FIT FOR KIDS
PAY ATTENTION: It’s a common and complex condition, and the multiple symptoms and solutions for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder can be confusing. Here’s a primer to help.
Can’t focus on homework. Can’t stop kicking the table. Gets distracted taking out the trash. Always moving or talking. Can’t take turns. Constantly interrupting. If this sounds familiar, you might live with kids. Or you might live with kids who have ADHD. How can you tell the difference? The short answer is quality of life. The American Psychiatric Association says ADHD (or attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder) interferes with a child’s day-today life causing stress and disruption. And it shouldn’t go untreated. Northport, Alabama, Dr. Mark Thomas has made a career researching and treating ADHD in children, teens and young adults. He has honed his craft, in part, at The University of Alabama’s Student Health Care Center as head of the ADHD Clinic and as co-chairman of the ADHD Special Interest Group and the ADHD Clinical Services Subcommittee as a Fellow of the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Thomas practices privately now and encourages concerned parents to consult with doctors who are comfortable and experienced in treating
BY CHEYENNE MARTIN
ADHD.
16
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