ADHD is one of the most common childhood mental disorders. Yet, it has a significant effect on the child and parents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports, 9.4% (approximately 6 million) of the kids in the U.S. between the age of 2 to 17 are diagnosed with ADHD. This figure constitutes of:  

●     2.4% (388,000) kids aged 2 to 5 years,

●     9.6% (2.4 million) kids aged 6 to 11 years, and

●     13.6% (3.3 million) kids aged 12 to 17 years.  

Reports also show that boys are more likely to have ADHD as compared to girls (12.9 percent and 5.6 percent, respectively).

ADHD And Other Health Conditions

The common symptoms of ADHD include difficulty managing emotions and staying organized. These symptoms often make it challenging for kids to focus on their studies and their inability to process information and reaction. 

Furthermore, a few studies have shown that children with ADHD have a higher risk of getting diagnosed with other mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, behavior and conduct problems, and more.  

As per reports:

●     5 in 10 kids with attention deficit disorder have conduct or behavior issues.

●     3 in 10 kids have anxiety.

●     4 in 10 kids have a learning disorder.

●     Kids are 12 times more likely to have LOC-ES (Loss of Control Eating Syndrome- similar to binge eating disorder in adults).  

That’s why it becomes troublesome for parents to manage and take proper care of their children.

Does ADHD Have Any Relation To Demography, Race, And Ethnicity?

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 2020:

●     Kids in families with the lowest income brackets are more likely to have the disorder.

●     Kids with parents with merely a high school education or less are more likely to be diagnosed with this condition.

●     Kids living in the U.S. South receive ADHD diagnoses compared to the kids living in the rest of the U.S.

What Can Parents Do?

Needless to say, raising a kid with a disorder is quite challenging. Parents often find themself stuck in a dead-end. They don’t understand how to handle and take care of their child and ensure their healthy future. However, it is challenging for kids as well. Kids need parental support to minimize the symptoms and live a normal life. Fortunately, with the measures given below, you can help your child.  

●     You can look for ADHD Coaching to ease your parenting journey. The coaching will help you understand this condition better and manage your child’s behavior. It will also help you teach your kid organization and direction-following skills.  

●     Don’t be too strict with your child. Understand that even the easiest things are challenging for them to follow. Therefore, let them make mistakes while they learn and grow. Also, create some rules but be flexible.  

●     Visit the doctor regularly. The doctor might recommend medication or behavior therapy to improve your child's condition. So, ensure that your child gets the best treatment.

The Bottom Line,

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is very common but treatable. As a parent, it might be a daunting task for you to manage your child’s behavior. But with the right approach and learning, you’ll be able to take utmost care of your child.