What is ADHD?
What is ADHD
ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active. ADHD may make you think of kids who have trouble paying attention or who are hyperactive or impulsive. Adults can have ADHD, too. About 4% to 5% of U.S. adults have it. But few adults get diagnosed or treated for it.
Symptoms
- Impulsiveness
- Disorganization and problems prioritizing
- Poor time management skills
- Problems focusing on a task
- Trouble multitasking
- Excessive activity or restlessness
- Poor planning
- Low frustration tolerance
- Frequent mood swings
- Problems following through and completing tasks
- Hot temper
- Trouble coping with stress
Some challenges people with ADHD may face are anxiety, depression, mood swings, poor organization skills, impulsiveness, procrastination, and low motivation.
How is ADHD treated?
Treatment plans for ADHD may include medication and/or therapy. People with ADHD have usually prescribed stimulant medications that can improve ADHD symptoms. Though, medications may not be for everyone. Cognitive and behavioral therapy is a common type of talk therapy that may help with symptoms. Also, life coaching can help lower anxiety and stress and can improve relationships, and help you stay organized.
What causes ADHD?
It’s not entirely clear, but most research suggests these main factors:
- Genes and heredity. ADHD frequently runs in families. A child with ADHD has a 1 in 4 chance of having a parent with ADHD. It’s also likely that another close family member, such as a sibling, will also have ADHD. Sometimes, ADHD is diagnosed in a parent at the same time it is diagnosed in the child.
- Significant head injuries may cause ADHD in some cases.
- Prematurity increases the risk of developing ADHD.
If you believe you have ADHD and would like to make an appointment, call A Ray of Hope: Great Lakes Institute of Neurology and Psychiatry, at 847-268-3908 or make an appointment online today, for expert, multidisciplinary treatment for ADHD.