Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized as an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity, impulsivity that affects daily functioning or development (NIH, 2023). ADHD is one of the most common mental health conditions affecting roughly 8 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults (Healthline, 2023).
October is ADHD Awareness Month. The goal of this movement is to expose common misconceptions surrounding the ADHD diagnosis, support those that have received the diagnosis, and shed light on shared experiences in the ADHD community. |
|
Symptoms for ADHD typically present in early childhood and sometimes can be difficult to differentiate between active behavior that is common for most children. That is why diagnosis for ADHD typically does not occur until age 5 or older (CHADD, 2020). Symptoms for ADHD can be broken down into two different behavioral categories: Inattentiveness, where there is difficulty concentrating or focusing, and hyperactivity/impulsiveness (NIH, 2023).
Boys are three times more likely to get diagnosed with ADHD than girls. Research suggests that girls are underdiagnosed compared to their male counterparts because they typically report fewer hyperactive/impulsive symptoms and have less disruptive behavior (BMC Psychiatry, 2013). |
There is not one single causative factor for ADHD. It is a complex disorder that results from the combination of genetics and environment. Known risk factors include:
| • | Genetics |
| • | Exposure to substances in utero (maternal drug, alcohol, smoking) |
| • | Premature birth |
| • | Illness and injury (meningitis) |
| • | Exposure to toxins (lead) (CHADD, 2020) |
|
There is not a one-size-fits-all treatment modality for ADHD, and there is no cure. Treatment is the combination of medical, behavioral, psychological and educational treatments, depending on the patients needs (CHADD, 2020). This approach could include anything from medication, counseling, classroom interventions, behavioral therapy, skills training and parental training (NIH, 2023).
Other treatment modalities that have been shown to improve and maintain ADHD symptoms include lifestyle modifications and routines, such as:
| • | Getting adequate sleep |
| • | Nutritious foods |
| • | Physical activity |
| • | Getting and staying organized |
| • | Limiting noise - turn off TV, limit screen time |
| • | Be clear and specific when giving directions (CDC, 2023). |
|
ADHD is a nondiscriminatory condition that affects people from all walks of life. This condition creates challenges with academics, relationships and work. Through awareness to ADHD we promote early diagnosis, proper treatment and access to support (Healthline, 2023). Awareness increases education surrounding ADHD and therefore supports those with ADHD to live full and engaging lives. |
| • | BMC Psychiatry (2013). ADHD in girls and boys-gender differences in co-existing symptoms and executive function measures. doi: 10.1186/1471-244X-13-298
|
| • | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Treatment of ADHD. Retrieved September 28, 2023.
|
| • | Children and Adults with ADHD (CHADD) (2020). ADHD Quick Facts About ADHD. Retrieved on September 26, 2023.
|
| • | Healthline (2023). What is ADHD Awareness Month? Retrieved September 26, 2023.
|
| • | National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), (2023). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Retrieved September 26, 2023. |
|
|
|
|
|
