What is ADHD?
Almost all children have times when their behavior veers out of control. They may speed about in constant motion, make noise nonstop, refuse to wait their turn, and crash into everything around them. At other times they may drift as if in a daydream, unable to pay attention or finish what they start.
However, form some children, these kinds of behaviors are more than an occasional problem. Children with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder have behavior problems that are so frequent and severe that they interfere with their ability to live normal lives.
ADHD is a chronic medical condition of the brain that makes it difficult for children to control their behavior. These children often have trouble getting along with siblings and other children at school, at home and in other settings. Those who have trouble paying attention often have trouble learning. An impulsive nature may put them in actual physical danger. These children are often labeled "bad kids."
Fortunately, effective treatment is available to help these children lead a happy and healthy life.
What should I do if I am concerned about ADHD?
If your child has been struggling in school with academics or behavior or you are concerned that he/she may be showing signs of possible ADHD, please give our office a call. We will be glad to schedule your child for an appointment where we can discuss the signs and symptoms of ADHD and evaluate your child for any possible diagnoses.
Before your appointment, please download and complete a copy of the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale for Parents. Also, download copies of the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale for Teachers and have these completed by all of your child's primary teachers. (There is also a Letter for the Teacher that you can download that will explain the Rating Scales that you will be giving to them.) Once these are completed, please submit them to our office prior to your appointment so that can be scored and ready to be discussed.
To download and print these forms, you may log onto your Patient Portal Account using the link in the Main Menu above, or you may click on the following links: