We all know someone who is hyperactive. Usually, this person has a difficult time paying attention or sitting still for a while. Sometimes, this person acts impulsively. The hyperactivity usually comes with difficulty paying attention. This is called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder by the American Psychiatric Association. It is also found that individuals with ADHD may have a reduced level of the necessary neuorochemicals. Those neuorchemicals impair the ability to control functions such as attention and inhibition. Not everyone who is distracted and moves around constantly has this diagnosis. This is usually diagnosed when a person has many of the above-mentioned symptoms and has them for more than six months with disruption in their regular daily living.
Children who have this problem tend to get in trouble frequently in school. They have a hard time staying focused, do not complete tasks, are fidgety and cannot sit still. Their tolerance level is low. They usually wind up in the principal’s office most often. It is reported that boys have ADHD more often than girls. The reason for this is not known.
At a younger age, children have a hard time following directions, usually because they are not listening. They are always in constant motion. They do not like taking turns. They always want to be first. They are not always aware of danger or just not afraid to take a risk. They enjoy activities with lots of action and adventure. They seem to have more energy than most people around them.
Some medications cause children to become over-active. These should be evaluated very carefully. When certain medications are taken, the teacher will be the first to note the change in the child’s behavior.
Deep breathing and relaxation techniques are most common to help stay calm. Getting a professional opinion is most important. Many doctors prescribe medication such as Ritlin. Some parents are against medication. The best way to help a child with this behavior is to try and work with a therapist who can provide strategies for the parents and the school. Medication should be the last resort. However, in many cases, parents opt to have their child medicated. This is a decision only a parent can make in conjunction with a medical doctor. The decision must be thought out very carefully.
The schools should be informed of this diagnosis. It helps teachers have a better understanding of what is affecting the child. Teachers and parents can meet to discuss strategies that will help the student succeed in school. For teachers, it is difficult to have a child in the class who is in constant motion, restless and not paying attention. This problem becomes worse because of the large number of children in a class. The teacher does not have the time to focus on the needs of these children. However, if planned, the child can succeed. This takes extra time and preparation.
Impulsivity is one of the characteristics of hyperactivity. When someone is impulsive, acting precedes thinking. Mistakes are made because actions were not carefully thought out. We all know children and adults with some of these characteristics. This does not make them hyperactive.
Sometimes we do not pay attention, especially if not interested. We take action without thinking due to our emotional state (anger, sadness, depression, conflict). This does not constitute ADHD. In order to have a diagnosis, one must be evaluated by a medical doctor, usually a psychiatrist. Only a medical doctor can make the diagnosis and provide the appropriate treatment plan.
Source: Diagnostic and Statistical Manuel of Mental Disorders (DSMIV) 1994; Lerner, J., Lowenthal, B & Egan, R., Preschool Children with Special Needs, 1998.
Please feel free to contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Attn: Dr. Mercedes Valle
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