Although the symptoms of ADHD can vary, they are a fairly reliable way of identifying a potential problem in your child. The condition formerly called attention deficit disorder (ADD), 
now known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, has generated a great deal of controversy in the United States and many people believe it is over-diagnosed and over-medicated. Nevertheless, for those children who do suffer from ADHD, a combination of medication and counseling can be life changing.
Causes of ADD or ADHD
Today, approximately 6 to7 percent of children have been formally diagnosed with ADHD, and half will carry symptoms into adulthood. Although the cause is often not known, many children inherit the condition from parents. In some cases, ADHD can develop after a brain infection or head trauma. Environmental causes such as lead or PCB exposure have been linked to this disorder as well, as has exposure to tobacco smoke in the womb. Emerging research has identified a potential link between ADHD and some foods, and food-related chemicals such as dyes and preservatives, but additional studies are needed to confirm this link.
How ADHD Affects Your Child
Many families first become alerted to a problem when their child experiences academic difficulties. Kids may lack attention and focus, exhibiting hyperactive behaviors such as not being able to stay in their seat. They may stare out the window, daydream, forget things or become bored easily with tasks, switching among activities frequently. They may be unable to follow directions or appear not to be listening when spoken to. They may fidget or squirm, talk seemingly without taking a breath and frequently lose things. They may be impatient, speak inappropriately or have trouble controlling emotions. They may not be able to wait their turn. Learning disabilities are the most common result, but a variety of other conditions can accompany ADHD, including mood disorders, anxiety and substance abuse.
Treatment and Management of ADHD
For children who suffer from this disorder, the adoption of a medication and treatment regimen can make a dramatic difference. Academic performance and social interactions often improve rapidly once treatment begins. Medication is only part of ADHD management, however, and counseling is crucial for truly getting kids back on the right path. This is especially true for girls, if they are to return to typical emotional and intellectual development. Without both medication and counseling, children with ADHD can have a more difficult time earning a college degree.
Havenwood Academy offers an effective therapeutic program for teenage girls suffering from ADHD. Using experiential therapy and other proven counseling methods, girls learn to recognize and understand their symptoms, and develop effective coping strategies that lead to personal accomplishment and continued success. If you recognize the symptoms of ADHD in your daughter, contact Havenwood Academy to learn more.
Think Havenwood Might Be For You?
We encourage any visitors considering placing their daughter in treatment to fill out our online assessment as soon as possible. This two minute form will give our admissions team all the information needed to determine if your daughter is a good fit for our program.
Eric Allred was born and raised in Rigby, Idaho. He grew up on a family farm where he learned the value of work. He graduated from Rigby High School and attended Rick’s College, now known as BYU-Idaho. He received his bachelor’s degree in journalism from Utah State University, received a master’s degree in organizational behavior and human relations from the University of Phoenix and a second master’s degree in marital and family therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute. Eric has been involved in Rotary and was president of a local Rotary Club. He enjoys being with his family and doing outdoor activities such as fly fishing.
Chase was very fortunate to start in this industry as a struggling 17 year old kid looking for a mentor and something to be passionate about. Wilderness therapy was Chase’s first stop in this industry and was truly a transcendental experience for him. Chase has an enormous love for this line of work and the power that it has in creating change in everyone involved. Chase’s biggest belief is the power a mentor, strong, healthy relationships, and accountability can have on anyone, especially youth. Taking a very relational approach to his work, Chase has always been very relatable to the students he works with. Being able to understand and relate to a vast variety of the same struggles as a lot of the students he works with has been able to help him continue to grow, learn, and teach. Chase believes that with great rapport and trust, he can use his experience to continue to coach and train new staff, and has the ability to find those staff with the passion for this industry, and help them grow. His love and passion can be felt the moment you talk with Chase about this industry and he passes that on to others he works with. In his spare time you will find Chase cheering for the Eagles, Yankees, and Mavericks, hanging out with his brother, learning more about Eastern Psychology, and continuing to grow and learn.