Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are some of several psychological
conditions that have a significant share of misconceptions. Here are a few
myths about ADD/ADHD:
Myth
#1: Kids Can Outgrow ADD/ADHD
The short answer is no. Left untreated, ADD/ADHD can continue
well into adulthood, but if the affected individual’s strengths are developed via
therapies (coupled with appropriate medication if needed) productive life as an
adult is perfectly possible.
Myth
#2: Only Boys Can Have It
Girls are as every bit susceptible to
having ADD/ADHD as boys, since gender makes absolutely no difference in the symptoms
linked to the disorder.
Myth
#3: ADD/ADHD Is Just a Result of Poor Parenting
ADD/ADHD directly affect how the brain
functions in terms of controlling behavior and is in no way related to the way
parents raise or treat their children. Researchers haven’t been able to determine
the root cause, but it’s apparent that kids with ADD/ADHD have distinctively larger
and more active brains.
If your child has been diagnosed
with ADD/ADHD, know that pediatric occupational therapy (OT) can be of great
help. Therapists help children to develop executive functioning and
self-regulation skills. For the latter, occupational therapists can work with
children to reduce their difficulty in problem solving, time management, and
transitioning in and out of tasks, whereas for self-regulation, therapists
teach children to adjust their level of alertness accordingly, thereby enabling
them to focus better. Occupational therapists also help to educate parents and
develop specific strategies that may help their children become more organized
and efficient, leading to more success in completing tasks at home and at
school.
