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Helping Kids with ADHD

by Steven D. Bevier

Every parent knows that getting a rambunctious child to sit still is a difficult task. And getting your child to concentrate on homework when he or she would rather be outside playing can be downright impossible. But when does a child’s natural abundance of energy cross the line to become a serious health problem?

That is a question pediatricians everywhere must deal with when it comes to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. ADHD is the most common behavior disorder diagnosed in children and

Dr. Greer at work at the Ingham County Child Health Clinic.

adolescents and nearly every person who works with children – from doctors to schoolteachers – will face this difficult condition.

“As a pediatrician, you need to understand that you will encounter ADHD,” says Tirza Greer, M.D. Dr. Greer has been a member of MSUCOM’s pediatrics department since 2000. She has seen a number of patients with ADHD, and through her clinical work she continues to learn a great deal about diagnosing and treating those who have it.

There are three things that all doctors look for when diagnosing possible ADHD patients. One, is inattentiveness or an inability to concentrate. Two, is a child who is overactive and cannot remain calm. The third is impulsivity. Any child who demonstrates two or more of these traits may be suffering from ADHD.

Dr. Greer stresses that an ADHD diagnosis should not be automatic. “I try to rule out all other possible factors,” she says. She explains that she will perform hearing and vision screening, test the child for lead poisoning, anemia or other metabolic conditions, and consult with social workers or psychologists to verify that the behavior is not caused by some underlying factor, like depression. Only when all the other possibilities have been ruled out will Dr. Greer make the diagnosis of ADHD.

“There is still a stigma attached to mental health,” explains Dr. Greer. “I don’t like putting that label on a child unless I am absolutely sure that is the issue. Part of dealing with this disease is making it more acceptable to the public. Doctors should also remain open to re-evaluating the diagnosis when necessary.”

ADHD results in many anti-social behaviors, which makes it important for treatment to have a social approach. There are medications that help control the symptoms of ADHD, but it is up to family members, teachers and counselors to get involved. It’s important to work with the child, help them set goals and provide positive reinforcement. Dr. Greer recommends regular visits to physicians and encourages the child’s teachers to help monitor and evaluate kids. “It’s a collaborative effort, with parents taking the lead.” she says.

Symptoms generally improve with age, but there is no cure for ADHD and many people will continue to struggle with inattention and impulsivity as adults. That’s why it’s important to address it early. Says Dr. Greer, “It’s in everybody’s interest."

Reaching Out to the Community

by Steven D. Bevier

MSUCOM takes pride in its commitment to providing health care services to the surrounding community. Willow Plaza Services is a joint venture between the college and the Ingham County Health Department. Ruth Worthington, D.O., (pictured) is one of several MSUCOM faculty members who work at Willow Plaza providing health care, education and support for adolescents, aged 11-21. From immunizations to sports physicals to peer counseling, the clinic helps kids get healthy and stay healthy.