ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD) IN CHILDREN: TESTS & TREATMENTS
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ADHD & ATTENTION ISSUES
Treatment & Programs for Attention Issues
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a prevalent psychiatric condition that affects a significant portion of the population. In Singapore, the prevalence of ADHD ranges from 1.7% to 16%. Children with ADHD often struggle with academic and social skills, and their behavior may differ from their peers.
At SBDC, we understand the unique challenges faced by children with ADHD and their families. We offer intervention programs designed to address these challenges and provide sustainable improvements in learning abilities.
Intervention programs such as Brain and Focus Training and Sensory Integration aim to help children with ADHD improve their focus and reduce distractions from the environment. By targeting specific areas of sensory processing and cognitive function, these interventions can have a positive impact on attention, concentration, and overall cognitive performance.
What Is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically appears in early childhood, usually before the age of seven. It involves a combination of symptoms that impact different areas of a child’s functioning, such as attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. ADHD is a complex condition that requires careful assessment and diagnosis to provide appropriate support and interventions for affected individuals.
Types Of ADHD
ADHD is classified as the following types:
- Inattentive: This type is associated with difficulties in focusing, being easily distracted, and having poor organizational skills.
- Hyperactive-Impulsive: Common signs of this type include fidgeting, interrupting others, and experiencing mood swings.
- Combined: This type includes a combination of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Children with this type often exhibit excessive activity levels and high energy.
Common Signs Of ADHD
ADHD is often misunderstood, as people tend to associate it with constant hyperactivity and lack of control. However, the reality is more complex. If you suspect your child may have ADHD, watch out for the following symptoms:
- Hyperactivity and Inattentiveness
Excessive energy, constant fidgeting, inability to sit still, and frequent reaching out to touch things may indicate overactivity, which can be a symptom of ADHD in children. They may frequently get distracted and switch their focus to other stimuli, leaving tasks unfinished.
- Impulsivity
Impulsiveness in children with ADHD can manifest in various ways, not just through risk-taking behaviour. It can also be seen as impatience, such as interrupting others mid-sentence and intruding in conversations. These behaviours suggest a difficulty in restraining speech and controlling emotions, leading to impulsive reactions.
- Daydreaming & Zoning Out
Children with ADHD can exhibit both hyperactive and inattentive behaviours. While some may display hyperactivity and excessive energy, others may appear quiet, withdrawn, and less engaged. These children may seem lost in their own thoughts, daydreaming, and not fully aware of their surroundings.
- Emotional Turmoil
Children with ADHD often struggle with emotional regulation, which can result in frequent frustrated or angry outbursts. They may also experience mood swings, where their emotions fluctuate rapidly. These challenges in emotional control can significantly impact their behaviour and interactions with others.
- Difficulty In Organising and Forgetfulness
Children with ADHD commonly struggle with executive functioning skills, which can affect their ability to organise and manage tasks effectively. They may have difficulty following a sequence of activities, misplace items, struggle with keeping their belongings in order, and find it challenging to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically appears in early childhood, usually before the age of seven. It involves a combination of symptoms that impact different areas of a child’s functioning, such as attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. ADHD is a complex condition that requires careful assessment to provide appropriate support and interventions for affected individuals.
If you observe any of the mentioned symptoms in your child and suspect ADHD, you may contact us for a free consultation with our Senior Consultant. They will provide professional advice and intervention strategies to address your concerns.
Intervention Programs for Treatment of ADHD
Intervention Programs for Treatment of ADHD
Intervention programs are effective treatment plans for children with ADHD and generally more effective with a combination of strategies and specialised treatment. Training programs will be customised and tailored to your child’s needs after a comprehensive evaluation.
Recommended treatment programs for children with ADHD are developmental and cognitive training which includes Brain and Focus Training and Sensory Integration. Each program emphasises on development of the brain and overcoming the learning struggles faced by your child. Read more about each program to find the most suitable therapy for your child.
These programs focus on helping your child develop and enhance their abilities to process and learn new skills, overcome challenges, and improve overall psychological well-being. Through ongoing intervention, we can effectively manage the symptoms they face and enhance a wide range of skills for long-term progress.
ADHD is a condition that can impact individuals throughout their lifespan, but intervention treatment programs can effectively manage and reduce symptoms, enhance social skills, and boost self-esteem. Early intervention is particularly valuable as it equips children with ADHD with coping mechanisms and strategies to manage their symptoms from a young age. With appropriate support, these children can lead fulfilling lives.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD In Children
If you are concerned that your child has ADHD, observe his/her symptoms, and make an appointment with a specialist for a consultation as other conditions can cause similar symptoms but that does not always mean that your child has ADHD.
Most children would have symptoms of both Inattentive and Hyperactive ADHD, which is called combined ADHD.
The main signs of Inattentiveness / Inattentive ADHD type are:
- Short attention span
- Being easily distracted
- Making seemingly careless mistakes during tasks
- Forgetfulness
- Losing things
- Time management difficulties
- Tendency to zone out or daydream during conversations
- Difficulty following instructions
- Poor short-term memory
- Difficulty completing one activity or task at a time
- Difficulty organizing tasks
The main signs of Hyperactivity / Hyperactive ADHD type are:
- Being unable to sit still, especially in calm or quiet surroundings
- Fidgeting
- Difficulty concentrating
- Excessive physical movement (also known as stimming)
- Excessive talking and at high speed
- Difficulty following social cues during conversation, for example, interrupting others
- Acting without taking consequences into consideration
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. The exact cause of ADHD is not known, but studies have shown that ADHD can be caused by these factors:
- Brain Anatomy and Function
- Genetics
- Prematurity
- Prenatal Exposures
- Brain Damage
Early detection and intervention are crucial in managing ADHD, as it cannot be prevented or cured. By identifying ADHD symptoms early on, appropriate therapy and treatment can be provided to help children effectively manage their symptoms and function well in various settings, including school and social environments. Without proper intervention, untreated ADHD can increase the risk of developing psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. To take the first step in addressing your concerns, schedule an appointment with us.
ADHD treatments typically include medication, education, and behavioral and intervention programs. While medication may be prescribed based on the severity of the condition, therapy and intervention programs are often effective in treating ADHD. These programs focus on enhancing brain functions and reframing thought processes, leading to long-term improvements without the potential negative side effects of medications. Through therapy and intervention, individuals with ADHD can achieve significant progress in managing their symptoms and improving their overall well-being.
A Promising Solution
Singapore Brain Centre is dedicated to supporting children with ADHD by offering evidence-based interventions and personalised support. We aim to provide realistic hope and tangible results, helping children overcome challenges, develop their strengths, and lead fulfilling lives.
Here are some key areas our program offers to lessen the symptoms of ADHD:
- Develop self-regulation skills
- Increase awareness and self-control
- Improve organisation and planning
- Develop and discipline auditory skills
Schedule a free consultation for your child, and our consultant will work out the best solution from our wide range of intervention therapies and programs offered at Singapore Brain Development Centre.