Autism and ADHD: What parents should know

MANILA, Philippines - It used to be that when a little boy or girl was too aggressive and hyperactive, or too timid or not interactive enough, parents would dismiss it as just part of the child’s developmental years. But what if the hyperactivity becomes too annoying or the non-interactivity becomes too alarming — when should a parent worry?

Despite recent studies released publicly on developmental disabilities that affect children, parents remain clueless as to the red flag signs that their child is indeed suffering from a developmental condition. Among the most prevalent conditions today, autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), continue to challenge not only the children suffering from them, but more so their parents who are at a loss as to how they would help their children cope with such developmental conditions.

“The challenge to help children with autism or ADHD live quality lives depends on their parents. By learning about their child’s condition and the latest treatments available today, and giving their full love, understanding, patience, and support to the child, individuals with autism or ADHD can even become productive citizens of society,” says Dr. Joel Lazaro, a developmental and behavioral pediatrics expert from the Asian Hospital and Medical Center.

Autism is described as a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairment of verbal and non-verbal communication, reciprocal social interaction, and imaginative activity.

Explains Dr. Bernadette Benitez, also a developmental and behavioral pediatrics expert from the Asian Hospital: “There’s no specific cure, but there are treatment and intervention program options available to help children with autism or ADHD cope with their condition. Studies show that outlook for most children who receive treatment for ADHD or autism is encouraging, especially if intervention programs are started early enough.

“Asian Hospital and Medical Center offers comprehensive rehabilitation services for patients with autism and ADHD. Each patient is guaranteed of individualized and client-centered evaluation and management. The hospital also offers such individualized services to suit teens or adults with the same conditions depending on factors, such as their needs, goals and priorities,” says Julius Joseph Ablis, manager of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of Asian Hospital.

For more information on the rehabilitation services offered to patients with developmental and behavioral disabilities, call the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department of Asian Hospital and Medical Center at 876-5749 or 771-9000 to 02 local 5749. You may also visit www.asianhospital.com.