You may have ADHD and not even know
Easily bored, overactive imagination and/ or easily-distracted daydreamer? Don't look away, get a diagnosis.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition which includes difficulty in concentration, hyperactivity and whimsicality.
ADHD often begins during childhood and can be persistent, with its symptoms carried into adulthood.
Parents and teachers should look out for the following symptoms in children:
• A child who does not seem to listen when spoken to, or who responds with anger or temper tantrums
• Difficulty in focusing or participating in day-to-day activities
• Continually misplacing or losing toys, school stationery or other items
• Difficulty remembering things and following instructions
• Not taking time to think when required, and guessing at the answer
• Intruding into others’ conversations or games
• Experiencing boredom before completing the task at hand, and being easily distracted
If you recognise a pattern in your child’s behaviour then you should take your child to your medical practitioner for ADHD tests. If your child is diagnosed with this disorder, you can start treatment which consists of talk therapy (offered in support groups) or medication. According to helpguide.org, no two ADHD disorders are the same. For diagnosis, visit a pediatrician, clinical psychologist, a psychiatrist or a medical doctor.
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ADHD in adults is a mental condition manifested by inability to pay attention. It can lead to low self-esteem, unsteady relationships and substandard work performance.
Signs to look out for:
• Feeling sad, irritable and emotional for no reason
• Not wanting to get out of the bed in the morning
• Changed eating patterns and abnormal weight loss or gain
• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Lack of sleep, and restlessness
Drug-free treatments you can undergo:
• Exercise and working out is known to defeat depression, one sweat at a time
• Try to spend time with your loved ones. This could boost your mood and strengthen your relationships
• Join a depression support group. In Krugersdorp you can go to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) at Bell Street Hospital, corner Bell Drive and Shannon Road, Noordheuwel, or contact the group on 072 513 9876.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at krugersdorpnews@caxton.co.za or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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