Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person's ability to focus, pay attention, and control their impulses. ADHD is typically diagnosed in childhood, but it can persist into adulthood.
There are three types of ADHD:
Inattentive type - where a person has difficulty paying attention and may be forgetful or easily distracted
Hyperactive-impulsive type - where a person is fidgety, restless, and impulsive
Combined type - which includes symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
ADHD can have a significant impact on a person's daily life, including their performance in school or work, their relationships with others, and their overall quality of life. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals with ADHD can manage their symptoms and lead successful lives.
What does ADHD look like?
The symptoms of ADHD can vary from person to person, but in general, they fall into two main categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Here are some examples of what ADHD might look like in each of these categories:
Inattention symptoms:
Difficulty paying attention to details or following through on tasks
Easily distracted by external stimuli or internal thoughts
Difficulty organizing tasks or activities
Forgetfulness or losing track of things
Avoiding or disliking tasks that require sustained mental effort
Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms:
Fidgeting or restlessness, such as tapping feet or squirming in chairs
Difficulty sitting still, even in situations where it's expected (e.g., at school or during meetings)
Interrupting others or blurting out answers before a question is finished
Difficulty waiting for their turn or taking turns in conversations or games
Acting impulsively, such as taking risks without thinking about the consequences
It's important to note that not all people with ADHD exhibit the same symptoms, and some may exhibit symptoms more frequently or severely than others. Additionally, some people with ADHD may only exhibit symptoms in certain situations, such as at school or work.
How do you treat ADHD?
There is no known cure for ADHD, but it can be effectively managed with a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Treatment for ADHD typically involves a collaborative approach between the individual with ADHD, their family, and healthcare providers. Here are some common treatment options for ADHD:
Medication: Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based drugs (Adderall), are commonly used to treat ADHD. These medications help improve focus and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera), can also be used to treat ADHD.
Therapy: Therapy can help individuals with ADHD learn coping strategies and develop better habits. One component of therapy for ADHD involves the co-development of tools for time management, organization, and problem-solving skills. Another approach is to help the individual with ADHD to understand, process, and shed the anxiety and the shame that often plague those individuals affected by ADHD.
Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle changes can also help manage symptoms of ADHD. This may include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and developing good study or work habits. Some individuals may also find it helpful to limit distractions, such as avoiding noisy or crowded environments when possible.
It's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right combination of treatments for each individual. In some cases, additional support may be needed, such as accommodations in school or the workplace. With proper treatment and support, individuals with ADHD can lead successful and fulfilling lives.