ADHD Statistics
ADHD statistics are said by many to be suspect. They say that statistics can be manipulated to give credence to the results. In reference to ADHD I think the numbers are right.
ADHD Facts
Did you know that in a classroom of 30 children there are at least 3 children with ADHD diagnoses? Boys are more are two times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. 25% of children with AHDH also have co-existing learning problems. Of all children with ADHD half of them will experience listening comprehension problems.
Of all children with ADHD 75% of the boys are hyperactive while 60% of the girls are hyperactive. About 40% of children with ADHD have at least on parent with it. The parents of ADHD children are up to 3 times more likely to separate or get divorced.
If your child is diagnosed with ADHD or being evaluated for it there is much that you can do. It is important to the entire process that you remain as open as possible and be able to work with your child's teacher. The Special Education team will do most of the educational testing. The school psychologist will likely do the mental, emotional, and behaviors.
As parents you will be asked to do a behavioral assessment of your child at home. The teacher will do one for their classroom behaviors. Getting your child a complete physical is strongly advised if for no reason to make there isn't another health condition present.
After all of the results are in, a meeting will be called with you, your child's teacher(s), the Special Education team and the school psychologist. The strength and needs of your child will be discussed and goals set to make sure everyone is on the same page and the goals are being met and whatever accommodations that were made are happening.
This is called an IEP or individual education plan and it is reviewed periodically.
Unbelievably 65% of all children diagnosed with ADHD have defiant and non-compliant problems. These ADHD statistics are rather disconcerting. Even more disconcerting are the medications used for ADHD do more harm than good.They do work for most children but you should be aware of the risks.
The usual treatment is a prescription for stimulant medication. The downside of stimulants is that they are addictive and there is a great potential for abuse. They may cause your child to have sleep problems, eat less than normal, and feel depressed. Irritability may increase as well. They can also affect your child's liver.
If the stimulants are only used for short period of time you will see any number of the side effects mentioned previously. There are serious issues connected to long term use especially that as an adult, your child will be more likely to be depressed and have substance abuse problems.
There are natural alternatives to stimulants. Specifically natural supplements. They have no side effects, can be used for an extended period of time, and they work. The supplements are specific formulations of herbs and natural vitamins and minerals that will relieve ADHD symptoms. They can be gotten from homeopaths that have certified to practice
Your child is not alone. Your child will have a much better chance of success. Their level of self-esteem will rise.
ADHD Statistics