ADD (attention deficit disorder) is the dated classification for the current ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Most people think the main symptom of ADD/ ADHD is hyperactivity, in some cases this is not true.

There are 2 types of ADD/ ADHD, type 1 is hyperactivity-impulsive ADHD and type 2 is inattentive ADHD. Diagnosing either type is a very difficult task especially in children. In my opinion some kids are just more of a handful than others. Other children are more quiet and withdrawn than “normal” children, this is all part of each person’s own identity. We are all different. I believe that one should only investigate further if it seems that their behaviour is inhibiting their mental growth, social growth and overall happiness.

If you still have concerns, below is a list of the symptoms of hyperactive and inattentive ADD/ ADHD. If your child has 6 or more symptoms under one category, consult with your Doctor as soon as possible. There is a rare form of ADD/ADHD where a patient may suffer a combined disorder. Consult with your Doctor if your child as 6 or more in each category.

Hyperactive-Impulsive ADD/ADHD:

• Constant fidgeting with hands or feet. Squirms in chair when sitting.
• If he/she leaves their seat in a classroom/ church or other events where remaining seated is expected.
• Abnormal over activeness in inappropriate situations. Running, jumping, kicking. In older children/ adults this can include a constant feeling of restlessness.
• Finds playing quietly or engaging in leisure activities difficult.
• An abnormal amount of energy. When it appears if your child is run by a motor engine.
• Excessive talking.
• Finds it difficult to wait their turn.
• Interrupts or intrudes on others (eg buts into conversations or games).

Inattentive ADD/ADHD:

• Often fails to give close attention to detail and tend to make careless mistakes.
• Difficulty in sustaining attention.
• Often seems as if they are not listening when spoken to.
• Does not follow through on instructions or fails to finish projects.
• Difficulty when organising tasks and activities.
• Dislikes and avoids activities that require sustained mental effort.
• Often misplaces or lose things necessary for tasks or activities.
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
• Forgetful in daily activities.

Diagnosing ADD/ADHD in adults is not impossible. There are thousands of adults living with this disorder without them even knowing it. Adults with ADD/ADHD seem lazy, disinterested or forgetful. These labels in a workplace can be quite damaging. If you believe that you might be suffering from ADD/ ADHD, consult with your GP. If it’s not that, there might be other underlying issues.

If or when your child is diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, first get a second or third opinion. The drugs given to people suffering with ADD/ADHD is quite strong and can be harmful in the long run, especially if they don’t have the disorder. For a less drastic approach you can opt for Ozone Therapy. Ozone Therapy is a non-invasive therapy. Ozone Therapy can increase oxygen levels in the body, enhance brain function, improve memory and concentration, fight anxiety and reduce stress. Each session takes about 30 minute, so make sure to bring music or even a video on an iPad or other mobile device. They will not be able to use their hands during the session, purely their eyes and ears.

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It is also very important that you take a look at your child’s lifestyle. The food they eat, their bedtime schedule, the amount of television they watch and even the amount of attention they receive. Kids are very fragile, the smallest things can set them on a path of destruction. Make sure they have a balanced diet. Reduce their sugar and fat intake. Improve your bedtime routine. Don’t watch television or play videogames at least 2 hours before they go to bed. Limit running around and houseplay before bed. Think of the tranquility of a health and beauty spa and try your best to recreate that feeling. Read your children a book (without too much violence) and make sure they are in bed at the right time. Toddlers need 11-14 hours of sleep each night, preschoolers need 11-13 hours and school children need 9-11 hours. Getting enough sleep will do wonders.

Lastly, we should all take a look at the amount of attention we give our children. Giving your children the attention they need can be difficult, especially when both parents are working 9-5. But, the fact is, we decided that we want these beautiful children and thus we have to break our backs to make them feel loved and wanted. By changing a few small habits you can boost attention-giving drastically. Stop having dinner in front of the television or with music. Eating around a dinner table will promote conversation about the day’s events and current events. Spend quality time together over weekends. Try to include them in everyday activities, like cooking, baking, washing the car or even when gardening. Yes, they will struggle with some tasks, but they will feel loved and accepted, which is priceless.

Our children are our life, breath and blood. We owe it to them to give them all that we possibly can. They are the most precious gift we are given.

If you have any questions about Ozone Therapy, please feel free to contact us:

Salvagente

[email protected]
+27 (0)72 422 1967

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