Early diagnosis of mental disorder stressed

Psychiatrists on Friday stressed launching an awareness campaign to educate the public about the importance of early diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) among children.

They said the mental disorder of neuro-development affects children’s behavior around the world.

Speaking on the issue, renowned psychiatrist Dr Yasir Masood Afaq said it is recommended that parents, educators and medical professionals should play their role to raise awareness regarding this disorder amongst children for timely treatment.

“Awareness drives in schools are very much important to help parents in understanding ADHD,” he said. Children with ADHD symptoms welcome easily accessible distractions, and they should avoid watching television, video games, and computer as it encourages impulsive behaviour in them. Therefore, it should be regulated by consulting a relevant doctor.

“We need to decrease kids’ screen time and increase their outdoor physical activities because physical activities burn excess energy in healthy ways. It also helps a child to focus their attention on specific movements, he further added.

Another way to control the impulse to speak before thinking is to teach your child how to pause a moment before talking or replying, the expert said. Parents and teachers should encourage more thoughtful responses by helping their child with homework assignments and asking interactive questions about a favorite television show or book, he advised.

He believes that athletics can help a child with ADHD find a constructive way to focus their passion, attention, and energy.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 8^th, 2023.