“Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder does not disappear during the holidays”

Specialist from the Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Diseases at Izmir University of Economics (IUE) Medical Point Hospital. Prof. Dr. Samira Huseynova gave important warnings to the families of children being treated for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Huseynova said, “We do not recommend ‘vacation’ in drug treatment. Because ADHD does not disappear on vacation.”

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder that starts in childhood and negatively affects quality of life. From the Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Diseases at IUE Medical Point Hospital, Specialist. Dr. Samira Huseynova gave important information about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Huseynova said, “Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is seen in one out of every 10 children. Although the main symptoms are distraction, mobility and impulsivity, sometimes findings that families overlook and do not pay enough attention can also be seen (such as problems in emotion management and peer communication, lack of organization, inability to plan, disorganization, disorganization) These features vary according to age and gender in children.”

“It is more common in men”

Huseynova emphasized that ADHD is more common in boys and said, “Although the child is fidgety in the preschool period, cannot stay in activities for too long, sleep and nutrition problems are frequently seen, the main increase in symptoms can be seen in school age. Complaints such as not being able to listen to the lesson, tending to chat with classmates, constantly running around during breaks and recesses, problems in emotion and anger management, and postponing homework are clearly seen. As impulsivity comes to the forefront during adolescence, the tendency towards risky behaviors, bad habits, conflicts at school and within the family increases. We see ADHD 2 times more in boys than girls,” he said.

“Medication should not be interrupted”

Emphasizing that families also have a lot of work to do in drug treatment, Specialist. Dr. Samira Huseynova said, “Our aim in treatment is not only to increase the child's school success, but also to prevent risks that may arise in the long term. The response to treatment is better in early diagnosis. Sometimes parents may insist that their children do not take medication, especially during vacation periods. However, we can see that complaints persist when medication is interrupted. We do not recommend 'vacation' in drug treatment. Because ADHD does not disappear on vacation. Therefore, when you realize that your child has similar problems, I recommend that you consult a child psychiatry specialist without delay.”