top of page

ADHD

What Is ADHD?

ADHD, known as Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a mental illness that can effect people in three different ways. One type of ADHD is characterized by inattentiveness (sometimes this is just called ADD, or Attention deficit disorder). Another type is characterized by hyperactivity and impulsiveness. The third type of ADHD is some combination of the first two.

What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD is a complex mental illness and the effects that it has on people reflects that. The symptoms of ADHD depend on the type of ADHD you have in addition to your age.

​

The symptoms of inattentive behavior for children are:

​

  • difficulty following instructions

  • difficulty focusing on tasks

  • losing things at school and at home

  • forgetting things often 

  • becoming easily distracted or having difficulty listening

  • lacking attention to detail

  • making careless mistakes

  • being disorganized

  • failure to complete homework or other tasks

​

The symptoms of hyperactive behavior for children are:

​

  • being fidgety

  • leaving their seat when they shouldn't

  • running or climbing inappropriately

  • always being on the go

  • blurting out answers

  • having trouble waiting their turn

  • interrupting others

 

ADHD can cause a child's grades to slip and make it harder for them to make meaningful relationships at school or home.

 

More often than not adults struggle with the inattentive aspect of ADHD, called ADD, because hyperactivity usually decreases with age. Adults with ADD usually show more anxiety and learning problems. The symptoms of adult ADD are:

​

  • distractibility

  • disorganization

  • forgetfulness

  • procrastination

  • chronic lateness

  • chronic boredom

  • anxiety

  • depression

  • low self-esteem

  • mood swings

  • employment problems

  • substance abuse or addictions

  • relationship problems

What Are the Risk Factors and Signs of ADHD?

ADHD has a strong genetic component that causes it to be passed down from parents to their children. A person's brain chemistry plays a role in them developing ADHD as well, specifically in regards to an imbalance or deficiency in certain chemicals that regulate the efficiency of controlled behavior by the brain.

How is ADHD Treated?

Receiving a diagnosis is the first step in treating ADHD. Getting diagnosed entails a reference to and evaluation by a mental health professional in addition to behavioral observation. Early identification is key to leading a happy and successful life with ADHD. Medication can also be used to provide the biological support needed for self control. Behavioral therapy can be used in conjunction with medication.

How Can You Cope with ADHD?

There are a number of ways that people can cope with ADHD. To provide internal structure, one can leave themselves notes and reminders. Finding positive outlets for ADHD, such as exercise or another favorite activity, works too. If it is hard to accomplish things, try breaking down assignments into smaller tasks and prioritize what can get done. Taking a break to find yourself when you get caught up in your ADHD is fine too. If it helps, it is ok to use humor around close friends and relatives.

​

Parents/guardians can help their child cope with ADHD by staying informed and involved. Help your child to stay organized and make sure they are receiving the proper support accommodations that they need at school. Know who your child is spending time with and encourage them to participate in social opportunities. Practice cool down strategies and encourage positive coping mechanisms. Keep an open dialogue between you and your child. Be clear what your expectations of them are and keep them informed of the risks of substance abuse and unsafe sexual activity (as people with ADHD can be impulsive).

References
bottom of page