ADHD(attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) or ADD (attention deficit disorder) is a condition diagnosed in about eight percent of school children nowadays. As the name suggests, children who are affected have a very short attention span and are known to be hyperactive. During the early stages, ADD/ADHD is seldom identified as most parents attribute hyperactivity to the natural energy of a child. If your child has been diagnosed with the condition, then you might feel a bit confused as to what you have to do. The following are some of the most important questions parents should ask the doctor regarding ADD/ADHD.
Are you sure he or she has ADDADHD?
Ask for the reasons the doctor has diagnosed your child with ADD/ADHD. You have to make sure that you are getting the right diagnosis for your child before continuing on any treatment options. Ideally, the diagnosis should be done after a comprehensive view of your child’s history and current status. Interview with parents and teachers are prerequisite as well as a more thorough evaluation of the findings. The fact is that signs of ADD/ADHD can be similar to other disorders so being sure is necessary.
What would be the best treatment method for my child?
First things first, ADD/ADHD can only be managed and not cured. That being said, there are medications that may suppress the impulsiveness and hyperactivity of the child. However, be sure to ask your doctor about the best medication for your child, especially since kids would respond differently to drugs. Parents must also take into consideration if the drugs prescribed for the condition are classified as Schedule II drugs, since the risk of drug abuse is present. Other treatment methods include talking to a specialist who will guide your child through social problems he or she might encounter. Most of the time, social interactions are hard for children with ADHD and these are the things the therapist will work on.
Who can you best recommend for my child’s case?
As a parent, you should be asking you doctor if he or she knows anyone who can work best with your child. Making the right diagnosis doesn’t mean the ability to give sufficient treatment. Consider all the help you can get, and consult support groups or exceptional therapists who would be able to tell you more about the condition.
What about his or her academic pursuits?
ADD/ADHD disorder isn’t really a big hindrance to your child’s learning skill. What matters most are parents and teachers who will be willing to make an extra effort for the child. In truth, the doctor won’t be able to help much when it comes to your child’s education. However, he or she should be able to give suggestions regarding the best people you should approach for your questions.
What can parents do to help?
Make sure to ask about the necessary adjustments you would have to do for your child to lead a normal life. Ideally, you should also read a few books regarding the subject to gain a better understanding of ADD/ADHD. You may also need to be informed of any existing laws that help children diagnosed with this condition. By asking this question, you and the doctor should be able to cover many topics ranging from how to approach your child for homework and studying to what sort of games would be best for them. Family life should also be taken into consideration, specifically with the child’s interaction with his or her siblings.
How much would the medications/treatment cost and would my insurance cover it?
Don’t be afraid to ask about the disorder’s financial needs. Be sure to ask your doctor for specifics since this will prepare you for any cash outflows later on.
Will my child lead a normal life?
Children may or may not respond to the medication required for ADD/ADHD and would need thorough observation before anything else. The drugs necessary for the disorder are classified as Schedule II drugs. With proper treatment and a healthy support system from his or her environment, a child with ADD/ADHD can lead a normal life. When it comes right down to it, your efforts would surely pay off in helping your child learn to grow and adjust well to the various facets of life.
Remember that ADD/ADHD is not caused by bad parenting or even an unhealthy diet. The fact is that ADD/ADHD causes are still uncertain, though possible biological roots have been suggested. For that reason, it may be necessary to have your other kids evaluated in the event that they show the same symptoms. Learn to anticipate the changes in your child as he or she goes through adolescence and adulthood. Having a book that will tell you what you need to know is also an excellent strategy. With sincere efforts from parents, teachers and doctors, children with ADD/ADHD can successfully cope with the symptoms in their adult lives.