ADHD – Let’s Break it Down!

We all know someone who has ADHD, right?  Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (aren’t you glad we don’t have to say that all the time?) Numbers are on the rise and it’s currently estimated that 11 percent of children and 4 percent of adults struggle with this condition.  We hear about it often, but do we really understand what it is?  Here are the basics:

• ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that makes it difficult to concentrate and causes hyperactivity.
• ADHD has a strong genetic component so if someone in a family has been diagnosed with it there is a chance other family members have it as well.
• ADHD contributes to depression and getting treatment can help reduce depression by up to 20 percent.
• Having ADHD does not mean someone is dumb. The struggles are caused because their brain is wired to function in a different way.

The good news here is that there are numerous strategies that if regularly practiced can help people who have an ADHD diagnosis.

• Encourage your child or family member to practice deep breathing to calm their nervous system.
• Focus whenever possible on one task or job to alleviate anxiety over not completing tasks.
• Take frequent movement breaks.
• Set a time to work on a task for short periods of time. Gradually increase the length of these periods over time.
• Reduce sugar, alcohol, and smoking.
• Other strategies include having an organized environment and giving rewards if goals are met.

Remember that different is not bad and many people with ADHD are very creative because they think outside of the box.  An Executive Function Course is a very effective help for children with ADHD.  We offer a 10-week course with topics ranging from Time Management to Test Taking Skills.  Your child can learn to communicate effectively and is capable of getting good grades!

If you would like more detailed information on the Executive Function Course, our tutoring services, or if we can assist your child schedule time with us to talk!

“Everybody is a genius.  But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” – Albert Einstein