Adhd interrupting conversations
8 Strategies for Navigating Common Conversation Stumbles in ADHD
People with ADHD have a hard time with conversation. They might get distracted and lose track of what the other person is saying. They might ramble, and monopolize the conversation, said psychotherapist Terry Matlen, ACSW.
They might interrupt. They might stand too close to the person they’re talking to. They might monitor everything they say because of past social slipups, said Stephanie Sarkis, Ph.D, a psychotherapist and author of several books on ADHD, including 10 Simple Solutions to Adult ADD.
The good news is that these potential stumbles have solutions. Being able to connect with others and navigate social situations takes learning a few new tools and practicing them regularly.
Below, Sarkis and Matlen shared eight strategies to try.
1. Ask questions.
“People, in general, like to talk about themselves,” said Matlen, also author of the book Survival Tips for Women with AD/HD. Engage individuals by asking them questions about their lives, work and family, she said. Just keep the conversation balanced by also “talking about yourself or the topic at hand.”
2. Watch another person’s mouth.
If your own thoughts keep distracting you, watch the mouth of the person you’re talking to, Matlen said. Doing so involves the senses of sight and hearing. “The more senses you involve, the easier it is to attend and stay connected.”
3. Change your environment.
“[M]any with ADHD are extremely hypersensitive to their environment,” Matlen said. This makes it tough to filter out noise at parties and actually focus on what people are saying to you, she said. In those instances, tell the person that you’d love to hear what they’re saying and that “it’s important to you.” Then suggest moving to a quieter room, she said.
4. Be honest.
People with ADHD tend to interrupt others because they’re afraid of forgetting their point.
To navigate this potential problem, just be honest. “[S]ay that you have something to share that you don’t want to forget, yet you don’t want to interrupt,” Matlen said. “This puts the other person on alert as to why you need time to interject your thoughts before forgetting them.”
You don’t need to say anything about having ADHD. But you might mention that you’re easily forgetful.
Or just let yourself forget. “There’s a good chance it will come to you later, in which case you can then call or email him or her.”
5. Practice conversations with someone you trust.
“Practice having a conversation with a good friend or relative, someone who cares and understands you and your ADHD,” Matlen said. Avoid what she called “toxic help,” or people who continually criticize you.
Practice chatting about different topics, and ask for honest feedback. For instance, you might ask, “Are you giving him or her enough time to be part of the conversation? Are you going off [on] too many tangents or directions?”
It’s also helpful to practice proper distance during conversations.
Again, people with ADHD have trouble judging how far is far enough between them and their conversation partner.
Sarkis suggested getting a hula-hoop, which serves as a helpful visual representation of appropriate distance. “Practice conversation role-plays with the hula-hoop between you and your conversation partner.”
6. Use a secret signal.
Another way you can ask a loved one for help is by having “a non-verbal signal worked out between the two of you.” Sarkis said. “For example, when your friend or family member tugs on their earlobe, that’s a sign that you need to wrap up your story.”
7. Pay attention to how others handle conversations.
For instance, watch a person’s pacing, Matlen said. “Notice how each person pauses, giving the other person time to participate.”
8. Use a fidget.
“Many people with ADHD seem to think faster than they can talk, even faster than the other person can get their point across, and they can get annoyed, impatient and irritated,” Matlen said.
Using a fidget, such as a small ball you can squeeze, helps you focus and calm yourself when you get distracted or want to interrupt the other person, she said.
In addition to the above strategies, medication also helps. “Medications for ADHD, when working optimally, can help increase focus during conversations, and can help people with ADHD stay on topic during conversations,” Sarkis said. “They also provide time to think about something before saying it.”
ADHD & Interrupting
Neurotypical people might butt in a conversation from time to time if they feel too excited about the topic. But, for many people with ADHD, butting in or interrupting people can become a significant issue that can affect interpersonal relationships. How can you manage your impulse of interrupting people when they are talking? Find out here.
ADHD & Interrupting: People And Conversations
1. If I Interrupted You, My Apologies. It Wasn't My Intention
2.
Getting Punished And Having Disciplinary Actions
3. It Takes One Good Friend To Make It Better
4. The Guilt And Shame of Having This ADHD Symptom
5. The Life-Changing ADHD Diagnosis
6. Hey, Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself 😘
7. Things You Can Do For People To Understand That Your Impulsivity Is A Symptom
ADHD & Interrupting People FAQs
One of the things I sometimes feel ashamed about in having ADHD is my impulsive behavior of cutting people off when they are talking or busy doing something. I want their full attention on me when I try to say something out of my head. Before having my ADHD diagnosis, I tend to suffer a lot from this ADHD trait, and I didn’t understand how my brain works.
Impulsivity can be defined as doing something as soon as we have the urge to do it and not think about the consequences.
Our impulsive behaviors can cause us to do many things without carefully weighing the pros and cons. Such behaviors include making impulsive purchases, saying yes to extreme activities, and driving recklessly. It can also make us act without thinking about how our words or actions might affect others negatively. For many people with ADHD, impulsivity is one of the main symptoms we have to deal with daily. 😔
As someone who wasn't diagnosed yet with ADHD during my earlier years, I didn't notice that I tend to interrupt people. It didn't occur to me that what I was doing was rude until someone pointed it out to me and made me realize that cutting people and conversations so that I can speak can make someone feel bad.
If I Interrupted You, My Apologies. It Wasn't My Intention 😔When I was young, I often saw my parents assisting guests and relatives during family gatherings to make them feel more comfortable.
They often entertain them and have a little chit chat with them to make them feel more welcome. As a kid, I didn't understand these concepts yet and had a hard time grasping why my parents were talking to them when there were more important things that we could do. I didn't know that they were trying to be polite and make our guests feel comfortable.
What I would do is interrupt them so that they would shift their attention to me. Sometimes, as a child, I'd listen to their conversations and butt in when I could. My parents would smile and excuse me for a moment, then explain that what I am doing is rude. 🥺 Back in our days, children weren't supposed to listen to the adults when they were talking. More so, interrupt their conversation.
There were so many questions in my brain about those incidents at that time. I felt like I was so annoying back then and let my parents down because of my behavior. The same situation happens at school as well.
Getting Punished And Having Disciplinary ActionsDuring junior school, my teacher discussed an essential topic in our subject, mathematics. As someone who wasn't mathematically inclined and struggled a lot with numbers, the first thing that came to mind is to be honest and tell the teacher to repeat what she just said in the hopes that I could understand it better. But, I knew that once I asked her to do so, my classmates would make fun of me and label me as a 'slow learner.'
So instead of saying that, I would blurt out random answers 🙋♀️ and hoped that the teacher would get the message that I didn't understand what she was trying to say. The trouble I had in understanding her lesson made me act out and disrupt the class. Because of that, I always felt anxious and took deep breaths, and then interrupted her when she's talking. I got scolded and have had so many disciplinary actions because of my impulsive behavior throughout my school years.
It dawned on me that what I was doing was wrong when our teacher called my parents to explain my "bad behavior" in school. I often get some remarks about how good I am, BUT there's something off with me.
It Takes One Good Friend To Make It BetterWhen I feel down and think like everything goes against my way, I often take long walks and get upset about my behavior. The things that are happening weren't my intention, and these interruptions and impulsive behavior of mine are just a manifestation of something bigger inside my brain.
I lose track of my focus, and my struggles last a long time. That's when I shared my social situations with a good friend, who I trust the most. ❤️ She admitted that she was a victim of my tendency to interrupt people, and she thought I had no idea about it. She told me that she was worried about me and my impulsive behavior.
At first, I was afraid because I could feel her disappointment in me.
But, as we talked more about it, she shared some tips on how I can control my urges to butt in and interrupt people's conversation. She told me that cutting off people while they are conversing with each other can be rude, especially if you're not part of the discussion.
The Guilt And Shame of Having This ADHD SymptomAfter that “confrontation” with my friend, I admit that I felt off when she told me about my apparent behavior of interrupting people. I know it's for my awareness, and she was just concerned with me and the relationships I had with my family and friends if I continued having this kind of behavior.
I was afraid that I might lose friends or that people would start to get distant from me because of my social awkwardness. The guilt and shame I felt inside grew even more, and I felt distant because I was masking this trait that I had developed.
I grew impatient when I wanted to talk and blurt out words without thinking about them first.
Without having the knowledge and reason as to why this impulsivity keeps on happening, I started to seek more helpful advice 👩⚕️ and strategies to prevent these things from recurring. My mental health was affected because I don't know where I should stand. Should I just watch people talk with each other and never butt in to prevent hurting their feelings? Or should I release all the energy I have by participating in the discussion?
The Life-Changing ADHD DiagnosisAfter years of struggle, self-reflection, and too many questions left in my head, I decided to take an ADHD diagnosis to help me understand my mental health. I didn't have the slightest idea about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and the related symptoms a person can experience. I trusted my instinct and went straight to my mental health professional.
After a few sessions and interviews, I was welcomed to the ADHD community. 😘
The relief that I felt after the diagnosis was overwhelming. The doctor explained to me all the ADHD symptoms that I am going through, and from there, I realized that impulsivity can be one of the most common traits a person with ADHD can experience. I was categorized with the Combined ADHD Type. It means that I have Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentations and Inattentive Traits as well.
The explanations and additional information that I obtained gave me such relief that I felt a huge weight was off of my shoulders. Other things made much more sense now, especially since I understand that what I exhibit isn't just a "bad habit" but a symptom of my mental health condition. I know that it will be a long road ahead, but I am more than willing to take on the challenge.
😉
Hey, Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself 😘One thing that I learned after having a lead on what I struggle with is that these behaviors are typical to many people with ADHD. It doesn't make me feel any better, but it made me realize that I shouldn't be too hard whenever I make a mistake or say something that I shouldn't have.
Knowing the struggles of many people with ADHD also makes me understand more about what I should do to manage my impulsivity. I started to be more patient with myself and the people around me. I try to take a step back and think about what I want to say next before saying it aloud.
I know that there will be days or moments wherein my ADHD symptoms would get the best of me, but as long as I am continuously improving and striving to become a better version of myself, I know that I am on the right track.
Things You Can Do For People To Understand That Your Impulsivity Is A SymptomAfter recalling my stories while I was writing this blog, I thought of what I should have done to express myself better and prevent myself from interrupting conversations.
I realized that to have better relationships with people around you, having good communication is the key. 💪
Here are some tips that I want to share with you in case you experience the same struggle as mine:
- When you notice that you have interrupted conversations with others, acknowledge that you have done so and apologize.
- To manage your impulsive talking, try to practice thinking first before saying anything. You can also try breathing exercises or other relaxation techniques to calm yourself down.
- It would also be helpful if you let the person know that you have ADHD or any other mental health condition and you have the tendency to struggle with impulsive talking.
- Lastly, don't be too hard on yourself. Remember that you are doing your best, which matters the most.
People with ADHD are sometimes labeled as "disruptive" or "annoying" when we are just trying to cope with our neurodivergent condition the best way we can.
So the next time you encounter someone with ADHD, try to be more understanding and patient. We are all fighting our own battles, so a little kindness can go a long way. ❤️
ADHD and Interrupting People: FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Do people with ADHD tend to interrupt people? Why does it happen?
Many people with ADHD have hyperactive-impulsive traits. That means they might do things without thinking too much about the consequences of their actions. Butting in a conversation or interrupting people can be a manifestation of their impulsivity.
2. Why is interrupting people a concern?
Frequently interrupting people or butting in their conversation can be a problem because it might cause misunderstandings. When you interrupt people, they might feel like you think lightly of their opinion so much so that you don’t give them the chance to talk. The misunderstandings can cause problems in interpersonal relationships.
3. What should I do to stop myself from interrupting people when they are talking?
If you haven’t already done so, please consult a mental health expert. They might give you an ADHD diagnosis and explain that your impulsive talking is one of its symptoms. If you already know that you have ADHD, it might be a good idea to let people know about your condition. Communicate with them that you might have the tendency to interrupt, but it’s not your intention to offend them.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
While the causes of ADHD are not fully understood, help for children and adults who suffer from this disorder remains relevant. If we look at the signs of ADHD in detail, we can see a problem that is associated with listening / obedience. This is expressed in the fact that the child shouts out answers to unfinished questions, interrupts the actions of the interlocutor, and monopolizes the conversation.
A child who seeks to assume a clearly dominant position in any situation is a bad listener.
First of all, listening requires sufficient mastery of your body and its interaction with the environment. Movement of the hands, restlessness in one place, inability to wait for one's turn, very easy distractibility - all these indicators indicate that the listening process is not perfect. Our brain will not be focused to work if it has to spend energy on bodily functions that should not be spent on a lot of conscious control.
If you are hypersensitive to sounds, lights, or the smallest environmental stimuli, chances are you will have trouble completing certain tasks, especially when you feel like you are literally being bombarded with information from all directions at once. A good listener first it is required that all functions of the body be synchronized. In fact, productive listening/behavior requires good sensory integration.
Discussions about ADHD pay very little attention to the lack of sensory integration, which is one of the possible causes of impairment. Anna Jean Ayres, the founder of sensory integration, argued that poor sensory integration leads to hyperactivity and poor attention.
She assured that all these problems arise when the vestibular apparatus does not function well.
Properly modulated vestibular action is essential for maintaining a calm and alert state. In addition, the vestibular apparatus helps to keep the level of excitation of the nervous system in balance. An underactive vestibular system contributes to hyperactivity and quick distractibility.
There are two reasons why the vestibular apparatus is unable to integrate sensory information:
1. The vestibular apparatus is overloaded with too much information. To cope with this problem, we must restore the ability to selectively "turn off" some sounds and "switch" to information that is important for us to receive learning and social skills.
2. The vestibular apparatus does not receive sufficient stimulation for optimal brain function. In this case, we make up for the lack of stimulation with body movements: if they are children, they are restlessly twitching their arms, jumping up and down on the couch, running down the aisles of the supermarket, despite the fact that those around them do not approve of their behavior.
Adults compensate for their energy by running 20 km a day, jumping off a bridge, being constantly on the move and often feeling thirsty due to excitement.
Behavioral changes
Behavioral changes can occur at any age and can be caused by various causes: illness, accident, stress or depression. These changes can begin at different stages of life: perinatal, childhood, adolescence, and even adulthood. This can lead to catastrophic consequences for children of preschool and school age, students and business people in their professional activities.
Symptoms of change in behavior:
✔ The child is more mobile than his peers, he has an attention deficit.
✔ The child started walking late.
✔ The child can only play with interest for a short time.
✔ The child does not hear well and needs to be repeated several times.
✔ It is difficult for a child to concentrate on anything and remember.
✔ The child has speech understanding problems, tone differences.
The child has dysgraphia and dyslexia.
✔ The child cannot adapt to the social environment.
✔ The child is not motivated.
✔ The child lacks energy and intrinsic motivation.
✔ The child has poor motor skills, balance and coordination problems.
Success depends on what you hear
For many people, being successful is one of the important goals of life. Each of us defines success in our own way, but many of us want almost the same thing: good performance at school, fulfillment in professional activities, in communication with the outside world. By and large, success lies in the ability to communicate with people. The ability to communicate lies in purposeful listening. In terms of quality, the ability to listen is the most important form of verbal communication.
Studies have shown that out of total verbal communication time:
✔ 45% listening
✔ 30% speaking
✔ 16% reading
✔ 9% writing
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a chronic condition that affects millions of children and often persists into adulthood.
ADHD includes a range of problems such as difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior.
Children with ADHD may also experience low self-esteem, relationship problems, and poor school performance. Symptoms sometimes decrease with age. However, some people never completely get rid of their ADHD symptoms. But they can learn ways to manage the condition and reduce symptoms.
Treatment will not completely cure ADHD, but it can help manage most of the symptoms. Treatment usually includes medication and behavioral interventions. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly affect the outcome.
Symptoms
ADHD used to be called attention deficit disorder. Currently, ADHD is the preferred term because it describes the main symptoms of this condition: inattention and hyperactive, impulsive behavior. In some children, signs of ADHD are noticeable as early as 2 or 3 years of age.
Signs and symptoms of ADHD may include:
-Child has difficulty concentrating.
- Children often dream.
- Difficulty in following instructions.
- Often the child has problems organizing lessons or other activities.
- Often forgetful and lose things like books, pencils or toys.
- Frequently fails to complete homework, homework, and other tasks.
- Easily distracted.
- Often fidgets or writhes.
- It is difficult to stay in one place when others are sitting, they need constant movement.
- Excessively talkative.
- Often interrupts or intrudes into other people's conversations or games.
- It is often difficult to wait in line.
ADHD is more common in men than in women, and behavior may differ between boys and girls. For example, boys may be more likely to be hyperactive, while girls tend to be inattentive.
Normal behavior and ADHD
Most healthy children are inattentive, impulsive or hyperactive at times. It is normal for preschoolers to have little concentration and be unable to complete one activity for a long time.
Even in older children and adolescents, attention span often depends on their level of interest.
The same goes for hyperactivity. Young children are energetic. Parents begin to pick them up long before they get tired. In addition, some children are born with a higher level of activity than others. Children should never be seen as having ADHD just because they are different from their friends or siblings.
Children who have problems at school but get along well at home or with friends are likely to have problems with something other than ADHD. The same is true for children who are hyperactive or inattentive at home but do well in school and have no problem making friends.
When to see a doctor
If you are concerned that your child has signs of ADHD, contact your pediatrician or family doctor. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, but an initial medical evaluation is important to determine other possible causes of your child's difficulty.
If your child is already being treated for ADHD, then he or she should see a doctor regularly until symptoms improve significantly, and then every three to four months if symptoms still persist.
Call the doctor if your child has side effects from any medication, such as loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, increased irritability, or if treatment has not shown significant improvement since treatment began.
Causes
While the exact cause of ADHD has not been clarified, research continues. Many factors are involved in the development of ADHD. This disease can also be hereditary - studies show that genes may play a role in causing it. Certain environmental factors can also increase the risk of central nervous system problems at key developmental times.
Risk factors
Risk factors for ADHD may include:
- Blood relatives (eg parents or siblings) with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or other psychiatric disorders.
- Exposure to environmental toxins - such as lead, found mainly in the paint and pipes of old buildings.
- Use of drugs, alcohol or smoking during pregnancy.
- Maternal exposure to environmental poisons - such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) - during pregnancy.
- Premature birth.
Although sugar is a popular suspect in causing hyperactivity, there is no reliable evidence for this. Many things in childhood can lead to difficulty concentrating. But it's not the same as ADHD.
Complications
ADHD can make life difficult for children. Children with ADHD:
- Often fight in class and this can lead to academic failure and judgment from other children and adults.
-Children are generally more susceptible to accidents and injuries of all kinds than children who do not have the disorder.
-Children often have low self-esteem.
-They are more likely to have problems communicating and being perceived by peers and adults.
-Children are at increased risk of alcohol and drug abuse and illegal activities.
Comorbidities
ADHD does not cause other psychological or developmental problems.
However, children with ADHD are more likely than other children to have conditions such as:
- Learning disabilities which include problems with understanding and communication.
- Anxiety disorders which can cause depression, nervousness, and worsening of ADHD symptoms until the anxiety is treated and controlled.
- Depression , which is common in children with ADHD.
- Bipolar disorder which includes depression, manic behavior.
- Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), is typically characterized as a pattern of negative, openly disobeying, hostile behavior towards authority.
- Conduct disorder . For example, stealing, fighting, destroying property, and harming people or animals.
- Tourette syndrome neurological disorder characterized by
repetitive muscular or vocal tics.
Preparing to meet the doctor
You will probably take your child to the family doctor or pediatrician. Depending on the results of the initial assessment, your doctor may refer you to a specialist such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or pediatric neurologist.
What you can do to prepare for your appointment:
Make a list of any symptoms and difficulties your child has at home or at school.
Prepare key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.
Make a list of all medications and any vitamins, herbs, or supplements your child takes.
Bring any past grades and official test results with you, if available.
Make a list of questions to ask your doctor.
An example of some basic questions you could ask your doctor:
Other than ADHD, what are the possible causes of my child's symptoms?
What tests does my child need?
What treatment is available and what do you recommend?
What alternative to the main approach in treatment that you can offer?
My child has other medical conditions. How can I better manage these illnesses together?
Should my child see a specialist?
What side effects can be expected from drugs?
What sites would you recommend? What printed materials can help me?
Feel free to ask questions anytime you don't understand something.
Be prepared to answer the doctor's questions. He may ask you:
When did you first notice your child's behavior problem?
Does anxiety behavior occur all the time or only in certain situations?
How serious are your child's problems?
What do you think makes your child's behavior worse?
What do you think could improve your child's behaviour?
Does your child use caffeine? How much?
How many hours does the child sleep and how good is his sleep?
What is your child's current and past school performance?
Does your child read at home? Does he or she have trouble reading?
What discipline methods do you use at home? Which ones are effective?
Describe who lives at home and a typical daily routine.
Tests and Diagnosis
A child should not be diagnosed with ADHD at all, unless the underlying symptoms of ADHD begin early in life and consistently create significant problems at home and school.
There are no specific tests for ADHD, but a diagnosis is likely to include:
Physical examination to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
Collection of information , any current medical issues, personal and family medical history, school records.
Interview or questionnaires for family members, your child's teacher, or other people who know the child, such as babysitters and coaches.
The ADHD Assessment Scale, which helps you collect and evaluate information about your child.
ADHD Diagnostic Criteria
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, a child must meet the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association. For a diagnosis of ADHD, a child must have six or more signs and symptoms in one or two of the categories below.
Inattention
- Often fails to pay close attention to detail or makes careless mistakes in school assignments and other activities.
- Often has difficulty concentrating in class or at play.
- Often the child does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
- The child often seems not to follow instructions and finds it difficult to complete school or homework.
- Often has difficulty organizing lessons and other activities.
- Frequently avoids, dislikes or does not want to engage in tasks that require prolonged mental effort, such as homework or chores.
- Often loses things (eg toys, schoolwork, pencils, books)
- Often and easily distracted.
- Often inattentive in daily activities.
Hyperactivity and impulsivity
- Frequently moves arms or legs or cannot sit still.
- Often cannot sit in one place in class or in other situations when others are sitting.
- Often frolicking or climbing too high in inopportune situations.
- Often has problems in playing activities or cannot spend quiet free time.
- Often "on the move" or often acting like "with the engine running"
- Often talking too much.
- Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
- Often has difficulty waiting in line.
- Frequently interrupts or intrudes on other people's conversations or games.
In addition, a child with ADHD must have at least 6 signs or symptoms from these two categories:
Inattention or hyperactive-impulsive signs and symptoms that cause the condition to worsen.
Behavior that is not normal for children of the same age who do not have ADHD.
Symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
Symptoms that affect life at school, at home, or relationships in more than one environment (for example, having problems at home and at school at the same time)
A child diagnosed with ADHD is often given a more specific diagnosis (subtype), such as:
Predominantly inattentive type of ADHD . The child has
at least six signs and symptoms of inattention from the list above. This child can sit still and seem to get along with others, but he or she has difficulty concentrating.
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD . The child has at least six signs and symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity from the list above. This may be an underestimated emotional or disciplinary issue.
Combined types of ADHD . The child has six or more signs and symptoms from each of the two lists above.
Other disorders that resemble ADHD:
A number of disorders or their treatments can cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms or coexist with ADHD.
For example:
Speech or learning problems
Mood disorders (eg depression)
Anxiety disorders 9Ol000 ADHD can sometimes appear in preschoolers and even younger children, it is difficult to diagnose the disorder in very young children. Because developmental problems such as speech delay can be mistaken for ADHD. For this reason, children of preschool age or younger who are suspected to have ADHD are likely to need an assessment by a specialist, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, speech therapist, or pediatrician.
Treatment and medication
Standard treatment for ADHD in children includes medication, education, exercise and counseling. Such treatment can reduce many of the symptoms of ADHD, but it does not cure it. It may take some time to figure out what works best for your child.
Stimulant drugs
Currently, stimulant drugs (psychostimulants) are the most common drug of choice for ADHD. Stimulants increase the levels and balance of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. These drugs help improve the signs and symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity.
For example, methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin and others), dextroamphetamine (Dehedrine), dextroamphetamineamphetamine (Adderalle).
The correct dose is selected strictly individually for each child, so it may take some time to find the right dose. And the dose may need to be adjusted if significant side effects occur or as your child matures. Ask your doctor about possible side effects of stimulants.
Stimulant drugs and heart problems
Although rare, a few cardiovascular-related deaths have occurred in children and adolescents taking stimulant drugs. The likelihood of an increased risk of sudden death has not yet been proven, but if it exists, it is in people who already have an underlying heart disease or heart disease. Your child's doctor must make sure that the child does not have any signs of heart disease.
Other drugs
Other drugs used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine and antidepressants such as bupropion and desipramine. Clonidine and guanfacine have also shown to be effective. Atomoxetine and antidepressants work more slowly than stimulants and may take several weeks before they take full effect. They may be a good option if your child is unable to take stimulants due to health problems or if stimulants cause serious side effects.
Ask your doctor about any possible side effects of medicines.
Risk of suicide
Although this remains unproven, the issue has been raised.
Children and adolescents taking medications such as antidepressants may be at a slightly increased risk of suicidal thoughts. Contact your child's doctor if you notice any signs of suicidal thoughts or other signs of depression.
Medication safety
It is important to make sure your child is taking the correct amount of prescribed medication. Parents may be concerned about stimulants and the risk of drug abuse and addiction. Dependence has not been proven in children who take these drugs as indicated and at the correct dose.
On the other hand, there are concerns that siblings or classmates of children and adolescents with ADHD may abuse stimulant drugs. Keep your child's medicines safe and make sure your child gets the right dose at the right time:
Give medicine carefully. Children and adolescents should not be held responsible for their own ADHD medications without proper supervision.
Keep medicines locked up and out of the reach of children at home .
Drug overdose is serious and potentially fatal in children.
Do not give medicine supplies to school with a child . Any medication will be delivered by the school nurse or appropriate service.
ADHD behavior therapy and counseling
Children with ADHD often benefit from behavioral therapy and counseling, which can be provided by a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or other mental health professional. Some children with ADHD may also have other medical conditions, such as anxiety or depression. In these cases, counseling can help both ADHD and the conditions listed.
Examples of therapy include:
Behavior Therapy . Teachers and parents can learn ways to improve behavior to deal with difficult situations. These methods may include symbolic reward systems and breaks.
Psychotherapy. This allows older children with ADHD to talk about issues that bother them, explore negative behaviors and learn to manage their symptoms.
Education in learning skills. This can help parents develop ways to understand and guide their child's behavior.
Family therapy. Family therapy can help parents and siblings cope with the stress of living with someone who has ADHD.
Social skills training . This can help children learn appropriate social behavior.
The best results usually occur where a team approach is used, with teachers, parents and clinicians working together. It is important to research ADHD yourself and then work with your child's teachers and refer to reliable sources of information to support their classroom efforts.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Because ADHD is a complex problem and each child with ADHD is unique, it is difficult to make recommendations that will work for each child. But some of the following suggestions can help create an environment in which your child can thrive.
Children at home
Give your child lots of love.
Children need reassurance that they are loved and appreciated. Focusing only on the negative aspects of your child's behavior can harm your relationship, and can affect the child's self-confidence and self-esteem. If your little one is having a difficult time accepting verbal signs of affection, a smile, a pat on the shoulder, or a hug can show that you care. Find ways in which you can praise your child regularly. Take time to enjoy your child . Make an effort to accept and appreciate the characteristics of the child's character, it is not so difficult. One of the best ways to do this is to just spend time together. This should be a time just for you and your baby, when neither other children nor adults will interfere with your communication. Try to give your child more positive than negative attention each day.
Find ways to improve your child's self-esteem and sense of discipline . Children with ADHD are often very good at art projects, music or dance lessons, martial arts such as karate or taekwondo.
But do not force children to do things that are beyond their capabilities. All children have special talents and interests. Small, consistent successes will help boost your self-esteem.
Organization work . Help your child organize and maintain daily notebook entries and make sure the child has a quiet place to study. A group of things in the child's room should be in a clearly marked place. Try to help your child keep them clean and tidy.
Use simple words and demonstrate when giving instructions to the child. Speak slowly and quietly, and be very specific and specific. Give one indication. Stop and make eye contact with your child before and during your instructions.
Try to keep a regular schedule for meals, naps, and strict bedtimes. Use the large calendar to mark special events that will take place. Children with ADHD have difficulty accepting and adapting to change. Avoid or at least warn your child about sudden transitions from one activity to another.
Make sure your child gets enough rest . Try to keep your child from overworking, because overworking often exacerbates ADHD symptoms.
Recognition of difficult situations. Try to avoid situations that are difficult for your child, such as sitting through long presentations or shopping in malls and supermarkets where there is a huge amount of goods.
Use breaks or appropriate measures to discipline your child. They should be relatively short, but long enough for the child to regain control of himself. Children can also accept the outcome of their choices. The idea is to interrupt or defuse the out-of-control behavior.
Be patient. Try to be patient and calm with your child, even when your child is out of control. If you are calm, then your child will most likely copy the behavior model and become calm too.
Keep in mind for the future. Be realistic about your expectations for improvement. Keep your child's developmental milestones to yourself.
Rest. If you are exhausted and stressed, you become a much less effective parent.
Children in school
Find out about school programs. Take advantage of special programs your school may have for children with ADHD. Schools are required by law to have a program so that children who have disabilities can get the support they need to learn.
Talk to your child's teachers. Stay in close contact with teachers and support their efforts to help your child in school. Rest assured, teachers are closely monitoring your child's work, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient.
Ask if your child can use a computer in class. Children with ADHD may have handwriting problems and sometimes using a computer can help them.
Alternative Medicine
There is not enough research to show that alternative treatments can reduce ADHD symptoms. Before considering any non-traditional therapies, talk to your doctor to determine if the therapy will be safe.
Some non-traditional therapies that have been tried but not yet fully scientifically proven include:
Yoga or meditation. Regular practice of yoga or meditation and relaxation techniques can help children relax and learn discipline, which can help them manage ADHD symptoms.
Special diets . Most diets that have been suggested for ADHD include avoiding foods that increase hyperactivity, such as sugar and common allergens such as wheat, milk, and eggs. Some diets recommend avoiding artificial colors and food additives. So far, studies have not found a consistent relationship between diet and improvement in ADHD symptoms, although there is some evidence that dietary changes may improve the condition. Restricting sugar, however, doesn't seem to help. The use of caffeine as a stimulant for children with ADHD can be dangerous and is not recommended for children.
Vitamin and mineral supplements . While some vitamins and minerals are essential for good health, there is no evidence that additional vitamins or minerals can reduce ADHD symptoms.
"Megadoses" of vitamins - doses that are higher than normal recommended by dietary supplements - can be harmful.
Herbal supplements. There is no evidence that herbal supplements can help ADHD, and some of them may even be harmful.
Biological additives . These products, made from vitamins, trace minerals and other ingredients, are sold as supplements to treat children with ADHD. These products have had little to no research, making them ineffective or possibly potentially harmful.
Essential fatty acids . Fats, which include omega-3 oils, are essential for the full functioning of the brain. Scientists are still studying whether they can improve ADHD symptoms.
Bioneurofeedback . This is called electroencephalographic (EEG) neural feedback. This treatment includes regular sessions during which the child focuses on specific tasks while using a machine that shows brain wave patterns. Theoretically, a child could learn to hold on to the brainwave patterns that are active in the front of the brain - and this would improve ADHD symptoms.
While this treatment looks very promising, more research is needed to see if it works.
Other methods . These may include sensory integration therapy and interactive metronome training. At the moment, there is not enough research to support their effectiveness.
Struggle and support
Caring for a child with ADHD can be challenging for the whole family. Parents can suffer from the behavior of their child, as well as from the reaction of other people to his behavior. The stress of ADHD behavior can lead to marital conflict. These problems can be exacerbated by financial difficulties. ADHD can affect the whole family.
Siblings of a child with ADHD may also experience difficulties. They may be affected by the aggressive behavior of a brother or sister. They may also receive less attention because a child with ADHD requires so much of the parent's time.
Resources
There are many resources at your disposal, such as social services or support groups.
Support groups can often provide helpful information about coping with ADHD. Ask your child's doctor about a support group in your area.
There are also excellent books and guides for parents and teachers, and websites dedicated exclusively to ADHD. But be wary of websites or other resources that offer risky or unproven remedies or that conflict with your doctor's advice.
Coping
Many parents notice patterns in their child's behavior as well as in their own response to the behavior. Both you and your child may need to change their behavior. But changing new habits into old ones is not easy. This will require a lot of hard work. It's important to have realistic expectations. Set small goals for yourself and your child and don't try to change everything at once.
Help with managing ADHD:
Structure your child's life. Structure does not mean rigidity or iron discipline. On the contrary, it means arranging things in such a way that the child's life is as predictable, calm and organized as possible.
Children with ADHD are not very good at accepting change, so following a routine gives them a sense of security as well as improves behavior. Give your child a few minutes to alert - with a countdown - when it is necessary to move from one activity to another.
Maintain positive discipline . Loving discipline that rewards good behavior and discourages destructive actions is the best place to start. In addition, children with ADHD tend to respond well to positive reinforcement. Rewarding or reinforcing new good behavior each time it happens will help stimulate new habits.
Remain calm and set a good example . Set a good example by acting the way you want your child to act. Try to remain patient and in control - even when the child is out of control. If you speak softly and calmly, the child is more likely to calm down too. Learning stress management techniques can help you deal with your own frustrations.
Strive for healthy family relationships .
Relationships between all family members play a big role in managing or changing the behavior of a child with ADHD. Couples who have a strong connection often find it easier to deal with parenting problems than those whose connection is not so strong. This is one reason why it is important for partners to take the time to improve their relationship.
Give yourself a break . If your child has ADHD, give yourself a break now and later. Don't feel guilty if you didn't spend a few hours with your child. You will be a better parent if you rest and relax. And don't be afraid to ask family and friends for help. Make sure babysitters and other people who will be looking after your child are knowledgeable about ADHD and prepared enough to do so.
Prevention
To reduce the risk of ADHD:
During pregnancy, avoid anything that could harm the development of the fetus. Do not drink alcohol, cigarettes or drugs. Avoid exposure to environmental toxins such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
