ADHD

Understanding ADHD: Support and Resources for Children and Adults

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.

Signs and Symptoms in Boys and Girls

ADHD symptoms can vary between boys and girls, and not every child with ADHD exhibits every symptom.

Boys with ADHD may:

  • Be more physically active, engaging in constant movement that seems driven
  • Exhibit impulsive, potentially risky behaviors
  • Have difficulties with quiet, sedentary activities
  • Display physical aggression
  • Difficulty following instructions
  • Struggles with organization
  • Forgetfulness in daily activities

Girls with ADHD may:

  • Be inattentive, but less likely to act out
  • Daydream frequently
  • Be verbally impulsive rather than physically impulsive
  • Struggle with low self-esteem and anxiety
  • Difficulty following instructions
  • Struggles with organization
  • Forgetfulness in daily activities

Remember, ADHD presents differently in each individual. If you think your child might have ADHD, seek a professional evaluation.

Goals to Add to IEP or 504 Plans

IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 plans are designed to support students with disabilities, including ADHD, in an educational setting. Goals may include:

  • Improving focus during classroom instruction and assignments
  • Enhancing organizational skills, including keeping track of assignments and materials
  • Reducing impulsivity, such as waiting for their turn to speak in class discussions
  • Managing time effectively to complete tasks in a timely manner

Resources for Children with ADHD

Bergen County, NJ, offers various resources for children with ADHD:

  1. Bergen County CHADD: A local nonprofit offering information, education, and support for families and individuals impacted by ADHD. They host a monthly speaker series and several support groups for parents and adults with ADHD themselves.
  2. West Bergen Mental Healthcare: Provides a specialized program for children and adolescents with ADHD addressing school functioning, social skills, and family relationships.
  3. Brain Balance Achievement Center of Bergen County: A non-medical, drug-free approach to helping children with ADHD. They provide a personalized assessment and offer support at every step of the way.
  4. How to ADHD is a popular YouTube channel that’s focused on providing resources, strategies, and insight for people who have ADHD and those who interact with them, like parents, teachers, and coworkers.
  5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – ADHD: The CDC provides comprehensive information about ADHD, including its definition, symptoms, causes, risk factors, and how it’s diagnosed. It also covers treatment options, data and statistics related to ADHD, as well as information about living with ADHD, including managing ADHD at school, at home, and in the workplace.
  6. Understood.org – Understanding ADHD: This resource provides a wealth of information for understanding and managing ADHD, especially in children. It covers the symptoms, causes, and evaluation process for ADHD, along with strategies for managing ADHD at home and at school.
  7. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that can be very effective in treating ADHD. It’s based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected and that by changing unhelpful thought patterns, we can improve our feelings and behaviors. Research has shown that CBT can be very effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD and improving quality of life. In fact, the American Psychiatric Association recommends CBT as a first-line treatment for adults with ADHD.
  8. Therapist Aid: This website provides a free “Managing ADHD” worksheet that describes five key skills that can often help those with ADHD. The skills include: creating structure, setting aside time for relationships, staying organized, creating the right environment, and living a healthy lifestyle. Each section describes the importance of the skill and tips to implement it successfully.

What Parents Can Do at Home

Parents can support their children with ADHD by:

  • Establishing a routine: Consistency can help children manage their symptoms.
  • Using timers: This can help manage activities and transitions between tasks.
  • Encouraging physical activity and sleep: Regular exercise and sleep can reduce symptoms.
  • Breaking down tasks: Large tasks can seem overwhelming, so breaking them down into smaller steps can be helpful.
  • Practicing patience: Encourage positive behavior with praise and recognition.

Latest ADHD-Friendly Technology

Several tech tools can be beneficial for children with ADHD:

  • Time Timer: This app visually shows the passage of time, which can be useful for those who struggle with time management.
  • Evernote: A note-taking app that can help with organization.
  • Revibe Connect: A wearable device that sends vibration reminders to the user to help them stay focused.
  • Body doubling is an effective strategy for individuals with ADHD or other conditions that impact focus and productivity. This technique involves having another person present or virtually while working or studying, which helps to create a more structured and focused environment. The “body double” does not need to be actively involved in the work; their presence alone can provide the necessary stimulus to increase productivity.

##Community Support

The community plays a crucial role in supporting children with ADHD and their families. Here are a few ways the community can help:

  • Awareness and Understanding: Educate community members about ADHD to foster understanding and empathy.
  • Support Local Resources: Support local ADHD resources by volunteering time or donating.
  • Accommodations: Schools and community programs can make accommodations to help children with ADHD succeed.
  • Create ADHD-friendly environments: Quiet, clutter-free spaces can help children with ADHD focus and feel more comfortable.

Future Challenges for Children with ADHD

Adults with ADHD may struggle with:

  • Organization and Time Management: Difficulty organizing tasks, managing time effectively, and meeting deadlines can be ongoing challenges.
  • Impulsivity: This can manifest as issues with self-control, leading to rushed decisions or difficulties with delayed gratification.
  • Concentration: Adults with ADHD may have trouble focusing on tasks, particularly those that are routine or mundane.
  • Emotional Regulation: They may struggle with managing their emotions effectively, which can impact personal and professional relationships.
  • Self-Esteem: The chronic nature of ADHD and its impact on daily life can affect a person’s self-esteem and self-confidence.

Adults can manage these challenges by seeking professional help, joining support groups, and utilizing self-care practices and coping strategies. These can include regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness activities. For more detailed information about ADHD and resources, you can visit the National Institute of Mental Health’s website.

Remember, ADHD affects everyone differently, and there is no “one size fits all” approach. The most important thing is to find what works best for the individual and to provide them with the support and understanding they need.

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