Does your child have AD/HD or something else?
Are you preparing to have your child evaluated for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD)? If so, you may be aware that there is currently no medical test available to diagnose the condition. Much of your child's assessment will be based on information you, your spouse, caregivers, and teachers provide. You will be asked specific questions about your child's health, behavior, and school performance. Your answers will greatly assist the doctor in making a correct diagnosis.
To prepare for the evaluation, take a holistic (whole) view of your child. AD/HD can cause behavior that appears inattentive, impulsive, or hyperactive — or any combination of these. But there are many other conditions and situations that can cause behavior that looks like AD/HD. When you give the doctor a holistic view of your child, he may then pinpoint problems other than AD/HD. Below are some factors to think about before you see the doctor.
General health
- Does your child eat healthy foods that support his growing body? Does he eat a good breakfast before heading to school? Children usually pay attention better if they are well fed and their energy levels don't change too much during the day.
- Could he have health problems that affect his attention or behavior? For example, uncorrected hearing and vision problems might keep him from responding to you or his teacher. He might appear inattentive.
- If your child takes medication, make sure you're aware of all possible side effects. Certain medications can cause a person to feel drowsy, dizzy, or nervous. His behavior can then appear inattentive, impulsive, or hyperactive. This applies to prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Sleeping habits
An over-tired child may have trouble staying awake and focused. Ask yourself these questions:
- Does your child sleep soundly?
- How many hours does he usually sleep each night? 8 to 11 hours of sleep is considered healthy for most kids.
- Does he suffer from insomnia?
- Does he wake up often because of nightmares or bedwetting?
- Is there a lot of noise (music, television) inside your home at night?
- Is he kept awake by outside noise, such as traffic or barking dogs?
Home environment
- Does your family follow a regular routine at home? Do meals, homework sessions, and bedtime occur at about the same times each day? Many children feel secure and focused when they know what to expect.
- Does your child have a quiet, organized space at home for reading and doing homework? Clutter and noise can make it hard to concentrate.
Your culture
Does your child come from a culture different from that of his teacher and classmates? If so, and if his teacher has expressed concern about his behavior, you may want to help her understand the attitudes and accepted behaviors of your culture.
Mood and emotions
Does your child seem to worry more than other kids his age? Does he have "nervous habits," like biting his nails? Or, have you noticed he seems to be unusually sad, angry, or withdrawn?
If there is extreme stress in your household, it may affect your child's emotions. Stress can come in the form of divorce, remarriage, a new baby, fighting, or a death in the family.
Does your child often complain about his school, teacher, or classmates? Or, does he refuse to talk to you about school? Either way, he may be feeling stressed about people and situations at school.
