Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD, refers to a frequently occurring neurodevelopmental condition affecting millions of people worldwide. In this blog, we will delve into the symptoms, causes, and treatments of ADHD, as well as strategies for managing the condition and living a fulfilling life.
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting individuals of all ages. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating, and may act on impulse. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a psychological health condition that impacts a person’s ability to function daily as well as their ability to succeed in school and at work. This can be initially discovered in school-aged children when they cause problems in the classroom or have difficulties with homework.
What are the causes of ADHD ?
The cause of ADHD is unknown, but researchers think it’s likely a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.
There is growing evidence that genetics have a role in ADHD, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder tends to run in families. Recent studies appear to link genetics and biological factors with ADHD. In addition to genetics, researchers are investigating additional potential causes and risk factors, such as:
- Brain injury particularly to the frontal lobe
- Usage of alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy
- Premature birth
- Low weight at the time of delivery
- Exposed to toxins during pregnancy or at an early age
- Although not a direct cause, but parenting style, family stress, and social factors
Types of ADHD
ADHD comes in three basic types:
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation:
The inattentive presentation describes problems with organization, attention, and staying on task. It is challenging for a child with ADHD to pay attention to the details or follow directions and conversations. The individual gets easily distracted or overlooks small details of daily life activities and may struggle to complete a task
If the following symptoms are present in a child he could be diagnosed with predominantly inattentive presentation:
- Does careless mistakes in tasks at school or at home
- Have trouble staying focused on any activities
- Does not appear to be listening when talking to them
- Does not follow through on instructions
- Does not complete the given tasks such as schoolwork
- Does not pay close attention to details
- Do not likes tasks that require persistent mental effort
- Misplaces things including school supplies
- Forgets daily tasks
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation:
This type of ADHD is characterized by symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity, such as restlessness, chattering, fidgeting, interrupting, and acting without thinking. Children with this type of ADHD may have trouble sitting still and may seem constantly running, jumping, or climbing.
Impulsive children may speak suddenly, seize objects from others, or interrupt others frequently. The person finds it challenging to follow instructions, stay silent or wait for their turn. Impulsiveness increases the likelihood of accidents and injury for some children.
For a diagnosis of this type of ADHD, the following symptoms occur frequently:
- Fidgets with hands or feet
- Nervous movement while seated
- Unable to remain quiet and talks too much
- Runs around, jumps, or climbs in places where it is not appropriate
- Unable to do any activities quietly
- Responds to a question before it has been fully asked
- Interrupts others while they are still talking
Combined Type
This kind of ADHD is diagnosed when both the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive conditions are present in a person. This is the most common type of ADHD, and is characterized by symptoms of both types. Individuals with this type of ADHD may have trouble paying attention and staying focused, as well as being restless, fidgety, and impulsive
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
The following common symptoms are frequently seen in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder:
- Have trouble paying proper attention
- Have a lack of focus on details
- Have a tendency to make careless mistakes
- Have a habit of losing classroom supplies
- Have difficulty listening to instructions
- Have a tendency to interrupt others while they are still talking
- Have trouble finishing classwork and homework
- Have difficulty paying attention
- Have an impulse to respond quickly out of impatience
- Have difficulty playing quietly
- Have a habit of constantly fidgeting
- Have trouble staying in their seats
- Have a tendency to pretend to be inattentive
- Have a tendency towards excessive talking
You're not alone and there's nothing wrong with you.
ADHD and School-Aged Children
Children who are in school can be significantly affected by ADHD since it can have a direct impact on their progress in school, social relationships, and overall well-being. Children with ADHD may find it challenging to maintain attention and organization in the classroom, which can result in low scores and difficulties doing homework. Additionally, they could struggle to obey rules and get along with their friends, which can make them feel lonely, frustrated, or low on self-worth.
However, it is prohibited by schools and by law that teachers can not diagnose ADHD by themselves, choose any treatment plan, or ask that a student take the medication in order to attend class. These decisions regarding a child’s healthcare are only permissible for parents, guardians, and the doctor.
ADHD and Adults
Sometimes, a childhood ADHD diagnosis is overlooked, but ADHD is not just a childhood disorder, As it can have a substantial impact on a person’s daily life even into adulthood.
Adults with ADHD may struggle with planning and time management, finance handling, following directions, focusing and finishing work, managing stress, and impulsivity. Some grown-ups may encounter difficulties in their relationships or socializing with others. Adults with ADHD experience feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
However, with the right diagnosis and treatment, adults with ADHD can learn coping mechanisms to effectively handle their symptoms and enhance their overall quality of life. Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder may get therapy, medication, and guidance on lifestyle changes, such as exercise and improved sleep habits.
Methods to Diagnose ADHD
There is no single test for ADHD because many other psychological conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders, might also exhibit symptoms that are similar to ADHD. In order to diagnose ADHD, a thorough examination of symptoms is necessary. A qualified psychological health professional, typically a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, can assess the symptoms.
Overall the evaluation is comprised of three steps:
Step 1: Verify the presence of symptoms.
Step 2: Confirm that the symptoms are not the result of other psychological health problems.
Step 3: Determine the presence of co-existing psychological health disorders, such as depression, or anxiety.
Technically, to be diagnosed with ADHD inattentive type, adults must have:
- To be diagnosed with inattention, at least five or more symptoms must persist for a minimum of six months. These symptoms should not be attributed to any other mental disorder and must disrupt or hinder one's social life. Additionally, some symptoms should have been present before the age of 12.
What are treatments available for ADHD ?
The majority of the time, counseling is used as the treatment process for school-aged children. The recommended approach for preschoolers and young children includes behavioral techniques, as well as therapy in the form of parent management training or school intervention.
PCIT is an evidence-based therapy designed to improve ADHD and oppositional defiance in young children through parent-child interaction. Other treatments for preschool-aged children with ADHD include classroom accommodations, occupational therapy, and social skills training. Medication is generally not recommended for children under the age of six, however the only FDA-approved treatment for ADHD in preschoolers is amphetamines.
Adults
There are numerous methods for treating adults with ADHD, but typically a combination of medicine and behavioral therapy achieves the best outcomes.
Medications. Psychostimulants, antidepressants, and non-stimulant medicines are the three main groups of prescribed medications used to treat this. These treatments impact the neurotransmitters responsible for sending signals to the cells of the brain.
Behavior modification. There are various treatment methods available for adults who have ADHD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) assists patients in identifying problematic habits, developing and putting strategies into practice like self-regulation, behavior change, and goal-achieving.
Acceptance commitment therapy is a treatment that helps people follow their own values and act accordingly instead of changing who they are. It empowers individuals to stay true to their beliefs.
Coaching. One strategy that has become increasingly popular in recent years is coaching. People with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can benefit from the support of a coach who provides feedback, recommendations, and encouragement. The coach helps the individual to find their own solutions to daily challenges.
Lifestyle changes: Exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help reduce symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Adults can also benefit from using organizational tools like calendars and reminder systems to keep on task and handle their everyday responsibilities.