Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is essential for recognizing how it affects individuals:

ADHD is a repeated pattern of hyperactivity, inattention, impulsiveness, or both that interferes with normal development and functioning. This condition is marked by specific symptoms lasting over six months across various settings such as home, school, or work. Key aspects include the onset of symptoms before age 12 that affect social or occupational functioning. These symptoms cannot be associated with older mental health conditions. ADHD includes symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

Inattention Symptoms

To be characterized as inattentive, an individual must exhibit six or more of the following:

  • Difficulty maintaining attention
  • Poor listening
  • Inability to follow through on instructions or finish tasks
  • Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • Failure to give attention to details
  • Avoidance of tasks requiring significant mental effort
  • Constantly or frequently loses things needed for tasks
  • Easily and highly distracted
  • Easily forgets daily activities

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity Symptoms

Six or more must be present, including:

  • Fidgeting
  • Excessive talking
  • Blurts out information before understanding the question
  • Difficulty waiting for turns
  • Leaving seat when expected to remain seated
  • Running and climbing in unexpected situations
  • Does not engage in or play quietly
  • Often acts “on the go”
  • Interrupts or intrudes on others

Types of ADHD

Inattentive:

This type is dominated by inattentive symptoms and lacking the criterion symptoms for hyperactivity or impulsivity

Hyperactive:

This type is dominated by hyperactivity or impulsivity symptoms with no significant criterion symptoms for inattention

Combined Type:

This type has symptoms criteria for both inattention and hyperactivity or impulsiveness

Causes of ADHD

Many factors contribute to the development of ADHD including

  • Neurobiological deficits
  • Problems with executive functions
  • Brain abnormalities
  • Neurotransmitter abnormalities (dopamine, norepinephrine)

Risk factors for ADHD.

  • Biology:
    • Genetics/family history
    • Brain structure and function
  • Premature birth could increase risk
  • Low birth weight
  • Prenatal exposure to
    •  Substance abuse,
    •  Infections, or
    •  Smoking 
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Trauma (emotional, psychological)
  • Learning disabilities (dyslexia)
  • Social relationships:
    • Bullying, Peer rejection
  • Chronic illnesses
  • Trauma (head injuries)
  • Gender (more common in boys)
  • Cultural sensitivities
  • Environmental:
    • Family conflicts,
    • Poverty,
    • Exposure to toxins
  • Socioeconomics 
    • Poor Diet
    • Deficiencies
    • Poor prenatal care

Treatment and Management of ADHD.

Treatment for ADHD involves medication, Psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Guidelines depend on severity, age, comorbidities, monitoring individual needs, family involvement, and cultural sensitivity.

  • Medication management: Different medications are used depending on the specific type and severity of ADHD, as each class of drugs works uniquely to relieve or prevent symptoms.
  • Medications may include Stimulants, non-stimulants, or a combination of both, along with antidepressants.
  • Psychotherapies include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), parent educational training (parent-child interaction therapy), or social skills training.
  • Other treatment considerations include Addressing comorbidities, Cultural sensitivities, Trauma-informed care, and Patient education.

Prevent, manage, and live life with Bipolar.

  • Focusing on education and understanding your family medical history.
  • Early recognition through screening is crucial to getting help promptly.
  • It’s important to monitor and report any symptoms, including suicidal thoughts.
  • Keeping a log or journal can help recognize triggers.
  • Early intervention and starting treatment are key steps.
  • Join support groups to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and ensure you have a strong support network.
  • Connecting with others who experience similar challenges can provide valuable support.

Lifestyle changes:

  • Establishing daily routines
  • Maintaining a healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Good sleep hygiene
  • Learn stress management techniques, along with relaxation activities.

These can also benefit overall well-being.

In Case of Emergency

For suicidal ideation or any danger to self or others, call 911

OR go to the nearest hospital to learn how to seek help.

Recourse:

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