Types of ADHD in Children

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD is one of the most common mental disorders that affects children. It is a chronic condition and impacts a child’s behavior, emotions and ability to learn. If a child has ADHD, he or she will display signs of hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and/or impulsivity.

Children with ADHD may exhibit the following symptoms or situations:

• Difficulty in finishing tasks such as schoolwork or chores.
• Getting distracted easily and finding it difficult to stay focused on the task assigned to them.
• Frequently interrupting others and having difficulties controlling their impulse to talk.
• Having challenges in organizing their thoughts when in conversations with others. Excessive talking tends to be the result.
• Appearing not to listen to others. This does not mean that they are ignoring a person, but rather they have challenges processing what the person is saying.

Types of ADHD

#ADHD, Hyperactive/Impulsive type

Children with Hyperactive/Impusive ADHD are prone to hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.

#ADHD, Distractible and Inattentive type

Distractible and Inattentive ADHD will most often be exhibited by distractibility and inattentiveness. In most cases, children identified with this type of ADHD do not show hyperactive behaviors.

#ADHD, Combined type

This is one of the most common types of ADHD. The Combined Type ADHD manifests as hyperactive and impulsive behavior, plus easily distracted and inattentive to instructions.

Since each child is different, it is common for two people with ADHD to experience symptoms differently. One example of this is shown in the difference in the behavior of boys and girls. Girls are often quietly inattentive while boys tend to be more hyperactive.

Treatment for ADHD

Physicians will recommend treatment depending on the type of ADHD that the child is diagnosed with. They will also consider certain things such as how well a child handles certain therapies or medicines, the severity of symptoms, medical history, age and parent expectations. Below are two common types of treatment that a physician may recommend.

Therapy

Doctors will often recommend behavioral therapy in IL before trying medication treatments. This type of therapy helps children with ADHD to replace undesired behaviors with positive behaviors. It also helps children express their feelings in more constructive ways.

Parents also can receive training to manage their child’s behavior. Parent training is helpful for the child to learn new skills and cope with the disorder.

Many physicians recommend that children under six years of age should start with behavior therapy and not a medication treatment. Children aged six and up may benefit the most from the combination of behavior medications and therapy.

Medication

There are two common types of medication for the treatment of ADHD:

• Stimulants: These are the most commonly prescribed form of medication. They act fast, and help children manage symptoms.

• Non-stimulants: These medications take longer to work but the effect lasts longer and in some cases up to 24 hours.

Conclusion

Children with ADHD show symptoms at a very young age, and the symptoms are easy to identify. If children are diagnosed properly and receive the correct treatment, their condition will be much easier to manage with behavioral or medication therapy. Treatment is not a ‘one-size-fits-all approach and it is essential to consult with a doctor to get the most effective treatment plan.