ADD / ADHD Counseling in Albuquerque, New Mexico
We all know kids who can’t sit still, who never seem to listen, who blurt out inappropriate comments, or don’t follow instructions no matter how clearly you present them.
While it’s normal for kids to forget their homework, daydream during class or act without thinking; inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity are also signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD makes it difficult for a person to inhibit their spontaneous responses, including everything from movement to speech to assertiveness.
Some children with ADHD may be constantly in-motion, bouncing off the walls and disrupting others around them. Other children with ADHD may sit quietly, with their attention miles away.
There are three primary characteristics of ADHD: Inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity. All three aren’t always present in one child. Children with ADHD may:
- Have trouble staying focused or get easily distracted
- Appear not to be listening when spoken to
- Constantly fidget and squirm
- Talk excessively
- Act without thinking
- Interrupt often, or say the wrong thing at the wrong time
- Have a quick temper or “short fuse”
Whether or not your child’s symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity are due to ADHD, they can cause problems if left untreated. Children who can’t focus or control themselves or get into trouble at school often find it hard to make friends. These frustrations can later lead to low self-esteem as well as friction for the whole family.
Treatment can make a dramatic difference in your child’s symptoms. With the right support, your child can get on track for success in all areas of life. If you’re interested in learning more about ADD and ADHD therapy, please contact me today so we can schedule an appointment. I would be happy to share how I can help your child achieve success and grow.
Frequently Asked Questions on ADD/ADHD
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder also known as “ADHD” is an illness commonly found with children. Affected people can have difficulty paying attention, sitting still and or controlling their impulses. Research has shown ADHD may affect specific areas of the brain that enable us to solve problems, plan ahead, understand other people, and control our impulses. It’s true that children and adults are easily distracted at times or have trouble finishing tasks, but this inattention can be a normal response unless it interferes with the individual’s function or relationships. Many children have trouble maintaining their attention; but attention distraction may not be the only cue to ADHD. Other factors must be taken into account, or example, stressful life events and other childhood conditions such as problems with schoolwork caused by a learning disability or anxiety and depression can interfere with attention.
How common is ADHD?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD is found in an estimated 3% – 5% of preschool and school-age children. Therefore, if there are 25 to 30 children in a class, probably at least 1 student will have ADHD. ADHD starts in childhood but can often last well into adulthood. Research also shows an estimated 30% to 65% of children coping with ADHD continue to have their symptoms through adolescence and into adulthood.
What causes ADHD?
Exactly what causes ADHD is still unknown. There seems to be an array of causes, including genetics and environmental influences. A variety of factors could increase a child’s likelihood of having ADHD, such as gender, family history, prenatal risks, environmental toxins and physical differences in the brain; all could play a role.
How can you help?
Therapy can be effective for a child coping with ADHD. The psychotherapy should center on helping parents create structure and positive reinforcement for healthy composed behavior. In addition to this reinforcement, individual therapy can be instrumental in children gaining a better self-image. The therapist can help a child recognize and identify their strengths and build upon them for a solid foundation. Therapy can also support a child with ADHD in managing daily problems, paying better attention, and learning to control frustration and aggression.
What are the consequences of Untreated ADHD?
Without treatment, a child with ADHD may fall behind in school and have trouble with friendships. Family life can also be very difficult as untreated ADHD can strain relations between parents and children. Parents commonly blame themselves when they have difficulty communicating with their child and any sense of losing control can be very deeply frustrating. Teenagers with ADHD are at increased risk for driving accidents. Adults with untreated ADHD have higher rates of divorce and job loss, compared with the general population. Luckily, safe and effective treatments are available which can help children and adults help control the symptoms of ADHD and prevent the unwanted consequences.
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Calls, questions and appointments are welcomed. We’re in Corrales, 8 minutes North of Albuquerque toward Rio Rancho