performance in school. Being diagnosed with ADHD can be scary, and symptoms can be a challenge for parents and children. Some symptoms that some along with ADHD are:

• They often fail to pay close attention to details or make careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities

• Often has trouble paying attention during tasks or play

• Seems not to listen even when spoken to directly

• Has difficulty following through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or other tasks

• Usually has problems organizing tasks or activities

• Avoids or doesn’t like tasks that require a lot of mental effort, such as schoolwork or homework

• Frequently loses needed items, such as books, pencils, toys or tools

• Can be easily distracted

• Often forgetful

But some people also think that pharmacies just make up ADHD to make money and let kids consume hurtful medicines. This is not true.

There's no way to prevent ADHD from occurring, but there are a few steps parents can take that could help prevent problems caused by ADHD to make sure their child is as physically, mentally and emotionally healthy as possible:

• Protect your child from exposure to pollutants and toxins, including cigarette smoke, agricultural or industrial chemicals, and lead paint (found in some old buildings).

• Put together a daily routine for your child with clear expectations that include such things as bedtime, morning time, mealtime, simple chores, and television.

• Work with teachers and caregivers to identify problems early. If your child does have ADHD or another condition that interferes with learning or social interaction, early treatment can reduce the impact of the condition.

Here is an interview where you can read about a student that struggles with ADHD.
1. When did you get first diagnosed with ADHD?
“When I was, around, like 3rd grade”

2. How does ADHD affect you?
“It definitely affects my attention span and I tend to float off. My mouth is faster than my mind is, my mother tells me”

3. How does the medicine you take affect you?
“When I kind of act crazy, my family asks me if I took my medicine. At first I was upset to take medicine, it makes me feel like a completely different person. I used to throw fits when I was little. I went to the doctor in third grade, that’s when I got diagnosed. Without medicine, I wouldn’t be able to do much. I just want people to know I’m the same person when I’m on medicine, I’m just more under control.”

4. What’s the difference between ADHD and ADD?
“With ADHD, you aren’t hyper, you just have a short attention span”

5. Any other comments you want us to know?
“A lot more kids have ADHD than you would think. Some people don’t even believe me that I have it. When I take my medicine, I’m a medicated me, but I’m still the same person”