ADHD can make life more challenging than it needs to be. Symptoms may begin in childhood, however, they can continue on into adulthood. ADHD isn’t an insurmountable obstacle to leading a successful life. ADHD is treatable. Having ADHD does not have to keep you from reaching your goals, however, early intervention can make a world of difference and remove barriers.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is estimated to affect 5 percent of children, based on surveys made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Other studies conducted by the organization Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) show that ADHD affects 11% of school-aged children.

To support your child through the challenges ADHD presents it can help to have support for yourself as well. ADHD symptoms can be overwhelming not only for your child but for you as well. You aren’t alone, counseling can help.

ADHD: What Is It?

According to CHADD, ADHD was first documented in 1902, and earned several names early on: “minimal brain dysfunction, hyperkinetic reaction of childhood, and attention-deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity.” Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is the current working diagnosis, based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

Inattention is a hallmark symptom, as are impulsivity and hyperactivity. This may lead you to ask, “But isn’t inattention common in most children?” It is true that difficulty paying attention can be common among children, especially toddlers, just like being excitable and active. Because of this it can be difficult to distinguish between “regular” inattention and clinically concerning inattention.

If your young child is excessively inattentive, impulsive, and/ or hyperactive to the point that it causes problems in their daily functioning you may want to look further. If they are consistently having trouble on the playground or at school, they can’t finish school tasks, or they seem to be always losing belongings it may be helpful to consult with a professional.

The Symptoms of ADHD: Is This Your Child?

The symptoms of ADHD are non-specific, meaning they can also be observed in children who don’t have ADHD. This is the reason why you may not recognize them as concerning right away. However, if you notice the following symptoms an assessment with a therapist could be beneficial.

Inattention Symptoms of ADHD:

• Becoming easily distracted
• Difficulty following directions or completing tasks
• Difficulty listening
• Lack of attention and/or making careless mistakes
• Forgetting daily activities
• Difficulty organizing daily tasks
• Difficulty remaining still
• Often losing things
• Frequent daydreaming

Hyperactivity Symptoms of ADHD:

• Often squirming, fidgeting and bounding when trying to sit still
• Inability to stay seated
• Having trouble playing quietly
• Seems to be always moving, such as running or climbing on things (in teens and adults, this is more commonly described as restlessness)
• Talking excessively
• Always “on the go” as if “driven by a motor”

Impulsive Symptoms of ADHD

• Having trouble waiting for their turn
• Blurting out answers
• Frequently interrupting others

Beyond Childhood: Adult ADHD

The symptoms of ADHD usually become evident between ages three to six, when children start attending school and have to sustain focus longer to participate in learning activities. ADHD can also affect adults. Some have had ADHD since they were young but didn’t receive proper diagnosis and treatment. For adults, the symptoms are more variable, and can change significantly over time. These symptoms can include:

• Chronic lateness and forgetfulness
• Anxiety
• Low self-esteem
• Problems at work
• Trouble controlling anger
• Impulsiveness
• Substance abuse or addiction
• Disorganization
• Procrastination
• Easily frustrated
• Chronic boredom
• Trouble concentrating when reading
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Relationship problems

The Outlook

If your child has ADHD, it is natural to wonder how it will impact them later in life. These intrusive symptoms can make life more challenging than it needs to be, however, it doesn’t have to be that way. Some studies do show that left untreated, ADHD can be correlated with lower education levels, lower wages, higher rates of substance abuse and troubled relationships.

This is not surprising due to the nature of symptoms. It can be difficult to be successful in reaching goals when you experience difficulty paying attention and completing tasks. While symptoms may make it difficult, working through these symptoms is not impossible. According to ADHD expert Dr. Bob Myers, it is possible for an individual with ADHD to succeed. Myers believes that ADHD is a “brain difference.” This means that children with the condition have “a different way of learning and experiencing the world” and a different skill set from average children. Thus, to successfully adapt, they have to take advantage of their strengths.

Parenting and ADHD

Parenting can often be likened to riding a roller coaster, ADHD adds some more twists and turns. These symptoms can leave you feeling overwhelmed. It can be hard to know what to do when there are tendencies to get sidetracked and confused, act spontaneously, and behave out of control. This difficulty can increase as your child nears puberty and adolescence, when they experience more challenges.

You don’t have to navigate ADHD on your own, help is available. Seek out someone who understands and can provide expert assistance—a child therapist independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services.

The right counselor will know how to help your child feel understood, safe, and reassured. They can empower you with new skills that work for you and your family. Your child can have a bright future, despite ADHD. Call Carolina Counseling Services — Pinehurst, NC and schedule your first appointment.