ADHD Brisbane Northside
For a lot of parents in Brisbane, they are forced to address Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in their children from a young age. The first step usually is to consult their GP for a referral to a clinical psychologist to obtain an assessment
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a set of behavioral symptoms that affect children and teens and can continue during adulthood. ADHD is one of the most common behavioral disorder diagnosed among school-age children between 6 to 12 years old as it is the when their environment starts to change. Children with ADHD have difficulties controlling their impulses and may be hyperactive. Because of lack of control, this interferes with their interactions at school and at home.
What are the Symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD can be classified into 3 categories:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
Below are the symptoms for each classification of ADHD:
Inattention
- Easily distracted
- Inability to follow directions
- Has difficulties completing a task
- Does not appear to be listening
- Disorganized on daily activities
- Has difficulties sitting still
- Misplaces or loses things
- Has tendencies to daydream
Hyperactivity
- Often fidgety
- Has difficulties sitting still
- Restlessness and agitation
- Talks excessively
- Always on the go
Impulsivity
- Inability to wait for his or her turn
- Cuts other people when talking
The symptoms of ADHD can change as a person gets older. Apart from the abovementioned behaviors, below are the symptoms can be exhibited:
- Forgetfulness
- Frequently late
- Anxiety
- Self-esteem problems
- Difficulties controlling anger
- Substance abuse
- Procrastination
- Easily frustrated
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Lack of concentration
- Problems with social relations
What Causes ADHD?
The cause of ADHD remains to be unknown. However, if the behavioral disorder is present in at least one family member, there are chances that it can be present in other family members. Apart from the family history, below are some factors that can contribute to having ADHD:
- Being prematurely born
- Low weight during birth
- Mother’s drug abuse or alcohol consumption during pregnancy
- Chemical imbalance in the brain
- Brain injury or disorder
ADHD can affect people of any intellectual capacity but it is mostly seen among those who have learning difficulties.
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
Psychiatrists, psychologists, and paediatricians can diagnose ADHD with standard guidelines using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) and compare the behavior of individual suspected with ADHD as against people of his or her age. Standardized rating scales will also be used to determine the ADHD classification.
Apart from these, a physical exam will be required such as vision screening, hearing screening, electroencephalogram (EEG). Complete medical history will be also be requested by healthcare providers to check for other reasons that can possibly affect the behavior of an individual.
Are There Treatments For ADHD?
There is no cure for ADHD, but it can be managed through educational support, support from family members, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) from behavior professionals, and medication can be provided altogether to an individual with ADHD. It is best to consult professionals for proper diagnosis and intervention to manage ADHD symptoms.
At Ubuntu Medical we offer Personality Disorder Treatment. We also offer other services. For a full list, click HERE.