Squashing The Stigma That Surrounds ADHD
What does ADHD stand for? The abbreviation ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults across the globe.
The symptoms of ADHD usually settle with age, but a lot of adults who were diagnosed with the condition at a young age, continue to experience problems such as anxiety and insomnia.
What Is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition which affects people's behavioural traits. People who are diagnosed with this disorder can come across as restless, impulsive and can have trouble staying focused on tasks.
What Causes ADHD?
The cause of ADHD is still unknown, however, the condition has been proven to run in families. Research has confirmed that there are a number of possible differences in the brains of people with ADHD in comparison to those who do not suffer from the condition. The factors below also suggest that they may potentially have a role in ADHD:
Premature birth (before the 37th week of pregnancy)
Alcohol, smoking or drug abuse during pregnancy
A low birth weight
ADHD Fact Or Fiction?
Bad parenting causes ADHD
Fiction: Parents don’t cause ADHD.
ADHD Is Just An Excuse To Be Lazy
Fiction: ADHD is a problem with the chemical dynamics of the brain and it is not something that can be controlled voluntarily.
Children Grow Out Of ADHD
Fiction: Symptoms of ADHD persistently impairs 5 to 86% of people with the disorder.
What Are The Symptoms Of ADHD?
Short Attention Span
Making Careless Mistakes
Losing Things and Being Forgetful
Appearing to be unable to listen to or carry out instructions easily
Constantly changing activity or task
Difficulty organising tasks
Being Easily Distracted
Being unable to sit still
Excessive Movement
Excessive talking
Acting without thinking
Little or no sense of danger
Unable to wait their turn
Fidgeting
What Is The Treatment For ADHD?
ADHD can be treated in various ways including therapy and or medicine - sometimes a combination of both is required for the best result.
Treatment for ADHD must be arranged by a specialise such as a psychiatrist or specialist, sometimes the condition may be monitored by your GP.
Medicines Used To Treat ADHD
There are five primary medicines used to treat ADHD.
Methylphenidate
Dexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine
Atomoxetine
Guanfacine
These medicines are not a permanent fix for ADHD, but they may help increase concentration and make you feel calmer, therefore, becoming less impulsive.
Is There A Test For ADHD?
If you think you or your child may have ADHD you should contact your GP to discuss this matter accordingly. Though the GP cannot confirm the diagnosis, they can refer you to a specialist who will be able to assess you correctly.
There are a number of specialists that you or your child may be referred to including a child or adult psychiatrist, a paediatrician or an occupational therapist with an expertise in ADHD. Unfortunately, there is no simple test to determine whether or not you or your child have ADHD, but your specialist can make an accurate diagnosis after a detailed assessment which may include a physical examination, a series of interviews and or reference checks of your behaviour from friends, family and co-workers.
Remember ADHD doesn’t mean you crave attention and it is a serious condition that must be assessed and monitored regularly. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of ADHD please book in with your local GP practice.