ADHD Explained
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is an executive function disorder that affects an individual’s cognitive behaviors including memory, planning, and impulse control. Many people who have ADHD are intelligent, spontaneous, creative, and compassionate. ADHD is a neurodevelopment condition resulting from a person’s brain developing differently during gestation and early childhood. Therefore, people with ADHD are neurodivergent as their brains function differently in one or more ways than is considered standard or typical. ADHD is thought to be genetic and many people with this diagnosis have a relative or a parent who is neurodiverse. Many individuals do not realize that they have this disorder until later in life as symptoms are expressed on a spectrum ranging from mild to severe. According to the The American Psychiatric Association, there are three presentations of ADHD.
Inattentive
Has problems staying focused
Has problems organizing
Often loses things needed for tasks or daily life, such as school papers, books, keys, wallet, cell phone and eyeglasses.
Hyperactive/Impulsive
Runs about or climbs where it is inappropriate.
Always “on the go,” as if driven by a motor.
Talks too much.
Blurts out an answer before a question has been finished
Immediate gratification is everything
Combined
A combination of the above symptoms.
Dopamine
Individuals with ADHD have a higher rate of co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, substance abuse, depression, and eating disorders. Studies have shown that individuals with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine. Dopamine allows us to regulate emotional responses and take action to achieve specific rewards. It’s responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. Therefore, many individuals with untreated ADHD turn to risky behaviors such as substance abuse to boost their dopamine levels.
How Therapy Can Help
Working with a therapist can be helpful for managing ADHD symptoms and developing coping skills. Within the therapeutic relationship the client can learn organizational skills, time management, and emotional regulation.