As parents, it is sometimes hard to be objective. Because you love your children so much, you sometimes neglect to see certain behaviors that cannot be considered regular or normal. Most of the time, you justify your children's behavior as a response to pressures present in his environment. However, if your child has been inattentive, lagging behind school work, hyperactive, and impulsive for 6 consecutive months then it would be wise to consult a medical professional immediately. Your child may be suffering from ADD-ADHD and the earlier you find out, the better it is for your child. ADD/ADHD are acronyms for the neurological disorder Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Considered to be caused by genetic factors, ADD/ADHD affects about 5% of all children in the United States especially those aged 7 and below. Although studies have linked pre-natal exposure to alcohol or neurotoxin-containing drugs, ADD/ADHD has not yet been fully explained. Children suspected of the disorder should be thoroughly examined by medical experts. A series of diagnostic tests will be conducted to confirm if your child really has ADD/ADHD. These tests will include medical and family history, physical examination, interviews with you and your child, observation and psychological tests. Based on these tests, well-trained medical doctors can tell you whether your child MAY have ADD/ADHD. Tests including MRI and PET scans will still be done to confirm the disorder. ADD/ADHD has three subtypes: Predominantly Combined Type, Predominantly Inattentive Type and Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type. The most prevalent subtype of ADD/ADHD is the Predominantly Combined Type in which children will have trouble controlling activity, attention and impulse. The other two subtypes speak for themselves. In case your child does have ADD/ADHD, it is not the end of the world. With the right treatment, ADD/ADHD children can function normally like any other child. The most popular treatment available today is prescription medication. Drugs like Ritalin and Dexedrine acts as stimulants, enhancing the neurotransmitters Dopamine, Serotonin and Norepinepherine. These neurotransmitters will mostly likely inhibit the brain from not focusing. Children with ADD/ADHD will be less easily distracted and less impulsive. Coupled with medication, you should also consider counseling not only for your child but for the entire family. Dealing with a child who has ADD/ADHD can be strenuous to the entire family because of the child's special needs. Sibling jealousy may even be observed. But with proper counseling, families will be able to manage the difficulties of raising an ADD/ADHD child and at the same time help the child cope well. Cognitive therapy behavior can also help your child in learning more about his disorder. It will also help in controlling his impulses as well as other behaviors. ADD/ADHD coaching programs are available today to teach your child how to organize, prioritize and develop life skills. These programs help children set realistic goals. With sufficient knowledge on the disorder, correct diagnosis and proper treatment, your child can overcome ADD/ADHD. Providing a loving, consistent and supportive environment will certainly help in the normal development of your child as he grows up. 

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