How can ADHD affect my child's life?

Attention Deficit Disorder, both with and without hyperactivity, can have a great affect on a child’s life. ADHD is a very misunderstood and commonly undiagnosed disorder. Those who have suffered from ADHD for the duration of their lives can be stunted socially and mentally, and this can have a negative effect on one’s self-esteem. ADHD is an invisible handicap, and without proper understanding of the disorder by the one affected with it, as well as people around that person, it can leave a person unable to function in the mainstream of life.

Attention Deficit Disorder often results in social difficulties. The child with ADHD is often described as immature, with a lack of self-awareness, and a high demand for attention. The child may be irritable and easily upset. He or she may have difficulty expressing feelings or accepting responsibility for behavior. Since children with ADHD often have a difficult time verbalizing a problem or complaint, they may become victims. Poor social skills are often associated with ADHD as a result of low-self esteem and a fear of criticism. A lack of impulse control and a difficulty considering consequences can put children with ADHD in physical danger.

Many of the symptoms of ADHD make daily activities difficult. Since children with ADHD are often distractible, they may not be able to complete simple tasks. The lack of short-term memory may cause a child with ADHD to forget relevant details to function fully at home, or school. Attention to detail is difficult for those with ADHD, and this often results in careless mistakes on work. Those with ADHD may be misjudged by their peers and viewed as careless or unintelligent. If left untreated, ADHD can negatively affect many aspects of a child’s life.

Because children may be unable to articulate their feelings, it is the responsibility of the caretakers to determine the extent of the problem and the necessity for treatment.