MHM Magazine

18 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 2022 | Issue 5 MHM Teachers can assist with correct placement of the child in the classroom to minimise distractions, use techniques to foster attention, encourage the child to counteract feelings of discouragement and offer praise and rewards for desirable behaviours to build self-esteem. Teachers can also communicate to parents to discuss ways to support the child. In addition, teachers are also able to provide vital feedback regarding the child’s progress (behaviourally and academically) once ADHD has been identified and treated, to guide the treatment team. PARENTS Parental training can provide a parent with the tools to implement behaviour modification strategies. Children with ADHD are often stressful for the parent to manage and can be challenging at times. Parents need to be the strong, consistent, positive influence on their children. They need to be a good role model for their child to ensure good behavioural modelling. Parents need to try and ensure they implement structure and routine in the day and that they’re getting the right help for their child by being open with teachers and doctors. ADHD COACHES More recently, ADHD coaches have become popular. While they do work with children, coaches more often help adolescents and adults to develop coping skills to help them to better manage their lives. They can assist with developing planning and management strategies, time management, self- motivation, and creating a better sense of self-efficacy. Holistic and multidisciplinary management of ADHD can be complex and multidimensional. However, it’s important to focus on the various other aspects of an individual’s life that may be impacted by ADHD. Additionally, it’s always important to be cognisant of the other factors that can mimic ADHD or increase the symptoms and to ensure that a thorough history and medical workup is completed to ensure the best care is provided to the individual. Each individual with ADHD will present differently and cases should be managed on a case-by-case basis, always keeping the best interests of the patient and family in mind. Creating a referral network of various professionals who you trust enables you to be confident in your diagnosis, but also offer your patient the best care and support.