ADHD is a condition which impairs the ability of a child to function correctly, because an individual is unable to be attentive, and is hyperactive or impulsive. In Derrick’s case, he is unable to study because he experiences difficulties with being seated for long periods of time. In addition, his problems with sleep are of a concern because they may lead to other issues and worsen the existing symptoms (Owens et al., 2013). An intervention carried out by medication can affect his sleep adversely as well. Therefore, accurately diagnosing comorbid issues and choosing a proper intervention while ensuring its effectiveness would be the biggest challenge when treating a child or adolescent from ADHD.
ADHD often occurs together with other issues, for instance, it is commonly diagnosed alongside ODD or conduct disorder. According to Perou et al. (2013), ADHD is among serious public health concerns due to “prevalence, early onset, and impact on the child, family, and community” (para. 1). The mentioned components and specifically the effects of the condition on a child and his family would be the biggest challenge in the case of Derrick.
Additionally, it is crucial to identify whether the patient has any their mental health issues. It is necessary because of Perou et al. (2013) state that suicide among children aged 12-17 in due to mental health issues was the second most prevalent cause of death in 2010. While the authors do not elaborate on the reasons, the events suggest that mental health issues severely affect children and adolescents. Proper diagnosis, family support, and an intervention plan which includes behavioral therapy, medication, and school-based program are essential in cases of severe mental health concerns in children and adolescents.
Response to Peer Posts
First Post
The post identifies psychological treatment as a crucial component of intervention for Derrick. According to Winter (2015), the most effective intervention for the Derrick’s condition includes behavioral therapy in combination with school support and pharmacological treatment. The response suggests medication, which is often used together with therapy in treating ADHD. An essential aspect of this response is co-occurring disorders.
Perou et al. (2013) state that it is crucial to test children with ADHD for other mental health problems as well. The post identified that proper diagnose is vital in this case, which is a valid approach to ADHD and similar conditions. Winter (2015) supports the argument by stating that “young people with ADHD have a greater than the chance occurrence of a number of other psychiatric conditions” (p. 23). This aspect may include anxiety, depression, disruptive behavior disorder or other mental health concerns.
Second Post
The response states that at the current development level it is crucial for Derrick to receive support from his social circle. According to Clarke et al. (2015), parent-teacher relationship and their involvement in the process of treatment are crucial for school-aged kids. It is especially vital as the peer states that adequate school performance is the primary concern for Derrick. Clarke et al. (2015) state that cases in which parents help children develop homework adherence have better treatment outcomes.
Thus, an adequate school-based intervention, together with other treatment strategies should help Derrick. Additionally, self-esteem that was mentioned in the discussion is among the crucial factors for Derrick. This statement corresponds with the evidence presented by Perou et al. (2013) and Ownes et al. (2013). It is necessary to evaluate the patient for other concurring conditions and create a treatment plan, which corresponds to the individual’s mental health state.
References
Clarke, A. T., Marshall, S. A., Mautone, J. A., Soffer, S. L., Jones, H. A., Costigan, T. E., … Power, T. J. (2015). Parent attendance and homework adherence predict response to a family-school intervention for children with ADHD. Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescents Psychology, 44(1), 58-67. Web.
Owens, J., Gruber, R., Brown, T., Corkum, P., Cortese, S., O’Brien, L., … Weiss, M. (2013). Future research directions in sleep and ADHD: Report of a consensus working group. Journal of Attention Disorders, 17(7), 550-564. Web.
Perou, R., Bitsko, R. H., Blumberg, S. J., Pastor, P., Ghandour, R. M., Gfroerer, J. C. … Huang, L. N. (2013). Mental health surveillance among children — United States, 2005–2011. Web.
Winter, J. O. (2015). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Psychosocial interventions for young people. Medicine Today, 16(5), 16-24.