Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a developmental disorder which shows symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity. Symptoms of ADHD begin in childhood and it impacts daily life, social interactions, and work/school performance. ADHD is commonly found in adults and teens, but adults can also have this disorder.

Risk Factors

• If a parent or sibling has ADHD or another mental health disorder.

• If your Mom drank or smoked during pregnancy.

• If you have come in contact with environmental toxins as a child.

• You were born prematurely.

Complications of ADHD

• Depression and anxiety

• Sleep issues

• Eating Disorders

• Substance use disorder

• Impulsive behaviors

  Symptoms of ADHD

• Inattention- This refers to people that struggle to stay on task/ focus.

  • Does not complete schoolwork

  • Does not listen when spoken to

  • Forgets daily tasks

• Hyperactivity is when a person has excessive movement/ fidgeting.

  • fidgets with hands and feet

  • A person who is always going places

  • Talks too much

• Impulsivity is acting without thinking or struggling with self-control.

  • Struggling to be patient

  • Moving around when expected to be seated

  • Interrupting others

How is ADHD Diagnosed

Someone can be diagnosed with three different types of ADHD

• Hyperactive- implusive

• Inattentive

• A combination of hyperactive, inattentive, and impulsive

• Children 16 years old need to show six symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity

• Adults have to show at least five symptoms in order to be diagnosed.

Treatment for ADHD

• Medications can help to increase brain chemical levels for thinking and attention.

• Psychotherapy and behavioral interventions can help people cope with daily challenges and gain confidence,

  • Behavioral therapy can help some change their behavior by organizing tasks, and social skills, completing schoolwork, and monitoring someone's behavior.

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy helps a person to focus on concentration. They can help to break down tasks into smaller pieces.

  • Family and marital therapy helps family members learn how to handle behavior and interactions with children and partners.

Are there benefits from ADHD?

Yes there are some benefits such as:

• Hyperfocus

• Resiliency

• Conversational Skills

• Ample energy

• Creativity

Sources

• https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-what-you-need-to-know

• https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/index.html

• https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4784-attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder-adhd

Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board