Active or Hyperactive?

You’re out of breath… but how can you know whether your child is simply overflowing with energy or this surplus of vitality hides a more serious problem, like hyperactivity?

Generally, problem behaviour is detected at school. A tireless little guy who has no difficulties at school and maintains good relations with his friends should not be a cause for concern. On the other hand, a turbulent child who cannot get organised, stay focused or make friends needs special attention.

You should also be aware that Ritalin, which is prescribed to children with attention deficit with or without hyperactivity, is not a relaxant but a stimulant. It is used to help a child concentrate, not to calm him or her. Generally, the physician looks for three indicators before proposing it: failing at school despite being intellectually average or superior, asocial behaviour and loss of self esteem.

While Ritalin is not a cure, it is used as a sort of crutch, to enable the child to learn, function and develop essential strategies, after which medication is stopped.

Proper diagnosis is essential! So, when in doubt, there is no point rushing to the doctor’s office without a report from the school in hand to provide a complete picture of the situation.