Does My Child Have ADHD – Telemedicine Support for Concerned Families in Missouri
Diagnosing ADHD in a child requires a comprehensive evaluation. There is no single test that confirms the diagnosis. Help is available for families in Missouri who are worried their child has ADHD.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood brain-development conditions. It affects about 1 in 10 children. ADHD is not caused by bad parenting, dietary intake, or excessive screen time. It is a medical condition related to brain development and functionality.
Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulses, or sitting still. These difficulties can affect school, friendships, and home life.
How Do Kids with ADHD Act?
ADHD can look different in every child. There are three main classifications for ADHD.
– Inattentive type (“trouble focusing”): Difficulty paying attention to details, easily distracted, forgetful, loses things often, trouble following instructions or finishing tasks.
– Hyperactive-impulsive type (“always on the go”): Fidgety, talks excessively, has trouble waiting their turn, interrupts others, runs or climbs when it is not appropriate.
– Combined type: A mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
How Is ADHD Diagnosed?
There is no single blood test or brain scan for ADHD. Diagnosis is based on:
– A detailed history from parents and teachers
– Standardized questionnaires (such as the Vanderbilt Rating Scales) filled out by parents and teachers
– A clinical evaluation by your child’s doctor
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must:
– Be present for at least 6 months
– Occur in more than one setting (for example, both at home and at school)
– Have started before age 12
– Cause real problems in daily life
Your doctor may also check for other conditions that can look like ADHD, such as anxiety, autism, learning disabilities, or sleep problems.
How Is ADHD Treated?
– Behavioral therapy: This teaches children skills to manage their behavior and helps parents learn strategies to support their child. For children under age 6, behavioral therapy is recommended as the first treatment before medication.
– Medication: Stimulant medications (such as methylphenidate or amphetamine-based medicines) are the most commonly used and most effective medications for ADHD. They are safe and well-studied in children age 6 and older. Non-stimulant medications are also available if stimulants are not a good fit.
– Combination: For children age 6 and older, a combination of behavioral therapy and medication is often the most effective approach.
Treatment is individualized because no two children are the same.
What You Can Do at Home to Help Your Child?
– Create routines: Consistent daily schedules for homework, meals, and bedtime help children with ADHD stay organized.
– Break tasks into small steps: Instead of “clean your room,” try “first, put your clothes in the hamper.”
– Use positive reinforcement: Praise and reward good behavior rather than only focusing on mistakes.
– Limit distractions: Provide a quiet, organized space for homework.
– Ensure good sleep: Children with ADHD often have trouble sleeping. A regular bedtime routine, limited screens before bed, and a calm sleep environment can help.
– Stay active: Regular physical activity can improve attention and mood.
– Communicate with the school: Work with teachers to set up supports such as preferential seating, extra time on tests, or a behavior plan. Your child may qualify for a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
With the right support, children with ADHD can thrive. If you have concerns about your child’s behavior, schedule a telehealth with the physicians at Show-Me State Pediatrics.
Helpful Resources
- CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD): www.chadd.org
- Understood.org: www.understood.org
- CDC ADHD Information: www.cdc.gov/adhd
Medical Disclaimer
Medical Emergency
Do NOT use the information in this document for medical emergencies. If you have a medical emergency, call a physician or qualified healthcare provider, or CALL 911 immediately. Under no circumstances should you attempt self-treatment based on anything you have seen or read here.
General Information is Not Medical Advice
The general information provided in this document is for informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or care, nor is it intended to be a substitute, therefore. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider properly licensed to practice medicine or general healthcare in your jurisdiction concerning any questions you may have regarding any information obtained from this document and any medical condition you believe may be relevant to you or to someone else. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this document. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet, or fitness program. Information obtained here is not exhaustive and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment.