ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder that consists of overactivity, impulsivity, and the inability to concentrate. This heightened activity and poor concentration lead to impairments in an individual’s social, educational, and/or occupational functioning. It is known to be the most commonly diagnosed brain disorder in childhood.

ADHD

It also gets difficult for such adults to hold onto a job. Problems with self-esteem and relationships also tend to arise. Moreover, tendencies towards chemical or non-chemical addiction are also exhibited in adults with the symptoms of ADHD. There is a number of contributing factors for the development of ADHD. Studies have suggested that ADHD can be a genetic disorder; however, no specific gene has been identified for ADHD. Apart from genetic reasons, brain damages are also considered as one of the leading cause of the development of ADHD.
Moreover, environmental factors have also been considered as one of the triggering factors in the development of ADHD such as high exposure to toxic chemicals like lead, or alcohol/drug use during pregnancy. ADHD is found to be more common in boys than girls. It is often identified by the parents or teachers during the early years of school among the children due to their inability to pay attention to studies or classroom activities. Several comorbid disorders can also develop along with ADHD including anxiety disorders, conduct disorders, learning disabilities, mood disorders, and substance use disorders.

symptoms of ADHD

It is crucial to understand the symptoms of ADHD in order to identify this disorder. The symptoms of ADHD are characterized into three groups i.e. inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The category of inattention includes lack of persistence, difficulty in sustaining focus and organization problems, the tendency to procrastinate, inability to complete the given tasks given related to schoolwork or other household chores, moving from one uncompleted activity to another, and a reluctance in following the instructions. Moreover, symptoms of forgetting the daily activities, getting easily distracted, and poor focus are also present.

chronic illness

Although ADHD is a chronic illness; however, it is a manageable disorder and can be managed by seeking professional help, which can reduce the symptoms and improves one’s quality of life. A combination of treatment includes medication, psychotherapy, and training along with long-term support groups. The medication works in reducing the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. It improves the ability to focus, learn and work in a better way. It involves stimulants, sometimes non-stimulants, and antidepressants to manage ADHD symptoms. Monitoring the dose of medication is a crucial step in the management of ADHD.
However, the medication can generate even better results when it is used in combination with psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavior therapy. CBT is a genre of psychotherapy that attempts to develop insight into one’s feelings and thoughts that help in improving one’s concentration. It also aims to reduce impulsivity by providing certain skills such as being proactive and mindful, along with meditation and breathing exercises. On the other hand, behavioral therapy targets a person’s behaviors that need to be changed. It enables the individual to monitor his or her own behaviors. Behavior therapy encourages the individual to reward the desired behavior.