
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a chronic, neurological disorder. It affects both children and adults.
The symptoms are usually present before the individual is 12 years old and interfere with their daily life.
The symptoms are typically grouped into three categories: hyperactivity-impulsivity, inattention and impulsivity.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental health condition that affects both children and adults. It is not a cure, but it can be managed and controlled with psychoeducation, therapy and medication.
Symptoms and signs of ADHD vary from person to person, but they generally include inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity. They may also include difficulties managing time and organizing.
Forgetfulness: People with ADHD often forget things easily or forget important dates or tasks. It can be frustrating for them to not remember where they put something.
Disorganization: This can be hard for people with ADHD because they have a difficult time keeping their homes organized. It can make them feel embarrassed when they have guests over, or it can cause them to have trouble focusing on their work.
Fidgeting: This is another common symptom of ADHD. It is hard for them to sit still for long periods of time. They may take frequent breaks from completing a task or assignment because they feel restless.
Insecurity: A lot of people with ADHD are self-conscious or feel like they aren’t good enough. They can also have feelings of inadequacy when they don’t meet others’ expectations, such as school performance or a job.
Types of ADHD
ADHD is a mental health condition that causes trouble with focus and attention. While it typically develops in children, adults can also be diagnosed with ADHD. Understanding the different types of ADHD can help you find strategies to overcome the challenges that come with it.
The American Psychiatric Association has defined three main types of ADHD, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common type is combination ADHD, which consists of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
People with this type of ADHD often misplace their car keys and cell phones on a regular basis. They can also struggle to remember important details, such as their phone number and where they put their glasses.
They may also have temper outbursts or struggles with self-control. They can also struggle to get their work done on time.
Another common sign is that they are easily distracted by other things going on around them. They are more likely to be late for school or activities because they can’t pay attention.
If you think that you or a loved one might have ADHD, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can make a diagnosis and prescribe medication that will reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Medications work by increasing the production of chemicals in your brain that help you with thinking and attention.
Causes of ADHD
There are several factors that have been linked to the development of ADHD, including genetics, environment and stress. Prenatal exposure to chemicals, such as lead or pesticides, may also increase the risk of developing the disorder.
Children who experience traumatic brain injury (TBI) are at increased risk for developing ADHD. This is because TBI may cause changes in the brain that make it hard to pay attention and focus.
The most common symptoms of TBI-related ADHD include trouble staying focused, poor impulse control, lack of focus on academic tasks and difficulty with social interaction. Symptoms often appear within a few years after the injury.
If you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, talk to your doctor about treatment options. These can range from behavioral therapy to prescription medications.
Taking medication can help you stay focused, reduce anxiety and avoid impulsive behavior. Medications can also improve your productivity at work and at home, manage stress, reduce anger and help you communicate more effectively.
Managing the symptoms of ADHD can help you get more out of life, but you should know that it is not easy. It takes a lot of effort and support to overcome this condition.
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ADHD is made by a health professional, such as a doctor or psychologist. It is usually based on symptoms that are present for a long time and interfere with daily life, such as in school or work.
The primary symptoms of ADHD are inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms can be accompanied by other problems, such as sleep disorders, anxiety, depression and physical conditions or illnesses.
These other problems may be easier to diagnose, but they do not always mean that a person has ADHD. In addition, some other mental health disorders and certain types of learning disabilities can have symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, doctors may classify a person with ADHD as mild, moderate or severe under the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). A diagnosis of “mild” means that few symptoms are present beyond the number needed to make a diagnosis; symptoms result in minor impairment in social, school or work settings; and there is no serious medical cause for the symptoms.
There are different ways to treat the symptoms of ADHD, and each treatment has its own benefits and side effects. It is important to note that the most effective treatments for ADHD involve a combination of medication and psychotherapy. This is because psychotherapy can help people with ADHD learn skills and strategies to manage their symptoms. It can also help them cope with the frustrations and stress that can come with the condition.
Treatsments for ADHD
The goal of treatment for ADHD is to help patients manage their symptoms so that they can live a normal life. Treatment can include a variety of methods, including behavioral therapy, prescription medication and alternative treatments.
Stimulants are a common first choice for treating ADHD because they work by increasing the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine (neurotransmitters) in the brain. However, they are habit-forming and should be used with caution in patients who have glaucoma, advanced arteriosclerosis, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure or hyperthyroidism.
If stimulants aren’t effective, non-stimulant medications may be tried. These drugs are less effective than stimulants at treating ADHD symptoms but they do work and can help to reduce impulsive behavior, anxiety and restlessness.
Medications are usually prescribed by a doctor, who will carefully monitor your progress and adjust the dose based on your response. Your doctor should also check your heart rate, blood pressure and weight.
Psychotherapy is another important form of treatment for ADHD. During this process, you’ll learn how to change negative thinking patterns and develop strategies for coping with your disorder.
Medication for ADHD is generally prescribed by a doctor, who will carefully watch your progress and adjust the dose based on how well it is working. Medications are typically prescribed once a month in the beginning and then at least every three months to ensure that you are taking your medication properly and to help prevent side effects.
ADHD in Adults
In adults, the symptoms of ADHD can be more subtle and harder to catch. However, it is never too late to seek a diagnosis and treatment for an adult with ADHD or another mental health disorder.
For example, it is common for adults with ADHD to have difficulty focusing on their work or projects, especially when fatigued. They may also have difficulty prioritizing tasks or completing them within time limits.
They may also make careless mistakes or not remember important details, such as where they put their spare key for the back door or where to find a particular document.
The problems of ADHD often affect relationships with others, particularly with a partner or friend. For instance, they may not listen well and fail to meet commitments, leading to misunderstandings or anger in a relationship.
People with ADHD may be more likely to develop anxiety or depression, a mental health condition that can also cause distractions and difficulties with focus. This can result in social isolation and problems at work or school.
Fortunately, it is not uncommon for adults with ADHD to improve their symptoms through a combination of psychotherapy and medications. This can be very helpful in improving concentration and reducing impulsive behavior and risky behaviors.
ADHD Medication
The most effective ADHD medications are stimulants (like Ritalin, Adderall, or Focalin). They improve focus, help people stay calm, and reduce hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors.
Stimulant medications include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine (Dexedrine). Methylphenidate works by boosting the brain’s levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the neurotransmitters associated with motivation, pleasure, and attention.
Methylphenidate is the first-choice medicine for children and adolescents with ADHD. It’s available in tablets, which can be taken 2 to 4 times a day.
Nonstimulants (brand names: atomoxetine, guanfacine, and clonidine) are another type of medication that’s used to treat ADHD. They work slowly, but they can be helpful in children who do not respond to stimulant medicines or have side effects from the drugs.
Parents can also try behavioral therapy, which helps teach kids to manage their ADHD symptoms. This treatment can help them learn new skills and change negative thinking patterns.
Other types of medication may be prescribed, including antidepressants and blood pressure medications (such as guanfacine or clonidine). These medications are used “off-label” to treat ADHD, but studies show they are safe for many people.
My story of being diagnosed as having ADHD at 30, and what I think about the medication they prescribed me. Is it really worth it to take Amphetamines such as Adderall, Vyvanse, or Dexedrine in the long run or do they cause more harm than good?
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