Life can seem challenging at times for everyone. Those with ADHD may experience symptoms that make them even more complex than the average person. ADHD can impact your home, work, and personal environment. ADHD starts in childhood but can continue to affect you as an adult. If you are experiencing hyperactivity, impulse control, or trouble focusing, please discuss your symptoms with our qualified clinicians.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect a person’s attention, impulsivity, memory, how they manage their energy and other cognitive functions. While it is often diagnosed in childhood, ADHD can affect people well into adulthood. It is estimated that 11 percent of children have ADHD in the United States. In adults, it is estimated at 4.4 percent. Less than 20% of adults with ADHD are not aware they have it and will remain undiagnosed and untreated. ADHD affects a range of cognitive functions, including one’s ability to concentrate and one’s memory.
ADHD Symptoms in Adolescents
Diagnosing ADHD in adolescence can be more complex, and this is because teens are very different in terms of development from adults and may not share similar symptoms. Parents and teachers should look for the following if they suspect ADHD. Their home and school environment should be observed.
Inattentive symptoms:
Making mistakes with schoolwork
Detached from interaction with adults and friends
Avoiding tasks that require focus and concentration
Decline in grades
Difficulty keeping track of things
Keeping a clean and organized room
Difficulty completing chores
Forgetfulness
Hyperactive impulsivity symptoms
Difficulty staying still in class
Talkative
Fidgeting behavior
Frequently interrupting
Difficulty keeping track of things
Difficulty completing chores
Forgetfulness
Signs And Symptoms in Adults
ADHD is diagnosed in adults because symptoms were not identified in childhood. Diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be complex because other conditions, such as anxiety or mood disorders, cause specific symptoms of ADHD.
Symptoms of Inattention:
Inability to focus
Forgetful
Misplaced items frequently
Poor executive function
Easily distracted
Inability to focus at school or work
Procrastination
Making mistakes
Missing key details
Symptoms of Hyperactive-Impulsivity
Inability to sit still for long periods
Difficulty relaxing
Racing thoughts
Interruptive, talkative
Restlessness
Fidelity
Impulsive behaviors
Causes and Risk Factors
The precise cause of ADHD isn’t entirely understood, but several factors are believed to play a role:
Genetic Links:
ADHD seems to have a strong genetic component. There are multiple genes, particularly those connected to the neurotransmitter dopamine, that appear linked to the disorder. While no single gene is a definitive predictor of ADHD, a combination of genes might make some individuals more prone to it. Studies involving identical twins and adopted children have shown a higher occurrence of ADHD among identical twins, indicating a significant genetic factor.
Environmental Influences
The environment, especially during prenatal development and early childhood, can significantly influence the likelihood of developing ADHD. Prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, or illegal drugs may increase the risk. Children who encounter high levels of lead from sources like old paint or plumbing, or other environmental pollutants in their early years, might be more prone to ADHD. Early-life experiences of trauma, abuse, or extreme neglect can also contribute to the development of ADHD symptoms.
Brain Structure and Function
Advances in neuroimaging have revealed variations in the size and activity of certain brain areas in individuals with ADHD. For instance, the prefrontal cortex, crucial for executive functions such as focus, decision-making, and impulse control, may be smaller or less active in those with ADHD. Additionally, the brain’s communication networks, including those related to dopamine, may operate differently in individuals with this condition.
How Is ADHD Treated
There is no cure for ADHD however, medications, therapy, and life changes can reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of life.
Studies have shown that over 80 % of individuals have reduced symptoms with medications.
Medication options Include
Stimulant therapy
Non-stimulant therapy
Medication Management
Stimulant and non-stimulant therapy are effective treatments for ADHD. These drugs help improve the availability of certain chemicals in the brain by increasing dopamine levels. Dopamine allows us to regulate emotional responses and take action to receive specific rewards. As a result, this improves activity and communication in your brain and signals for specific tasks. It is vital to discuss with your mental health provider to determine the right treatment plan.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy is effective in children to improve destructive behaviors and replace them with positive behaviors. Adults can benefit from improving coping strategies, organization skills, and impulsiveness.
psychoeducation
organization and planning
navigation of distractions
development of adaptive thinking skills
reduction of procrastination behaviors.
Lifestyle Changes
Exercise regularly 3-4 times weekly
Healthy sleep routine
Maintaining routine check-up
Avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol
and recreational substances.
Frequently asked questions
Do you prescribe control substances for ADHD?
Due to the DEA guidelines, we cannot prescribe controlled substances in New Mexico and IOWA due to telehealth policies. Other Option Includes Non-stimulant medications which can be equally effective.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
Diagnosis should be made by a professional with training in ADHD or mental disorders. Physical examinations are given to exclude other medical conditions that can affect focus and concentration. Psychological tests can rule out conditions such as specific learning disabilities, anxiety, or affective disorders. Prior to your appointment, you will complete a questionnaire to review your symptoms.
