Foothills Psych Services

One of the most common reasons for parents bringing their child to our clinic is that they feel their child won’t listen, doesn’t pay attention, and won’t sit still.

Every child can experience times when they aren’t performing well at school, struggle with completing assignments and pay less attention in class than usual. But, sometimes there may be more going on such as an attention deficit disorder.

Attention Deficit Disorders (ADHD, ADD, Hyperactivity): 

ADHD is not simply having a lot of energy or having problems in the classroom. ADHD is a cluster of symptoms with a pattern of inattention that interferes with function and/or development. ADHD begins in childhood and persists throughout the life span, however symptoms may become more manageable with time. In adolescence signs of hyperactivity may lesson and diminish in adulthood. In general, some symptoms would be present before age 12. People with ADHD often have problems at work and at home. Kids may have low grades or get behind in school. They may be at greater risk of conduct issues, substance abuse, or breaking the law.

If you (or your child) have experienced 6 or more of the following symptoms persistently for the past 6 months or more, you may have an Attention Deficit Disorder:

  1. Making careless mistakes – ie; homework or school work
  2. Poor attention to detail
  3. Difficulty maintaining focus
  4. Doesn’t seem to listen when spoken to, or ”spacing out”
  5. Doesn’t complete tasks
  6. Unorganized – ie; messy room or missing deadlines
  7. Loses things
  8. Distracted easily
  9. Forgetful – ie; missing chores or not keeping appointments

Many times, there may be hyperactivity, fidgeting, or impulsivity. things, and being easily distracted. It may or may not include hyperactivity such as fidgeting, restlessness, difficulty staying seated, excessive energy, and impulsivity.

Causes: ADHD is highly genetic or inheritable, occurs in boys more often than girls (2:1), and occurs in about 5% of kids.

Treatments: The most effective treatments for depression include medication management. Most commonly used medications are stimulants, but there are some non stimulant medication options as well as lifestyle management (adequate sleep, healthy eating, regular exercise, maintaining good physical health, avoiding substances).

Get help.

Contact your mental health provider for further information, evaluation and/or treatment.

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