ADHD

What is ADHD? Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) stands out

as one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. It
is frequently diagnosed early in life, but adults can also receive a diagnosis.
This flexibility exists because ADHD isn’t a straightforward condition; it
exists in various shades of complexity.

When people think of adhd, they think of hyperactive. A child in constant

motion, seemingly like a ticking bomb. While the imagine is not entirely
correct, it doesn’t picture the full essence of ADHD. As previously stated,
ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. And symptoms
might vary across age groups and gender.

number of children diagnosed with

ADHD/ millions
National Survey of
2011 6.4 Children’s Health
(NSCH), telephone
survey data, information
2007 5.5 collected every 4 years
for children ages 3-17

2003 4.4

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

number of children diagnosed with ADHD/ millions

According to data collected from 2016 - 2019 from national survey of parents
for children with adhd, it was found out that boys are 7% more likely to be
diagnosed with adhd than girls. Boys tend to have the ‘H’ part of ADHD,
hyperactivity, leading to more noticeable symptoms and probability that
their parents send them to get checked. While girls usually experience more
internal challenges such as difficulty in maintaining to focus.
Despite those general terms, attention deficiency and hyperactivity, ADHD
possesses a lot more than what meets the eye. For example, hyperactivity
has a co-existing symptom: impulsiveness. Main signs of these symptoms
may include:

1. Excessive talking.

2. Excessive physical movement.

3. Acting without thinking.

4. Little to no sense of danger.

Following the same pattern, the same can be said about ‘attention
deficiency’. Co-existing symptoms may include:

1. Having a short attention span and being easily distracted.

2. Making careless mistakes.

3. Unable to stick to time consuming tasks and constantly changing tasks.

A couple of the symptoms may sound very ordinary and common. This leads
to a considerable number of people are quick to self-diagnose. I deem that a
problem many possess. Symptoms aren’t considered worrisome unless they
start to affect your day-to-day life. When your symptoms start affecting your
social interactions, family relationships, romantic partnerships, and
academic pursuits. When these symptoms start controlling your life and how
the way things are progressing, this is when this becomes a matter of
concern. It’s important to note that while certain symptoms may overlap
with other conditions, a medical diagnosis should be left in the capable
hands of psychologists who evaluate an array of symptoms for a conclusive
diagnosis.
As mentioned above, (ADHD) is a complex condition that affects individuals
differently. While there is no effective cure for ADHD, there are effective
treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality
of life for patients who suffer from it.
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is medication. Stimulant
medications, such as methylphenidate (Methylin) and amphetamine, are
commonly prescribed to help improve focus and concentration, reduce
impulsivity, and improve emotional regulation. Non-stimulant medications,
such as atomoxetine and guanfacine, may also be an option for some
individuals. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine
which medication is best suited to your needs and to monitor its
effectiveness.
In addition to medication, therapy can be very effective in managing ADHD
symptoms. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective
types of therapy for ADHD. It teaches individuals how to better manage their
emotions and cope with stress, improve organization and time management
skills, and control impulsive behaviours.

CBT is a form of therapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts,

feelings, and behaviors. It encourages teens to change negative thinking
patterns, identify and challenge irrational beliefs, and develop more effective
problem-solving strategies. This approach can help teens learn better coping
skills, improve their self-esteem, and develop more positive relationships
with others.
When working with teenagers, therapists may use several specific CBT
techniques, such as:

1. Exposure therapy: a technique used to help teens overcome fears or

phobias by exposing them to the situation or object that triggers their
anxiety.
2. Cognitive restructuring: a process that helps teens identify and challenge
negative thinking patterns, such as all-or-nothing thinking or negative
self-talk.

3. Goal setting: a process that involves defining specific, achievable goals

and developing a plan to reach them, which can help teens feel more
motivated and empowered.

CBT with teenagers is typically offered in the context of individual therapy

sessions; however, it can also be used in family therapy or group therapy
settings. The benefits of CBT may not be immediate, but with persistence
and practice, teenagers can learn new coping skills and develop healthier
thought processes.
It is important to consider that ADHD treatment often requires a
multifaceted approach that includes medication, therapy, and lifestyle
changes. It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to develop a
treatment plan that works best for you. With effective treatment, individuals
with ADHD can achieve their full potential, build meaningful relationships,
and lead fulfilling lives.