WHAT IS A.D.H.D ?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) is an inherited neurological condition that often continues throughout a person’s life. The disorder is called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD), although not all people with the disorder are hyperactive.
All of us sometimes have difficulties concentrating. AD/HD, however, means severe and on-going trouble with:
- focusing attention
- ignoring distractions
- setting and working towards goals
- difficulty following instructions
And, if hyperactivity is present:
- sitting still for long periods
- being patient
- tolerating frustration
- taking turns
- getting into physical danger
Children with AD/HD have a lot more trouble with these things than other children of the same age. These problems may persist into adult life.
To be diagnosed as AD/HD the behaviour must have shown up before the age of seven, been present for at least 6 months, occur in at least two settings, and significantly impair the person’s life.
THE GOOD NEWS
Having AD/HD doesn’t mean a person can’t live a productive, fulfilling life. Many people with AD/HD are highly intelligent, creative and sensitive. FAMILIES
Partners, relatives and friends can be affected by stress. Support groups where people can share their stories are a great help.
RELATED CONDITIONS
ADHD hardly ever exists by itself. Many people have associated conditions and issues:
- learning disorders
- speech problems
- enuresis and/or encopresis (bed- wetting and/or soiling)
- conduct disorders
- depression and anxiety problems
- poor self esteem
- difficulties with assertiveness
- poor social skills PROFESSIONALS WHO MAY HELP
- Your GP
- School Teachers
- Paediatricians
- Paediatric Neurologists
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists
- Natural Therapists
- Speech Pathologists
GOVERNMENT SERVICES
State schools have AD/HD information packages. ADASA provides information for parents and teachers.
Centrelink may provide Health Care Cards and, in rare cases, a Child Disability Allowance.
Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) provide services, but are severely limited by funding. Each CAHMS office has a Consumer Representative.
THINGS THAT WORK
A combination of strategies is usually best.
- Stimulant medication, which assists concentration and impulse control.
- Nutritional programs have helped some children
- Behaviour and environmental change, for example, modifying teaching strategies; using memory aids.
- Behaviour training and courses in social skills and self-esteem.
- Family counselling and training in the management of ADHD symptoms.
- Extra tutoring in academic skills, speech and physical co-ordination
HELP FROM ADASA
The following centres are ADASA Community Agency Members. They provide support groups, counselling and information, and a direct line to ADASA activities.
- Aboriginal family support
- Eastern & southern suburbs -carers’ support
- Noarlunga downs primary school
- Davoren park – carers’ support
- Berri – riverland health service
- Clare – carers’ link
- Nuriootpa – carers’ link
- Victor harbour – carers’ support
ADASA is continually enrolling new Community Agency Members.
If you would like one near you, please contact us on 8152 0187.
