Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders of childhood. Previously, it was thought that ADHD was a childhood disorder that disappeared as one got older, however, new research shows that most children diagnosed with ADHD will have some, if not all, of the same ADHD symptoms in adulthood. The key characteristics for both childhood and adult ADHD include difficulty staying focused, challenges paying attention, hyperactivity, distractibility, impulsiveness, restlessness, and the presence of emotional difficulties. These symptoms can make it difficult for children to succeed in school, for adults to be productive at work, and leads to challenges for children and adults alike in all other areas of their lives.

While there is currently no cure for this disorder, treatment can relieve many of the symptoms and make it possible for individuals to lead successful, productive lives. Currently treatments are aimed at reducing symptoms and improving overall functioning. Treatments such as medication, psychotherapy, education, and training are all effective forms of treatment that work best when combined. Although proper diagnosis of ADHD during childhood gives individuals more time to learn about and manage their ADHD, diagnosis in adulthood requires the same education, support, and treatment to manage symptoms.

ADHD statistics

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a very common behavioral disorder that affects about 3% to 10% of school-aged children; an estimated 60% of those children with continue to have symptoms that affect their functioning as adults. ADHD affects boys 3 times as often as girls in childhood, but the ratio seems to even out by adulthood. The cause for this is not known. In a classroom of 30-35 students, it’s likely that at least two children will have ADHD. Prevalence rates for ADHD in adults are not as well known, but it is believed that about 4% to 5% of adults have ADHD.

Causes and risk factors for ADHD

There has been a lot of research dedicated to understanding the causes for ADHD and as of today, there is no known single cause; it appears that a combination of risk factors work together to cause this disorder. The complex array of causes for ADHD include:

Genetic: Heredity is the most common cause of ADHD. It’s clear that ADHD runs in families, which suggests that there is a genetic component for the disorder. Individuals who have a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has ADHD are at a far higher risk for developing the disorder themselves. However, no specific gene has been identified as the cause.

Physical: Current research indicates that the frontal lobe, basal ganglia, caudate nucleus, cerebellum, and many other areas of the brain play a significant role in ADHD as all are involved in the process that regulates behavior. Problems in these areas of the brain can be one of the causes for an individual to be unable to inhibit his or her behavior, have memory problems, issues with self-regulation, motor control, and emotional regulation.

Environmental: Factors such as chaotic home environment may play a small role in the development of ADHD.

Risk factors:

• Having a mother who used alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy
• Lead exposure
• Injury to the brain
• Being a boy

Signs and symptoms of ADHD

While the symptoms tend to be similar in childhood and adult ADHD, they present very differently. Additionally, every individual with ADHD has a unique set of symptoms. The symptoms of ADHD are broken down into different categories and may include some of the following:

Inattentive Symptoms of ADHD: Those who have ADHD have an extremely difficult time paying attention, staying on task, and focusing. Some of the inattentive symptoms associated with ADHD include:

Hyperactivity Symptoms of ADHD: Hyperactivity is probably the most noted symptom of ADHD because individuals with this disorder have a hard time sitting still and tend to always be on the go. Other symptoms include:

Impulsive Symptoms of ADHD: The impulsive symptoms of ADHD often lead to problems with self-control, self-censoring, and other disruptive behaviors.

Emotional difficulties: Many children and adults with ADHD have a hard time managing their feelings. The daily struggles with their disorder’s symptoms causes many individuals to become frustrated, embarrassed, and lose their self-confidence.

Effects of ADHD

Without proper treatment the effects of ADHD can cause serious disruptions in all areas of an individual’s life. However, with proper treatment this disorder can be managed. The long-term effects of ADHD can include:

Types of ADHD treatment 

Our ADHD treatment acknowledges that individuals face multiple pressures in today’s society. We teach our clients that in order to grow as a person treatment must include developing healthy expression of emotions, community involvement, teamwork, openness to alternative viewpoints, and accountability for one’s own actions. Once an initial assessment has been completed, a treatment plan will be developed to provide for each patient’s unique needs. Some of the follow treatment approaches we use to help treat your ADHD may include:

Individual therapy: During these individual sessions individuals can learn how to better monitor their behavior and also process any emotions they may be feeling. Therapists will often use cognitive behavioral therapy to help patients identify their negative thoughts and replace them with more positive ways of viewing the world.

Group therapy: Group sessions focus on coping skills, life skills, medication management, and ADHD education. Not only do groups provide individuals with knowledge about their disorder, they also allow them to connect with others who are struggling with similar issues.

Family involvement: Family therapy can be an essential part of the treatment process. Family members will learn more about their loved one’s ADHD and how they can be more supportive.

In addition to traditional therapeutic methods we offer a number of experiential treatment options.

Helping a loved one get treatment for ADHD

Having a loved one with a mental health disorder can be upsetting and stressful. Not only is it hard for you to see your loved one struggle on a daily basis, but your life is being affected as well. Treatments for mental illnesses like ADHD are highly effective, however many individuals choose to not seek help. This is why it is important for friends and family members to step in and help their loved one realize that they do indeed need help. Here are some general signs to look for that indicate your loved one needs help:

• Angry outbursts and bad tempers
• Problems taking care of themselves
• Engaging in risky behaviors, including substance abuse
• Problems thinking, such as become disoriented or seeing/hearing things that aren’t really there
• Intense feelings of anxiety
• Problems interacting with others, withdrawn from others
• Inability to work or go to school

If you notice these behaviors in your loved one it is important that you make the time to talk to your loved one and encourage them to seek the treatment they need. Here are some things to keep in mind when approaching them:

• Let them know that you need to have an important conversation with them
• Pick an appropriate time and place
• Approach them with empathy
• Be prepared for them to be upset and try not to get defensive
• Use I statements
• Facilitate the process by finding a professional and scheduling an appointment

In addition to talking to your loved one about seeking treatment it is also important to remember that supporting them is a long-term process. Make sure to take the time to check in with them on a regular basis to see how treatment is going and if there is anything you can do to help.