Clarity Mental Health
If you think ADHD is starting to affect your daily activities and quality of life, the first place to start is talking to a healthcare or behavioral professional.
ADHD (also known as ADD) stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and is characterized by above-normal levels of hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. Those with ADHD often have difficulty focusing and completing a single task or sitting still for extended periods of time.
What causes ADHD is still unclear. It is believed that genetics and brain chemistry play a large role and studies indicate differences in the brain structure in those with ADHD. The portion of the brain that controls impulses, decision-making, speech, and muscle control appears to be less in those with ADHD.
In children, ADHD is typically associated with uncontrollable energy and, unfortunately, can lead to problems at school. ADHD symptoms are sometimes confused with typical childlike behaviors and a professional should be consulted before labeling a child and making an unprofessional diagnosis.
ADHD also occurs in adults. About 60% of children diagnosed with ADHD will continue to exhibit symptoms into adulthood. In adults, symptoms of ADHD may look a little different from those in children, mostly due to different circumstances but they still share many similarities.
Symptoms of ADHD often include:
If not identified and addressed early, children with ADHD can have trouble succeeding in school and suffer negative consequences from getting in trouble too often. Likewise, adults who struggle with untreated or undiagnosed ADHD, often have difficulty keeping jobs, relationships, and managing other responsibilities that come with adulthood.
Treatment for ADHD usually involves psychotherapy, medication, or both. Therapy often includes talk therapy as well as behavior therapies to identify issues and find ways to manage hyperactivity and channel it elsewhere if possible.
Medication can be used to influence the brain in ways that help an individual control impulses and actions. Lifestyle and healthy living practices such as exercise, a balanced diet, meditation, sleep and limiting screen time have also been shown to help individuals manage the symptoms of ADHD.
Untreated ADHD can have a serious impact on an individual’s life as well as the lives of those around them. Recognizing ADHD and learning to manage the symptoms can minimize its effects on one’s school, work, and relationships. It is also not uncommon for some to identify the positive benefits to certain controlled ADHD traits and use them to their advantage. Many individuals with ADHD have successful and fulfilling lives.
If you're in the Castle Rock, Pueblo, or Denver Metro area and think you or your child may have ADD/ADHD - we can help! Schedule an in-office or telehealth appointment online today.