The letter I have chosen to reply to this month is similar to many I receive from desperate parents. This type of problem seems to be quite common, I would suggest that if you find that this is a problem within your family do not wait until you and the other members of the family reach breaking point, rather call in the help of your family doctor who will be able to advise you.
Dear Doctor,
Please help me! I have a son of ten years who is absolutely impossible. He cannot sit still for a minute, always butts in on conversations and doesn't seem to be able to concentrate on anything for very long. I have tried everything I know of to keep him quiet and calm but nothing seems to work. Is there something wrong with me or what is it?
Close to Breaking
Point,
Dear Close to Breaking
Point,
Your child appears to be suffering from a condition known as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Children who have this disorder characteristically move quickly from one activity to another, act impulsively and sometimes aggressively. They are unable to wait their turn in games and answer out of turn in the classroom. They are easily distracted and have difficulty in concentrating. At home they often break into conversations between two adults and love climbing all over the furniture.
It is important that you have your child assessed by a clinical (not educational psychologist to confirm this diagnosis. Your family doctor will be able to recommend the right person to consult. Console yourself this condition will respond to the conect treatment &om the experts and there is no way that you should blame yourself.
