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Warning-sign checks

Childhood ADHD: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help if the child has severe trouble breathing, collapses, has chest pain with severe illness, takes a possible medication overdose, or is at immediate risk of harming themselves or someone else.

    Suicidal thoughts or behavior require urgent evaluation through local emergency services or a crisis service.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact the prescribing clinician promptly for concerning medication reactions, major mood or behavior changes, new hallucinations, fainting, or a racing or irregular heartbeat.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    ADHD usually requires ongoing follow-up rather than a one-time visit.

    Early in treatment, appointments may be more frequent while the plan is adjusted.

    Once symptoms and side effects are stable, routine reviews still help track progress.

    Follow-up may include feedback from the child, family, and school.

    The clinician may review learning, friendships, family routines, sleep, appetite, growth, blood pressure, and emotional health.

    Treatment should be reconsidered when demands change, such as during a school transition or adolescence.

    Arrange a routine appointment if symptoms are worsening, treatment does not seem to help, side effects are persistent, or school performance or relationships are declining.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Childhood ADHD. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.