What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a common mental health condition that affects children and adults. It’s caused by a combination of genetic and non-genetic factors that impact the brain’s activity.

If you or your child has ADHD, treatment can help manage symptoms and restore functioning at home and at school. It involves medication, behavioral therapy and counseling.

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that usually begins in childhood. However, it may occur in adults.

The signs and symptoms of ADHD vary from person to person. They can include a variety of issues, such as poor time management, forgetfulness, and organizational difficulties.

People with ADHD often struggle with their physical and mental health, and they may run into problems at work, with family members, and in the community. They may also have problems coping with stress and anger.

This is because they are unable to control their impulses. They may blurt out answers to questions or comments they shouldn’t have, run into the street without looking, grab a toy from another child, or hit when they get upset.

In addition to impulsivity, children with ADHD are also hyperactive and irritable. They are always on the go, and they can’t sit still for long.

Children with ADHD need a strong sense of order and routine. They need clear rules and expectations, and they need to be rewarded for good behavior. They should have a schedule that they can follow, from school and other activities to bedtime and eating.

Types of ADHD

If you have ADHD, it can feel like you’re a different person from the rest of the world. It’s not uncommon to have other people question why you have such a hard time following through on tasks or why you’re constantly forgetful.

If these behaviors are making your life difficult, it’s important to get diagnosed. It can give you the chance to find a treatment plan that works for you.

The type of ADHD you have may impact your treatment options. There are three main types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.

Predominantly inattentive ADHD is one of the most common types of ADHD. This form of the disorder is characterized by problems with attention and is more commonly seen in girls than boys.

People with this form of ADHD struggle to pay attention to things that are not interesting and often find themselves impulsively doing something they shouldn’t. They also tend to lose track of their daily responsibilities, such as keeping up with bills and appointments.

Causes of ADHD

While no one knows exactly what causes ADHD, a number of factors are thought to be associated with its development. They include genetics, the environment and problems with the brain during key moments of development.

Some children are born with the disorder, while others develop it later in life. It can also occur in children who are exposed to certain environmental toxins, or whose mothers used drugs during pregnancy.

Researchers have found that the development of certain areas of the brain, such as the frontal lobes, is delayed in kids with ADHD. The reason for this may be a problem with the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline, which are needed to transmit information between nerve cells.

This can result in a short attention span and other symptoms of ADHD, such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can also lead to coordination problems, like not being able to walk or dance.

When your child has a lot of these symptoms, they are likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. But it’s important to understand that your child may have a different disorder or medical condition than ADHD, and you should talk with your doctor about possible treatment options.

How is ADHD Diagnosed?

Diagnosing ADHD requires a thorough evaluation and a medical history. A healthcare provider may use the guidelines in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5), to help determine whether symptoms meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis.

To be diagnosed, an individual must exhibit at least six persistent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that are noticeable for more than 6 months. The individual must also have trouble functioning in different settings, such as home, school or work.

Children may be evaluated for ADHD by a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, child therapist or other health professional. A specialist can help determine the diagnosis by reviewing your medical history and asking about your current symptoms.

Parents, teachers and other adults who know your child well can also provide useful information to a healthcare provider. They can help a healthcare provider determine whether the symptoms are caused by another condition, such as a learning disorder or anxiety.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is important, as many people with ADHD struggle to manage their condition on their own. A healthcare provider can help you or your child find resources, support groups and treatment options.

Treatsments for ADHD

ADHD can be treated with medication, psychosocial therapy, and behavioral measures. The goal of treatment is to help patients manage their symptoms so that they can lead more independent, productive lives.

Adults with ADHD often have comorbid problems such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and personality disorders. A recent study of a large sample of adults with ADHD demonstrated that up to 50% of these patients also have a substance use problem (Sobanski 2006).

Stimulant medications are the most common type of medication used for treating ADHD in children and adults. They work by boosting the amounts of brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine in different parts of the brain.

Some of the most common stimulants are methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are a tablet, capsule, liquid, or oral disintegrating tablet (brand names: Concerta, Focalin, Metadate, Methylin, Ritalin).

Amphetamines are an injection and are available in tablets, capsules, and a special patch (brand name Daytrana). These medications are used to control hyperactivity and impulsiveness in adults with ADHD.

Some people with ADHD find that behavioral therapies, such as group therapy and coaching, can improve their condition. Behavioral therapy helps patients develop more structured time at home, set goals and rules, and focus on positive attention and behaviors.

ADHD in Adults

ADHD affects a person’s ability to focus on tasks and concentrate. It also can cause problems with social relationships and workplace productivity. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis so that treatment can be tailored to the individual’s needs.

A diagnosis of adult ADHD is made after a doctor or mental health professional performs a comprehensive evaluation that includes a description of symptoms from the patient, family and caregivers; completion of scales and questionnaires; and a review of the patient’s psychiatric and medical history. The assessment can be conducted by a psychiatric professional or primary care physician.

The diagnosis is based on criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). It breaks down ADHD into 3 subtypes: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive and combined.

People with ADHD are “neurodivergent,” which means their brains developed differently from those of people without the disorder. These differences may be linked to genetics, although other factors have also been suspected, including low birth weight, premature birth and toxins (such as alcohol, nicotine, lead or drugs) during pregnancy.

In addition, adults with ADHD are more likely to have relationship problems, work issues, and substance abuse and criminal activity compared to those who don’t have the disorder. They’re also at increased risk for injury, traffic accidents and motor vehicle citations, according to the APA.

ADHD Medication

A range of medicines can help manage symptoms of ADHD in children and adults. These include stimulant and nonstimulant medications, which may be given together or separately.

Stimulants are the most popular medications for treating ADHD in children and adults, as they work fast to improve symptoms of ADHD. They boost levels of key neurotransmitters in the brain, including norepinephrine and dopamine.

Many of these medicines are available in a range of forms, including tablets and oral solutions. Your doctor or specialist will recommend the right form of medication for you based on your age, symptoms and other medical conditions.

Your doctor will also explain what to expect from the ADHD medicine. It’s important to understand that the medicine works best if it’s carefully monitored and personalized to your individual needs.

It’s common for people to experience side effects when taking ADHD medications. These can include problems with sleep, appetite and mood.

There’s also a risk of suicidal thoughts or feelings when using some antidepressants. This is why the FDA advises people to talk with their doctor before starting any new medication, including antidepressants.

A range of other treatments can be used to help control the symptoms of ADHD in children and adults, including psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and education and knowledge. There are also support groups for people with ADHD.

Strengthen the Cerebellum to Improve ADHD Symptoms

Dr. John Ratey joins Ned to share the latest research on how underdeveloped cerebellums affect executive functions like regulating emotions and staying focused. They discuss Dr. Jeremy Schmahmann’s Dysmetria of Thought theory, and share specific ways those with ADHD can build up this part of their brain.

Learn more about Dr. John Ratey HERE.

This Episode is sponsored by Landmark College in Putney, Vermont. It’s the college of choice for students who learn differently. Learn more at g

This Classic Episode originally aired in September 2020

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