ADHD
Whether you’re feeling distracted or overstimulated, we can all feel hyperactive at times, but when does it cross the line into the territory of being defined as ADHD?
What is ADHD?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is defined as an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. Approximately 1 in 25 individuals have ADHD, so it’s not that uncommon of an illness. Symptoms of ADHD most commonly appear in children ages 3-6 and are often diagnosed around the age of 7. However, ADHD isn’t just a disorder found in children, about 4% of American adults have also been diagnosed with ADHD.
So where does ADHD come from? While it has not been completely confirmed, numerous studies have suggested that it is likely that genes might affect ADHD along with the environment, brain injuries, and even nutrition.
Symptoms
It’s important to identify the definitions of ADHD and understand the symptoms. It is also important to not self-diagnose, so reach out to a medical professional if you have any concerns.
Symptoms that can be defined under the umbrella of ADHD include but are not limited to:
Inattention:
- Difficulty organizing tasks
- Avoiding tasks that require mental effort
- Being easily distracted
- Difficulty listening
- Having difficulty following through with certain and precise instructions
Hyperactivity:
- Constantly in the mood to move around
- Feeling restless
- Fidgeting constantly when expected to be still
- Talking excessively
Impulsivity:
- Running or performing hyper activities at inappropriate times
- Answering questions before they are completely asked
- Difficulty waiting for your turn in a certain scenario
- Interrupting others or interfering with other’s conversations
Treatment/Coping Mechanisms
Like many mental health conditions, there isn’t a definitive cure for ADHD. But there well known and utilized treatment options to help make it more manageable.
Medications are often prescribed by medical professionals, different kinds of therapies, and even combined treatment plans are all ways to help get symptoms under control.
While it may take a while to find a good fit, testing different medications and dosages is a difficult but important step in improving focus and learning while reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity. Therapy can be an important tool in gaining the skillset to handle certain situations and adjust to environments.
If you’re are wondering whether you or someone else is displaying symptoms of ADHD, reach out to a medical professional and continue to do research.
Sources used:
National Institute of Mental Health and the Mayo Clinic
*We are not medical professionals, we are simply here to raise awareness*