If you need accommodations for school/college/university – you need a psychoeducational assessment either privately or through the school system.

It’s solely based on your/your child’s symptoms. If confirmed the traditional medicine approach is to medicate starting at age 7-8 if I remember correctly.

Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule that work for each individual without significant short-term side-effects is trial and error. Long-term effects are another story.

Also you need to keep in mind that these meds do not cure adhd but rather provide temporary relief from symptoms (which is great for exams!!!).

Though lots to think about and discuss with medical professionals especially if there are other health conditions present.

If you’re looking for and ready to invest into a long-term solution try to find the root of the problem. This is where a holistic approach can help. We chose this route with our daughter and her ability to concentrate has improved significantly.

Start by checking out all other conditions / issues that affect human’s ability to concentrate.

Some specialists to see and issues to rule out if you suspect ADHD

DEVELOPMENTAL OPTOMETRIST – some issues with vision present like adhd-like symptoms. Regular optometrists don’t check this. You can google the difference between just optometrist and developmental, also eyesight vs vision. If there is a history of brain injury (concussion etc) – seriously, *must* be checked by a developmental optometrist.

NASAL BREATHING – without proper breathing the brain does not receive enough oxygen to function properly. There are therapists and airway-focused dentists who can help with this. Hyperventilation also causes/increases anxiety.

NUTRITION and SLEEPING – without proper nutrition and sleep the brain can’t function properly as well. If there is apnea it might be breathing related, see above. And I know it’s easier said than done with teenagers.

OSTEOPATH / CHIROPRACTOR – to address possible postural issues. If there are issues with blood flow and/or nerves in the neck it also affects concentration.

PRIMITIVE REFLEXES INTEGRATION – sometimes kids brains need some help to integrate these reflexes and mature using special exercises.

ANXIETY / PTSD / DEPRESSION – also can present like lack of focus. Could be addressed by counselling, medication or combination of both. Please keep in mind that all of the above issues contribute to mental health as well.

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