Understanding ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is one of the most under-diagnosed conditions in North Bengal. Children are labelled lazy or naughty while adults struggle with disorganisation and unfinished work. Structured assessment and treatment produce a dramatic improvement in academic and occupational performance.
ADHD is not a discipline problem and it is not caused by mobile phones, although screens make it look worse. Diagnosis needs structured rating scales from both parents and teachers — not a five-minute opinion.
Signs that are worth taking seriously
- Difficulty sustaining attention
- Careless mistakes in schoolwork
- Excessive restlessness or fidgeting
- Talking excessively, interrupting others
- Losing belongings frequently
- Poor organisation and time management
- Impulsive decisions
- Underperformance despite good ability
When it is time to see a psychiatrist
Not every low patch needs a doctor. These are the points at which a clinical opinion genuinely helps rather than waiting longer:
- Symptoms present before age twelve and in more than one setting
- School reports repeatedly mention inattention or restlessness
- Careless mistakes despite understanding the material
- As an adult: chronic disorganisation, missed deadlines, impulsive decisions
How this is treated at the chamber
Assessment uses standardised rating scales completed by parents and teachers along with clinical interview. Management may combine behavioural parent training, classroom and study-skill strategies, medication where clearly indicated with growth and cardiac monitoring, and screening for co-existing learning disorder or anxiety.
What happens at the first visit
A full history, unhurried
What has been happening, for how long, and how it is affecting sleep, work, studies and family. Relatives can join if you want them to.
Examination and tests where needed
Thyroid, vitamin B12, sugar and other basic investigations are ordered when they could be contributing. Physical causes are ruled out before anything else.
The diagnosis, explained plainly
You are told what the condition is, what it is not, and why. No jargon and no vague reassurance.
A plan you have agreed to
Medication where it is needed, at the lowest dose that will work, plus counselling and follow-up dates. Cost is discussed openly.