how do i know if my child has ADHD?

10/07/08

emma

My child is 5 years old (will be 6 in 3 weeks time), since he was about 9 months old (when he was able to walk), he has been very disruptive and hyperactive (using objects, hands, feet to hit things or people, his concentration span has got gradually worse.

He was referred to a behaviour therapist when he was 4 years old, she gave me some advice about how to manage his behaviour (supper nanny advice), i mentioned to her about ADHD and she said because he can show a loving and caring side he will not have ADHD, is this true?

He also has some speech problems, could this affect his behaviour?

At school he is getting in trouble quite a lot, he is biting, fighting, not listening to his teachers and generally being disruptive.

Who can i go to for help, when i mention ADHD to teachers, therapists (speech, behaviour), doctor they just brush me off, am i over reacting, thinking to much into this i would be greatful for some advice.

Thank you

Miss Emma McAllister

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Answers (1)

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

John G.

Thanks for your questions. You may find this page on ADHD diagnosis helpful in shedding some light on your many good questions. I think you will find many answers to your questions there.

One question you posed, however, is not answered there. Without being a medical professional myself, it seems that there is no available resource linking a child's ability to show love and affection with ADHD. It is true that some adults find ADHD hurting their relationships, but ADHD does not seem to make it impossible for a child to show affection from what I can (or can not) find.

In terms of talking to people about it, you should consult your child's physician, and consider talking to a child psychologist. I hope this helps.