ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that affects how people focus, control their energy, and manage their impulses. It’s common in children and can last into adulthood. Read on to learn what ADHD is, its signs, causes, and how it can be managed.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD symptoms may look different for everyone, but here are the most common signs:
- Trouble Focusing: People with ADHD may find it hard to pay attention for long periods. They might lose track of tasks, forget things, or seem like they aren’t listening.
- Hyperactivity: This includes constant fidgeting, moving around when it’s not appropriate, or being unable to stay seated. Hyperactive individuals may seem like they have an endless supply of energy.
- Impulsivity: Acting without thinking is a major sign. This could mean interrupting others, blurting out answers, or finding it hard to wait for their turn.
These symptoms can make it hard for people with ADHD to focus in school, complete tasks, or maintain friendships.
Types of ADHD
ADHD is divided into three main types, based on the symptoms a person has. Here’s a simple explanation of each:
- Inattentive Type
This type is mostly related to focus and staying organized. People with this type of ADHD might:- Forget things easily, like homework or chores.
- Have trouble paying attention to details.
- Find it hard to follow instructions or finish tasks.
- Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
This type is about having lots of energy and impulsivity. People with this type might:- Fidget or move around a lot, even when it’s not the right time.
- Find it hard to stay seated or wait their turn.
- Talk a lot or interrupt others when they’re speaking.
- Combined Type
This is the most common type of ADHD. A person with Combined Type ADHD has symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types. For example, they might have trouble focusing in class and also find it hard to sit still.
Each type of ADHD can look different in different people, but understanding the type can help find the best ways to support and treat them.
What Factors Lead to ADHD?
ADHD isn’t due to one cause. Experts believe it happens due to a mix of factors:
- Genetics: ADHD often runs in families, so if a parent has ADHD, their child is more likely to have it too.
- Brain Differences: Studies show that people with ADHD may have differences in the way certain parts of their brain work.
- Environment: Exposure to certain toxins during pregnancy or early childhood, such as lead, might increase the risk of ADHD.
Having ADHD doesn’t mean you’re less intelligent or less capable; it simply means your brain works differently.
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
At Aloe Mind, ADHD assessments starts with clinical intake. This session is where the clinical psychologist learns about your history, symptoms, and any struggles you’re facing. Based on this information, they’ll recommend whether you need a formal assessment.
Should assessment is recommended, the assessment session includes clinical interviews and psychological tests to evaluate ADHD symptoms. The length depends on the tests chosen by the psychologist, and fees vary based on the tools used.
After the assessment, it takes 2–3 weeks for the psychologist to analyze the results and provide a diagnosis. You’ll then have a post-assessment briefing to review the findings and receive a report of the results.
How is ADHD Treated?
While there’s no specific cure for ADHD, there are many ways to manage it and help people thrive. Common treatments include:
- Therapy:
- Talk therapy can help individuals with new skills to manage distractions, develop good habits, and control impulses. For minor, working with parent can helps parent understand how to support their child with ADHD more effectively.
- Medication:
- Some medicines can help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. These include stimulant and non-stimulant medications, which should only be taken under a pyschiatrist’s guidance.
- School or Workplace Support:
- In schools or workplaces, support can make a big difference for people with ADHD. Teachers or supervisors can help by allowing extra time to complete assignments or tasks, providing short movement breaks to help with focus and energy or using tools like visual charts, reminders, or checklists to keep tasks organized and on track.
Living with ADHD
Having ADHD might mean facing extra challenges. With the right support, they can achieve their goals and shine in their own way. If you or someone you know might have ADHD, it’s important to talk to a professional. Getting help early makes a big difference!
If an ADHD diagnosis or help with your ADHD symptoms is something you’re looking for, go ahead and book a session with our clinical psychologist!
Book a session on our website, or Whatsapp us at +60 17-803 8384!