Understanding ADHD in Children

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 6.1 million children aged 2-17 years old, living in the United States, has been diagnosed with ADHD. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder, typically first diagnosed in childhood. ADHD can cause abnormally high levels of hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. Many ADHD symptoms such as high activity levels, trouble sitting still, and short attention spans are common in almost all children. It’s important to note that everything that wiggles is not ADHD.

DSM-5-TR Diagnostic Criteria for ADHD:

A. Inattention-six or more of the following symptoms must have been present for at least six months to a degree that’s developmentally inappropriate, and that negatively impacts social and academic activities:

• Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities.
• Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
• Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or other duties.
• Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities.
• Often avoids, dislikes, or is relunctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time.
• Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities, such as keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, cellphone, etc.
• Is often easily distracted.
• Is often forgetful in daily activities.

B. Hyperactivity/Impulsivity-six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity for children up to 6 yrs old; five or more for children up to 17 yrs old. Symptoms must have been present for at least six months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for the child’s developmental level.

• Often fidgets or taps hands/feet and squirms in seat.
• Often leaves his/her seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
• Often runs or climbs where it is not appropriate.
• Often talks excessively.
• Often unable to relax or play quietly.
• Often “on the go”, as if the child is being driven by a motor.
• Often blurts out answers before a question is completed.
• Often has trouble waiting their turn.
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others’ conversations or games.

In addition, the following conditions must be met:

• Symptoms were present before the age of 12 years old.
• Several symptoms are present in two or more settings (school, home, etc).
• There’s clear evidence that symptoms interfere with school/social functioning.
• The symptoms aren’t better explained by another disorder such as mood disorder, anxiety disorder, personality disorder, dissociative disorder, schizophrenia, etc.

Based on the symptoms, 3 types of ADHD can occur:

• Inattentive/Distractible Type: Inattention and distractibility without hyperactivity.
• Impulsive/Hyperactive Type: Impulsive and hyperactive behaviors without inattention and distractibility.
• Combined Type: Impulsive and hyperactive behaviors and inattention and distractibility.

Treatment:

• Medication
• Behavioral Therapy
• Psychological Counseling

If you suspect your child may be suffering with symptoms of ADHD, contact your child’s pediatrician or a licensed mental health professional in your community. These professionals can help coordinate services to have your child appropriately evaluated/tested and diagnosed. They may also be able to discuss the most appropriate treatment approach for your child. For more information, contact our office. 

Happy Parenting!

Alicia Crum, LPC-S