Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. A person with ADHD has differences in brain development and brain activity that affect attention, the ability to sit still and self-control. Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child's circumstances change, such as when they start school. Most cases are diagnosed when children are under 12 years old, but sometimes it's diagnosed later in childhood. Sometimes ADHD was not recognized when someone was a child, and they are diagnosed later as an adult.

 

ADHD is a long-term (chronic) brain condition that causes executive dysfunction, which means it disrupts a person’s ability to manage their own emotions, thoughts and actions. ADHD makes it difficult for people to:

1) Manage their behavior

2) Pay attention

3) Control over activity

4) Regulate their mood

5) Stay organized

6) Concentrate

7) Follow directions

8) Sit still

Symptoms in Adults

Some people with ADHD have fewer symptoms as they age, but some adults continue to have major symptoms that interfere with daily functioning

In adults, the main features of ADHD may include difficulty paying attention, impulsiveness and restlessness. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Many adults with ADHD aren't aware they have it — they just know that everyday tasks can be a challenge

Adults with ADHD may find it difficult to focus and prioritize, leading to missed deadlines and forgotten meetings or social plans

The inability to control impulses can range from impatience waiting in line or driving in traffic to mood swings and outbursts of anger

Other symptom

1) Impulsiveness

2) Disorganization and problems prioritizing

3) Poor time management skills

4) Problems focusing on a task

5) Trouble multitasking

6) Excessive activity or restlessness

7) Poor planning

8) Low frustration tolerance

9) Frequent mood swings

10) Problems following through and completing tasks

11) Hot temper

12) Trouble coping with stress

Treatments and Therapies

1) Medications:  ADHD medications reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity and improve their ability to focus, work, and learn. Sometimes several different medications or dosages must be tried before finding the right one that works for a particular person.

2) Stimulants: The most common type of medication used for treating ADHD is called a “stimulant.” Although it may seem unusual to treat ADHD with a medication that is considered a stimulant, it works by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which play essential roles in thinking and attention.

3) Behavioral therapy: It is a type of psychotherapy that aims to help a person change their behavior. It might involve practical assistance, such as help organizing tasks or completing schoolwork, or working through emotionally difficult events.

4) Cognitive behavioral therapy:  It helps a person learn how to be aware and accepting of one’s own thoughts and feelings to improve focus and concentration. The therapist also encourages the person with ADHD to adjust to the life changes that come with treatment, such as thinking before acting, or resisting the urge to take unnecessary risks.