What is ADHD?
ADHD, also called attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a behavior disorder that is characterized by a combination of inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive behavior. It is one of the most common mental disorders affecting an estimation of 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults, it is most commonly diagnosed in early childhood. ADHD is considered a chronic and debilitating disorder that impacts a person's academic and social life, as well as their daily functioning if it is not managed. At a young age, children with ADHD may often get into trouble for disruptive behaviors. They may act up in class, talk a lot, or have problems with schoolwork.
ADHD presents itself differently in girls and boys, this can cause many young girls to go their whole lives without being diagnosed. The disorder also presents itself differently in adults.
There are three main types of ADHD:
Predominantly inattentive. Characterized predominantly by inattention and lack of focus without hyperactivity.
Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive. Characterized by hyperactivity and impulsivity without inattention. This is the least common type of ADHD.
Combination. Characterized by impulsivity and hyperactivity along with inattention. This is the most common type of ADHD
Some symptoms of ADHD include:
Inattention:
Forgetfulness
Lack of attention to details
Carless mistakes
Zoning out
Often loses things
Easily distracted
Short attention span
Poor organizational & study skills
Hyperactivity & Impulsivity:
Fidgeting
Difficulty remaining seated
Always “on the go” (seems to be in constant motion as if driven by a motor)
Talkative (excessive talking)
Often interrupts others
Difficulty waiting for their turn
Often blurts out an answer (can’t wait to speak and/or finish people’s sentences)
Difficulty engaging in quiet activities
Often loses or forgets items
Inability to remain focused on one task (shifting from task to task without completing the previous task)
The combined type fits the criteria of both the inattentive and hyperactive & impulsive types.
What causes ADHD?
Although ADHD is one of the most researched areas in mental health, the exact cause of the mental disorder remains unknown. However, there have been findings that could link potential causes.
ADHD could potentially be genetic, there has been growing evidence that suggests that ADHD is a hereditary disorder and may be linked to several genes and brain chemical imbalances, such as dopamine.
Other than genetic factors, a few non-genetic factors, such as low birth weight, alcohol and drug abuse during pregnancy, brain injury, exposure to environmental risks (lead), extreme stress during pregnancy, and premature birth have also been linked to the mental disorder.
Some complications that come with ADHD include:
Poor school/work performance
Alcohol or other substance misuse
Poor organization and time management
Problem with following instructions
Impulsive and risk-taking behavior, leading to legal complications
Poor stress management
Problems with focusing & completing tasks
Unemployment
Unstable relationships
Financial problems
Although there are complications with ADHD, if managed it can become a "superpower" for some. It may cause an increase in:
imagination and creativity
compassion
sense of humor
perseverance and determination
unique memory and observations
unique problem solving
multitasking
hyperfocus
energy
accepting of differences
spontaneity and courage
conversational skills
Treatments:
Although there is no cure for ADHD, it can be managed through support, behavioral therapy, or medication. The medication that is often prescribed to individuals with ADHD is a psychostimulant. These medications balance the chemicals in the brain and stimulate the brain to focus and causing major symptoms of ADHD to become less apparent.
Some of the medications include
Methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin, Concerta)
Amphetamine (Adderall)
Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Atomoxetine (Strattera)
These medications may cause side effects, some of which include:
Insomnia, decreased appetite, peaches, jitteriness, increased hyperactive/impulsive behaviors for a short period of time after stimulants wear off, and stomach aches.
Sources:
Comentarios