ADHD in Children

Around the time I was in the fifth grade, I was told I had a hyper active disorder. I was sent to see a specialist as well as monthly sessions with a school counselor. I was placed on medication and for a long time before and after I had strict limitations and rules laid on me. I was not allowed many things that most other children including my sister never had to think twice about. I was not allowed sugar or caffeine, instead I was allowed those flavored seltzer waters or on rare occasion caffeine free diet soda. I was not allowed candy, unless of course I managed to sneak some. This made Halloween less exciting for me than most kids. Not only was my nutrition and diet something to be concerned about but I also had personality and relationship problems. Being hyper is great when your playing soccer or in gym class, it unfortunately becomes a problem when you are in the middle of an English or math lesson. I was constantly a disruption to my class and at times an annoyance to my friends. once in the sixth grade after a meeting with my counselor and teacher I was asked explain my condition to my classmates including the cause and effects of it. For a short time after this at least some of the people in my class understood why I was the guy climbing up and down the walls when I should have been working on my assignments. In the end though finding yourself left out from social activities or singled out in a joke is frustrating for a child just because you are a little to hyper. For a good understanding of the symptoms and causes of ADHD check out sites like Kids Health.

Fortunately as I aged I grew out of it or at least learned to control my urges. Now as an adult it is almost a blessing, I seem to be very energetic and it allows me to function effectively in a very fast paced industry. Even today there are times when I get carried away and need to be put back in line, but at least the feeling of helplessness is no longer present.

I now have the opportunity to see the stress I caused for my parents growing up. My oldest son at times seems to have the same symptoms as I did and although it is to early as of yet to know for sure I just have this itchy feeling that I am going to get paid back in full. My parents went through a lot of trouble to help me deal with my problems. And as difficult as it was for me to go without some things like sugar, it was necessary. You will most likely have to make many of the same choices with your child and there will be many times when they will make the choice very difficult for you. Remember to stand your ground, although they do not understand your reasons yet,in time they will. Keep the sugar to a minimum and encourage them to be as active as possible. After school sports or community centers where they can participate in activities will help to work out some of that built up energy.

One thing that I hope any and every parent can understand is that this is a medical condition and every child will be different. This was my experience with it and in many circumstances I was better off than most. It is a problem and it will always be a problem. Every bit of stress you feel, every time you think you will not be able to handle it anymore. Remember that your child just may be having a more difficult time than you are. Just because your child may not listen of respond the way you think they should. They are not being bad children. They may just not have the ability to control themselves in the same manner you may.