ADHD or Trauma? – Ruling Out Trauma

Are you noticing negative behaviors in your child and wondering if they may have ADHD? Or have you noticed your child has been losing focus or acting different and wondering if they have experienced trauma recently or in their past? Has your child been isolating themselves at home and/or at school or are their grades dropping?

These are valid and concerning questions. It is important to recognize signs previously mentioned and to seek help. It is okay to be worried about your child when they act differently for any period of time. They may not even realize they are acting differently or know what is wrong. They may know what is wrong and not know how to tell you or not know who to go to. It could be as simple as just being embarrassed about not being able to not focus in class.

There are ways to explore the situation at hand. Symptoms of trauma and ADHD may present similarly, which is why it is important to rule out trauma. ADHD does not lead to trauma, although trauma can lead to ADHD. Assessing your child for trauma is a necessary step to rule it out. Your child may have had trauma in the past or are currently experiencing trauma as well as having ADHD. There are treatments available for both. There are a wealth of coping skills available to manage emotions and stress as well as knowing how to process certain situations and reactions.

Maybe you are tired of wondering what is going on with your child. Maybe you are tired of stressing about the “what if’s.” Do you need a change in behaviors at home? Do you need your child to have a healthier well-being? Call or make an appointment today.

Kristi Quattrochi, MSW, PLMHP, PCMSW
AdultSpan Counseling
1001 South 70th St. Suite 225
Lincoln, NE 68510 Phone: 402-325-0117 Ext. 14