ADHD
“Understanding minds that move differently”
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. However, for people with ADHD, the behaviours are frequent and occur across multiple situations, such as at school, at home, at work, or with family and friends. It is commonly diagnosed in childhood but can continue to affect individuals’ daily lives into adulthood. Adults with ADHD often experience substantial impairment in various aspects of their lives and have a high frequency of psychiatric comorbidities.
In children, the global prevalence is estimated to be approximately 5% to 7%, although it can range from 2% to 17% depending on the diagnostic criteria used and geographical location. Among adults, the prevalence is approximately 2.5%, reflecting the continuation of the disorder beyond childhood in a substantial number of cases.
Why it’s important to understand ADHD?
Symptoms begin in childhood and usually continue into the teen years and adulthood. ADHD often co-occurs with other disorders and conditions, such as conduct problems, learning disorders, sleep problems, anxiety, or depression, which can make the conditions harder to diagnose and treat.
For many people with ADHD, symptoms cause problems in daily life. Symptoms can make it hard to get things done; interfere with school, work, or other activities; and strain social relationships. Children with ADHD are at increased risk for injuries, social problems, family stress, and poor grades. Teens and adults with ADHD are more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as substance use and unsafe sexual activity.
Symptoms of ADHD
These are broadly categorized into two categories:
- Inattention symptoms
These symptoms affect your ability to focus on a task and complete it from start to finish. You might put off tasks that require focusing. You may also seem distracted when someone’s talking to you and lose things a lot.
- Hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms
These symptoms affect your ability to sit still or feel comfortable staying in one place. You may also have trouble waiting for your turn to speak or do something.
Adult ADHD symptoms may include:
- Poor planning
- Problem focusing on a task
- Low frustration tolerance
- Trouble coping with stress
- Hot temper
- Impulsiveness
- Trouble in multitasking
- Frequent mood swings
ADHD cause & risk factors
The exact cause of ADHD is not known but it is related to the following factors:
- Genetic factor. Often, the gene changes that cause ADHD are passed down within biological families. Kids with ADHD commonly have biological parents or siblings with the condition.
- Environmental factors: alcohol/tobacco abuse, low birth weight or premature delivery.
How to know the difference between typical behaviour & ADHD?
Almost everyone experiences symptoms similar to ADHD at some point. However, if your challenges are recent or happen only occasionally, it's unlikely that you have ADHD. The condition is diagnosed only when symptoms are persistent, significantly disruptive, and affect multiple areas of your life. These symptoms typically begin in early childhood.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be challenging because many of its symptoms overlap with those of other conditions, like anxiety or mood disorders. Additionally, many adults with ADHD also live with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
How ADHD can makes life difficult:
- poor performance at work
- unstable relationship
- alcohol abuse
- poor mental health
- suicidal tendency
- bad lifestyle
- social isolation
When to see a doctor
If any of the symptoms mentioned above are consistently interfering with your daily life, consider speaking with your doctor to explore the possibility of ADHD.
Various types of healthcare professionals can diagnose and manage ADHD, so look for one who is specifically trained and experienced in treating adults with the condition.
