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ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a complex disorder that can manifest in both children and adults. It's characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The disorder is clinically defined, with inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity being its main symptom domains.
Someone with ADHD may struggle to focus on their work or school, easily become distracted, and forget tasks and deadlines. They may also run late to appointments, work, and school. And for someone with ADHD, "easy" tasks, like cleaning the kitchen, may take longer as their brains become distracted and disinterested.
Executive dysfunction, distraction, and forgetfulness can lead to shame, anxiety, and depression in those with ADHD. Though ADHD is a common disorder, it's also highly treatable.
The symptoms of ADHD differ from "normal" inattention and executive dysfunction because they affect and impair your daily ability to function. Each symptom is more severe and frequent than the occasional "brain fart" or brain fog. Men usually have symptoms of hyperactivity, while women primarily present inattention symptoms.
See some of ADHD's symptoms below.
Symptoms of ADHD commonly begin between 3-6 years old and continue into adulthood. Your symptoms can also change as you get older. For example, as a kid, you may have struggled more with hyperactivity, then inattention as you got older.
Scientists don't yet know the cause of ADHD, but genetics and environmental factors seem like key contributors. They know it's more common in men and that women usually have primary inattention symptoms, while men have more hyperactive symptoms.
Having ADHD also means you're more likely to have a co-occurring disorder like anxiety, depression, dyslexia, and a substance use disorder.
A primary care doctor usually makes the diagnosis during childhood. However, some symptoms of ADHD, like inattention, can delay the diagnosis. Teachers, parents, and doctors may assume a child needs to focus better and take their schoolwork seriously until other symptoms appear.
To receive a diagnosis, your primary doctor or a psychologist evaluates your symptoms and their severity. The symptoms must also be chronic and have a lasting effect on your day-to-day life. Providers then rule out other conditions, like sleep disorders, stress, depression, and anxiety, which can cause similar symptoms. If you get diagnosed, you'll then start treatment for ADHD.
Yes, some rehabs will treat primary ADHD. Many rehab centers also treat co-occurring mental health disorders like ADHD alongside substance use disorders. You can attend several levels of treatment for ADHD. These include:
In each level of care, you'll likely receive 1-1 therapy with a therapist and participate in group therapy. The exact type of therapies used will vary based on your symptoms, medical history, age, and more. But you can expect to engage in one or more types of evidence-based therapy throughout your treatment.
Children with ADHD typically begin family therapy to address the inter-family issues and frustrations brought about by their diagnosis. If you have a child with ADHD, their doctor may also suggest couples therapy for you and your spouse, stress-management therapy, and skills training.
Suppose you've been clinically diagnosed with ADHD and your case is considered a serious health condition. In that case,you can receive Family and Medical Leave Act support. The FMLA ensures that you do not lose your job when taking necessary time (up to 12 weeks) off to heal from a serious health condition. This act also guarantees that you retain the same terms of employment that you originally had for your job.
What's provided in your FMLA may vary and has requirements for eligibility. Talk with your Human Resources (HR) department at work or look online for more information on FMLAs.
A dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorder, is a mental health disorder that accompanies a substance use disorder.
Addiction and ADHD can co-occur. Studies have found someone with ADHD is 50% more likely to develop an addiction than someone without.
People with ADHD may self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to manage their symptoms, which can lead to addiction. Having both conditions can lead to more severe symptoms and a higher risk of relapse, suicide, and other negative outcomes.
In the US, over 9 million adults have a co-occurring disorder and half of those with a serious mental disorder have co-occurring substance use disorder.
To navigate ADHD, you and your care team may use a combination of therapy and medications. With the right treatment, you can manage ADHD and live a productive, fulfilling life.
Some medications for ADHD include stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, and others) and non-stimulants (Strattera, Intuniv, and Kapvay). Stimulants act fast, with almost immediate effects. Non-stimulants can take up to a week to set in but can have fewer side effects.
Stimulants like Adderall can have a calming, focusing effect on an ADHD brain. With medications like these, you can improve your focus, mental clarity, and ability to stay on-task. Doctors may prescribe non-simulants to patients who don't want to use a stimulant, haven't found it effective, or use it in combination with a stimulant. Antidepressants have similar effects as non-stimulants, though they haven't been formally approved to treat ADHD.
Finding the right fit may take time. Your prescriber may try different doses and medication classes before your symptoms abate. Depending on your situation and symptoms, you may take medications for a few months or a few years.
When talking to your doctor about medications for ADHD, keep these questions in mind:
Psychiatrists and therapists often use a combination of different therapies depending on the individual patient's needs and unique presentation of ADHD. Psychiatrists may also prescribe medication as an adjunct to therapy. Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to help the patient to develop healthy coping skills and strategies to manage ADHD.
Small lifestyle changes can help manage ADHD, such as organizing your time, setting reminders, and practicing self-care.
Support from Loved Ones Stay connected to friends and family to maintain a strong support network as you navigate your symptoms and treatment.
Scheduling And Organization External reminders can help you remember what needs to be done and keep you on task if you get distracted. You can try using sticky notes in different colors, block scheduling your days (especially at work), and setting alarms when you need to change or start tasks.
Meal prepping and planning out your outfits the night before can help your morning and evening focus too.
Accountability Partners Identify one or more people who could hold you accountable for getting places on time, completing daily tasks, and remembering important items. For example, you may ask a friend, partner, or parent to send an hourly check-in text while working on a project to ensure you're still on track.
Sleep Hygiene Establish a regular sleep routine and prioritize getting enough sleep by creating a sleep-friendly environment and practicing relaxation techniques before bed.
Stress Management Try stress-reducing activities like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. These practices can help manage stress levels and improve overall well-being.
Regular Exercise Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of ADHD. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Exercise can be especially helpful to burn off extra energy and hyperactivity. Be sure to monitor how much you exercise to make sure you're not overdoing it, and that you're eating enough.
Understanding ADHD can help you parent with added compassion and understanding. Moving forward with treatment when you see signs of ADHD can also help your child feel seen and understood. Beyond getting them professional help, you can also:
Residential rehab offers you or your loved one the opportunity to start anew in a setting tailored to your needs. With a variety of available options, one is sure to be perfect for you.