ADD is Attention-Deficit Disorder. It is now called as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD results in various difficulties to pay attention and hyperactivity. Hyperactivity may involve strong emotional behaviors and madcap reactions. ADD is one of the most studied psychiatric disorder in children. Attention-Deficit Disorder affects about 3-5% children globally who were diagnosed within 7 years of age. Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in 30-50% children lasts till their adulthood.
Various Communication problems associated with ADHD are listed below:
- The child lacks concentration. So he misses important details, forgets what to say and deviates from topics very often.
- The child lacks patience to hear, understand and respond to someone.
- The child easily loses his things like- pen, pencil etc. So he fears talking about it.
- The child moves slowly without understanding the reason of walking or running.
- The child gets easily confused with small things. So he does not argue or listen to others for long.
- The child struggles to follow any instruction and feels difficult to act.
- The child may talk non stop, but his talks might appear meaningless.
The above mentioned points make the life of the child highly chaotic. If this condition lasts till adulthood, then it affects the daily activity. Several methods are adopted to treat ADD or ADHD symptoms. They are:
Medications:
Stimulant Medication:
This is the most common form of ADD treatment. It uses the below medications:
Antipsychotic Medication:
This kind of medication is most commonly used in children. But these may show side effects like- weight gain, , diabetes, heart problems and few movement disorders. Methylphenidate (a psychostimulant drug) is also approved for treating Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Other Non-Stimulant Medication:
Atomoxetine is the only approved non-stimulant drug. Another non-stimulant drug is modafinil.
Psychological Therapies to treat ADHD include Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent Management Training, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Psychoeducational approach and Family Therapy . Family Therapy is found to be quite beneficial. It involves all family members, peers and relatives in the treatment procedure, which teaches attachment and relationship. Behavior Therapy is the method of treating depression, phobias, anxiety, phobias, and other psychological problems. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is also a psychological therapy to solve abnormal emotions, unhealthy behaviors and cognitions (perception, learning and reasoning). Interpersonal Psychotherapy is focuses on boosting the interpersonal skills.
