Prevention of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is difficult.  This is probably because there are so many suspected causes of the disorder.  Expectant mothers should receive prenatal care and stay away from alcohol, tobacco, and other harmful chemicals during pregnancy as a precaution against this disorder and many other birth defects.  In addition, it is just good sense for mothers to obtain professional health care for their children.  This recommendation may be particularly important when attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is suspected in other family members.

It is important to not jump to conclusions when it comes to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.  A high energy level alone in a child or adolescent does not mean he or she has the disorder.  The diagnosis depends upon:

• Whether the child or adolescent can focus well enough to complete tasks that suit his or her age and intelligence

This ability is most likely to be noticed by a teacher.  The input from teachers should be taken seriously.

What should you do if attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is suspected?

• Make an appointment with a psychiatrist, psychologist, child neurologist or behavioral pediatrician for an evaluation.  You can usually obtain a referral from the child’s personal physician
• Be patient if the young person is diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Recognize that progress takes time
• Instill a sense of competence in the child or adolescent
• Promote his or her strengths, talents, and feelings of self-worth
• Keep in mind that failure, frustration, discouragement, low self-esteem, and depression cause more problems than the disorder itself
• Obtain accurate information from libraries, hotlines or other sources
• Ask questions about treatments and services
• Talk with other fami

If you are not satisfied with the mental health care received, remember to:

• Discuss your concerns with the provider
• Ask for information
• And/or seek help from other sources
• Realize it may take time for you and providers to find the right mix of services and supports that work best for your child
• Treatment may not fully eliminate unwanted symptoms
• Most children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder do respond to medication and behavioral therapy

Other resources of help may include:

• Qualification for free services within public schools such as special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
• The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act guarantees appropriate services and a public education to children ages 3 to 21 with disabilities
• To obtain free copies of other helpful information visit the SAMHSA’s National Information Center online or call 1-800-789-2647

Always remember:

• Every child’s mental health is important
• Many children have mental health problems
• These problems are real and painful and can be severe
• Mental health problems can be recognized and treated
• Caring families and communities working together can help

Source:  SAMHSA’s National Mental Health Information Center online

Disclaimer:  The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.  All health concerns should be addressed by a qualified health care professional.

Written by:  Connie Limon  Visit:  http://smalldogs2.com/ChildrensMentalHealth for more information.   Visit:  http://www.camelotarticles for a variety of FREE reprint articles.

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