Lockdown is an extra challenge for children with ADHD

Lockdown can make ADHD worse

Children and young people with ADHD are extra sensitive to stress due to the corona measures. The normal daily rhythm of school, friends, sports and hobbies has been completely disrupted by the lockdown. There is no daily school and homework rhythm, they have less contact with friends and many hobbies have been jeopardized by the measures. For children and young people with ADHD it appears to be even more difficult than for others to follow distance education. Following corona measures such as keeping your distance is also more difficult if you have ADHD. Add to that being home all day with the family, which can quickly add to any tensions. In short, the disruption of normal routine during a lockdown can exacerbate ADHD problems.

Treatment of ADHD during the corona pandemic

Proper treatment of ADHD is therefore important during a lockdown. That is why the EAGG has recently drawn up guidelines for the treatment of ADHD during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the experts of the EAGG, during strict corona measures, it is important that the treatment of ADHD continues, possibly via telephone or video consultations. Furthermore, these experts advise not to simply increase the dose of ADHD medication when problems increase. Always consult the attending physician about adjusting the dosage. Reducing the dosage or stopping medication is also not recommended because the corona measures actually increase the chance of an increase in problems.

Special attention to ADHD

During the corona pandemic, the EAGG calls for special attention for young people with ADHD. The corona measures can lead to sleeping problems, depressed feelings and family conflicts. It is good if parents have extra understanding for young people with ADHD in the corona time. As a parent, try to stay in touch with your child and help your child with the daily routine. Schools and teachers should also pay extra attention to young people with ADHD. Do they follow the online classes, do their homework and are they doing well socially and emotionally? If there are concerns, teachers should actively support young people with ADHD and their parents.

6 tips for parents of children with ADHD during a lockdown

The EAGG has 6 tips for parents of children with ADHD during the corona pandemic. These tips are also very useful if your children do not have ADHD!

1. Stay positive and motivated

Remember that no parent is perfect.

2. Make sure all family members know what is expected of them

Draw up simple house rules and draw a line as parents.

3. Build your child’s confidence

Children may react differently when they are anxious and insecure. Take the time to listen to your child. Give lots of positive feedback and try to do things together that you enjoy as a family.

4. Help your child do what you ask him or her

Stay calm and give warnings if your child isn’t listening.

5. Reward good behavior

Use rewards if your child follows the rules. Make it clear when your child will receive which reward and keep your promise. Only use punishments as a last resort when temporarily taking away something that is valuable to your child.

6. Limit Conflicts

Establish a daily routine. If you find yourself starting to overreact, take a step back, take a deep breath, and think twice before moving forward.

Source

Cortese S et al, ADHD management during the COVID-19 pandemic: guidance from the European ADHD Guidelines Group, Lancet Child Adolesc Health. 2020;4(6):412-414 including supplementary appendix