News Release, 28 April 2000
New ways of talking, playing and working with children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can lead to greatly improved behaviour according to the Mental Health Foundation. The Mental Health Foundation has published a newfree information booklet, All About ADHD, which gives straightforward information on ADHD to parents - including details of medication and alternative approaches.
ADHD currently affects about 0.5 to 1% of children in the UK. The term is normally used to describe children who have either attention or hyperactivity problems and can include overactive behaviour, impulsive behaviour or difficulty in paying attention. Many children with ADHD frequently underachieve at school, and may also have problems getting on with other children.
Until recently, very little has been known about ADHD and what the causes are. In the past, children were often punished for being difficult or disruptive. However, ‘All About ADHD’ conveys an optimistic message to parents of children with ADHD, who have faced difficulties in the past. It is designed to give advice to parents who may be concerned about their children’s behaviour and contains helpful tips as well as comments and statements from parents and children diagnosed as having ADHD. It also contains information about how to support a child with ADHD at home, in school and in their future lives.
The booklet explores ten techniques which parents may find useful. These include: making eye contact with a child, keeping instructions simple – using one sentence rather than longer ones, and giving specific praise for acceptable behaviour. In addition, it lists specific behaviour management techniques.
Dr Jo Borrill, clinical research manager at the Mental Health Foundation says, "Drugs such as Ritalin can be tremendously helpful for some children, but medication should not be the only form of treatment. Children on medication should be seen regularly by a specialist to monitor their progress and check for any side effects. The bottom line for parents to understand is that medication does not cure ADHD, but it can provide a window of opportunity in which we can help children learn to manage their own behaviour.
This booklet also covers strategies teachers can use in the classroom, as well as a list of useful contacts for families.
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For further information and interview requests contact please contact the press office on 020 7803 1105 / 1128 or email the press office
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