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The Truth About Medications for ADHD Children
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a syndrome characterized by impulsivity, inattentiveness, hyperactivity and distractibility. While many medications, generally stimulants, are in widespread use in treating children with ADHD, they can have serious side effects. Some parents of children with ADHD prefer alternative therapies to prescription drugs, although claims of health benefits are not borne out by compelling research to date.
ADHD Medication & Effects
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a condition that causes children to be impulsive, overly active or to have trouble paying attention and focusing. Some children with ADHD struggle with all three symptoms. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, your doctor may recommend several treatment options. You and your doctor should set goals for the treatment, according to MedlinePlus, and re-evaluate it if those goals are not met.
Ways to Deal With Depression in Children
While we often think of depression as an illness affecting adults and adolescents, children can also experience depression. Treatment options for children include inpatient or outpatient therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy and antidepressant medication, as well as treatment for other psychiatric disorders that may contribute to depression. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment are essential in cases of childhood depression.
Depression in Pregnancy
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 13 percent of pregnant women suffer from depression, a serious illness that is not likely to improve without treatment. Research has shown that untreated depression during pregnancy can increase the risk of preeclampsia, a type of high blood pressure that occurs during pregnancy, poor weight gain, as well as the use of drugs or alcohol to self-medicate and, even, suicide.
Depression Post Pregnancy
Post-pregnancy depression is not uncommon after the birth of a baby. Approximately half of all new mothers experience some form of post pregnancy (also known as postpartum) depression. It can be quite brief and and temporary, known as the post-pregnancy “blues,” but it can also be moderate or quite severe.