New Directions: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

According to the National Institute of Health, ADHD is the most frequently diagnosed childhood behavioral disorder, affecting anywhere form three to five percent of school-aged children. Studies have show that there is a strong association between ADHD and poor school performance, low self-esteem, and problematic relationships with teachers, family members, and peers. Children with ADHD often have problems at home, school, or in the community. Some of the main symptoms of ADHD are listed below.

1. Difficulty sustaining attention during tasks or play activities
2. Often doesn't follow directions and fails to finish tasks
3. Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
4. Avoids or dislikes activities requiring sustained mental effort (e.g. schoolwork)
5. Loses things necessary for tasks or activities
6. Easily distracted
7. Often forgetful in daily activities
8. Often fidgets or squirms in their seat, or leaves their seat when staying seated is expected
9. Excessive running or climbing
10. Difficulty playing quietly
11. Always "on the go" as if driven by a motor
12. Excessive talking, or blurts out answers
13. Great difficulty waiting their turn
14. Often interrupts or intrudes on others

If your child displays many or most of these, a qualified mental health professional can help you determine if your child has ADHD or not. At New Directions our staff can help you provide the best care for your child with up-to-date therapeutic interventions, parent skills training, and/or medication management for the symptoms and problems associated with ADHD.

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