If one more parent tells me that their child has been diagnosed with ADHD, just because they are a little "active," I am going to scream. Not at you, but just out loud because I can't take it anymore.
Nothing is more frustrating for me when a parent expresses a little bit of concern for their child, and the next you thing you know, they are diagnosed with ADHD.
Here's the problem:
Everyone seems to think that they know what ADHD is and what it looks like. You have no doubt heard it all before yourself:
ADHD doesn't really exist.
It's bad parenting.
Kids need more exercise.
It wasn't around when I was a kid.
Discipline, discipline, discipline.
Enough already. ADHD is a very real condition.
The problem however is that we jump too quickly. Follow these steps, and you will be certain to avoid having your child unnecessarily diagnosed or even provided with the wrong treatment when there are alternatives:
Step 1: Don't ask if it's ADHD
Instead of leading with, "I think it's ADHD," provide your pediatrician or therapist with a list of concerned behaviors. Provide some context. Don't just give a laundry list of complaints. If you do that, you'll be sure to walk right into an ADHD diagnosis.
Step 2: Ask questions
When you meet with a physician or therapist today, you need to come in with questions. You need to be informed. The healthcare system is stretched too thin, and you don't get the time you once did. If you want answers, you need to have specific questions.
Step 3: Trust your gut
What does your gut tell you? Don't rush into making decisions that you don't feel comfortable with. Even if you are totally stressed out, step back and take a moment to think. Most of all, remember the following words:
You know your child better than anyone else!Step 4: Ask for a full medical evaluation
This one trips up most people, even the professionals. There are more illnesses, conditions, and "things" that look like ADHD when it is really not.
Step 5: Get a second opinion
If you don't like what you are hearing, ask for a second opinion. If you still don't like it, ask for a third opinion. But know it is time to stop when the opinions all suggest the same thing.
Step 6: See a specialist
The best piece of advice I can give you - see someone who specializes in ADHD. There really is more to it than just looking at a list of symptoms and giving it a name.
Bottom line? Make sure you are getting the right information from the right people. And to get you started with information that will make a difference today, I'd like to offer you access to a special report on the keys to success in school for a child with ADHD. You can get started by visiting http://www.thetruthbehindadhd.com
Brought to you By Dr. Rory Stern & The Truth Behind ADHD
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