Experts Weigh Risks, Benefits of Sports for Youth With ADHD

Photo: SwimmerMany studies show that sports can lead to functional improvements in children with ADHD, but these youth are also more likely to experience sports-related injuries.

Sooner or later, many parents are faced with a decision about how best to introduce a child to the world of sports. While there are physical and emotional benefits of sports participation for youth, there are also some risks. For parents of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who have an interest sports, the risk-benefit analysis may take on greater significance. Research has shown that in addition to providing an opportunity for youth to release energy, participation in sports can improve focus and attention. At the same time, there is ample evidence that youth with ADHD have higher risks of sports-related injuries, including concussions. For more information, please visit https://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.pn.2018.10b3.

Picture courtesy of https://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.pn.2018.10b3.

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