What is Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects the way children focus and pay attention. It can also impact their ability to complete schoolwork and social activities.
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms often overlap with those of other conditions or traumatic events. Your doctor will look for a pattern of problems that can’t be explained by any other factor.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
There are many signs and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
In children, inattention looks like problems with focusing on schoolwork and listening to teachers or other people’s instructions. It may also look like forgetting homework or other tasks.
Some kids with ADHD also have problems controlling their emotions, which can cause problems at home and in relationships. They might act out or show anger in ways that aren’t appropriate or risky for the situation.
During adolescence, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior may lessen. However, these symptoms may remain.
They may interrupt other people, talk too much, or try to get things their own way. They might push, grab, or get into fights with other people.
The most important thing to remember is that these symptoms aren’t normal for young kids. If you notice them in your child, talk to your doctor about it.
Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial for finding the right treatment. A mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, can perform a thorough evaluation to make the diagnosis. This requires gathering information from multiple sources, including the ADHD symptom checklist, standardized behavior rating scales, a detailed history of current and past functioning, and interviews with family members, teachers, or others who know the person well.
Types of ADHD
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) defines three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, primarily hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. For each type, physicians use a specific set of behavioral symptoms to determine the diagnosis.
Inattentive: People with this type of ADHD have trouble staying focused on things for long periods of time. They may easily lose track of tasks, forget appointments or even forget to return phone calls.
Interrupts others: Adults with this type of ADHD often interrupt conversations and intrude on people’s space. They also have a hard time waiting their turn, which can make it difficult for them to complete tasks in school and work.
Hyperactive: Children and adults with this type of ADHD run around and climb where it’s not appropriate. They can also get up from a chair, stand, or walk away from their desk, or even from an assigned post at work or school before they’re supposed to.
This is the most common type of ADHD and is most often diagnosed in children. It’s also more common in boys than girls. It’s also more common among children who come from under-resourced communities, such as those that are poor or in rural areas.
Causes of ADHD
There is no single cause for ADHD, but there are a variety of factors that contribute to its development. These include genetics, toxins, exposure to substances during prenatal development, and certain medical conditions.
Genetics are the most obvious and important cause of ADHD, but they don’t explain everything. Other factors that can contribute to the disorder are family stress, parenting styles, and environmental and social factors.
In children with ADHD, there are also differences in brain anatomy and electrical activity. This makes it difficult for the brain to function properly.
One possible explanation for this is that kids with ADHD tend to have less dopamine in their brains. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter that helps your child feel good about themselves when they do certain things.
This lack of dopamine in the brain may lead to impulsive behavior that doesn’t have a good reward for your child. For example, if your daughter wants to ride the neighbor’s horse, she will do it even though she doesn’t get much reward from it.
There are a number of treatment options for ADHD, including medication and behavioral therapy. Psychiatrists and child psychologists can help your child develop better social skills, organization, and self-control.
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of ADHD is a complex process that includes testing, interviews, and medical evaluations. These tests are usually performed by a mental health provider or primary care physician.
The doctor will use information gathered by you, your child’s teachers, and other caregivers to make the diagnosis. They will also ask you for a detailed psychiatric and medical history.
A hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD is diagnosed when a child has six or more of the following symptoms. These include running or climbing where it’s not appropriate, fidgeting with their hands or feet, squirming frequently, and interrupting others while talking or playing.
This type of ADHD is most common in children. These kids often get in trouble at school because they’re constantly distracted or aren’t paying attention. They can be loud and obnoxious.
An inattentive type of ADHD is diagnosed when a child doesn’t have the symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity. These symptoms include problems paying attention, daydreaming, or seeming distracted.
The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) provides guidelines for making an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms of inattentive ADHD are often overlooked, but they have a significant impact on life. These symptoms can include getting in hot water with teachers or parents, being underperforming in school, or clashing with other children over not playing by the rules.
Treatsments for ADHD
There are many effective treatments for ADHD, ranging from behavioral intervention to prescription medication. Medications can help control symptoms and reduce related problems such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and antisocial behavior.
Stimulant medications improve communication between multiple areas of the brain, which can improve attention, concentration, and self-control. Methylphenidate (sample brand names: Concerta, Focalin, Metadate, Methylin, Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (brand name Adderall) are the most common stimulants used to treat ADHD.
Several nonstimulant medications are also available. Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the prefrontal cortex, which can reduce behavioral problems associated with ADHD.
In addition to medications, psychotherapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and family counseling are often recommended. Studies show that these interventions can help patients with ADHD manage their symptoms and improve their relationships with others.
Treatment for ADHD should be designed to address the specific needs of each patient and their family. The most important goals are to improve control of ADHD symptoms, increase coping skills, and improve social relationships.
ADHD in Adults
If you have symptoms of ADHD in adulthood, it’s important to seek treatment. This will help you better understand the condition and manage your symptoms. It can also give you more confidence and a better appreciation of your strengths.
A proper diagnosis requires a thorough clinical evaluation that includes observation, self-reporting, and mental-status testing. It often involves going back to school years, reviewing family history, and evaluating comorbid conditions that often coexist with ADHD (comorbid disorders).
One of the main treatments for adult ADHD is medication, but there are several other therapies that may be helpful as well. These include psychotherapy, behavior management strategies, and support from immediate family members.
Another treatment option is the use of stimulants, which can help adults with ADHD concentrate, be less impulsive and feel more calm. Stimulants are prescribed by a doctor, and they are typically used in combination with behavioral therapy.
In addition, many people with ADHD struggle with issues with executive functioning (the brain’s ability to prioritize and organize thoughts and actions). This can lead to problems with memory, planning and decision-making. These difficulties can also cause difficulty with work and home tasks. They can affect relationships, finances, and other aspects of an individual’s life.
ADHD Medication
ADHD medications help improve attention, focus and concentration. They are used to treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The most common type of medication is a stimulant.
Stimulant medications (methylphenidate and amphetamines) work by increasing levels of two brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine. They also can be helpful for people who feel jittery or anxious when they have ADHD.
Methylphenidate is the most widely prescribed medicine, and it usually doesn’t cause serious long-term problems. However, it can make you lose appetite or have trouble sleeping. It can also raise your blood pressure and heart rate, especially when you first start taking it.
Your health care team will help you choose the right medication and dose for your symptoms and conditions. They will also monitor your body to make sure the medicine works and doesn’t cause side effects.
You may need to try several different medicines before you find the one that works best for you. Your doctor can recommend a few options, including short-acting and long-acting stimulants.
Long-acting formulas stay in your body for longer, helping you feel focused throughout the day. They can be easier for some people to take than short-acting formulas, and they are cheaper to buy.
On this podcast Episode Tara McGillicuddy talks with Dana Rayburn about the The Secret Habits of Organized People. Dana shares some life changing tips that will help adults with ADHD become organized and have more control in their lives.
Dana Rayburn specializes in coaching adults with Attention Deficit Disorder to live more successful, effortless and rewarding lives despite their ADD or AD/HD. Dana is committed to bringing clarity and simplicity into her client’s lives. As Dana’s client Sandy recently said, “I am filled with a sense of calm and hope when I work with Dana.”
Her personal struggle with inattentive ADD, cemented Dana’s decision to become an ADD coach. She says, “I know how much more satisfying my life has been since I’ve applied the structure that helps me manage my ADD, and I want to share that with my clients. Though ADD can be a struggle, I see it as a gift that makes life much more exciting and rich than it would otherwise be. I want to help my clients learn to use their ADD to their advantage and to set themselves up for success.”
Dana came to coaching as a professional organizer. Since 1992, Dana has taught businesses and individuals practical ways to manage paper, stuff, space and time; skills greatly needed by her ADD clients. Prior to that she was business systems analyst for Hughes Aircraft Company in Los Angeles. Dana is a magna cum laude graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills with a degree in business administration. She lives with her husband, daughter and dogs in the beautiful Rogue River Valley in Southern Oregon. She enjoys hiking, singing, cross country skiing and reading.
Dana is also the co-host of The Kick Some ADHD Podcast
More about ADHD and Clutter:
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How to live with the ADHD Clutter, Disorganization, and Overwhelm from Lynne Edris
How to Handle ADHD Clutter and Overwhelm: ADHD Podcast with Linda Hillger
Clutter, Frustration and Stress with Adult ADD / ADHD – Kerri Richardson
Clutter, Hoarding, OCD and Adult ADD / ADHD with Dr. Roberto Olivardia
The Bullet Journal Method : How to Declutter Your Mind with Pen and Paper – Ryder Carroll
Clear Your Mental Clutter: Idea Capture and Storage – Alan P Brown
Paper, Clutter and Dumping Grounds – Lynne Edris
Clutter, Focus, Money and Self-Esteem with Adult ADHD – Kitti McKay
The Secret Habits of Organized People – Dana Rayburn
ADHD Support Talk Radio is an award winning Podcast for Adults with ADD / ADHD. Co-hosts Tara McGillicuddy and Lynne Edris are joined by Adult ADHD experts and they cover important topics related to Adult ADD / ADHD. Podcast guests include Dr. Edward Hallowell, Dr. Stephanie Sarkis, Dr. Ari Tuckman, Laurie Dupar, Terry Matlen and many more.
Tara McGillicuddy is the Producer, Owner and Co-host of the ADHD Support Talk Radio Podcast. You may contact Tara with general questions or feedback about the podcast.
Lynne Edris is the Co-host of the ADHD Support Talk Radio Podcast. You may contact Lynne with feedback about her episodes or if you are interested in having her interview you as a guest.
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#clutter, #disorganization, #ADHDpodcast
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