Understanding ADHD: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Management Strategies

ADHD is also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurological disorder that affects daily functioning in individuals. It is often diagnosed in childhood based on the symptoms the child is exhibiting and can persist in adulthood. The symptoms often include an ongoing pattern of inattention and or hyperactivity and impulsivity.

The ADHD symptoms are grouped into two categories:

Inattention:

-trouble in staying focused on activities and tasks

-missing details while doing an activity or completing with careless mistakes

-having difficulty with time management, organization and keeping up with assigned tasks

-hard time paying attention to listen when spoken directly to

-avoiding tasks that require extended cognitive efforts

-can be easily distracted

Hyperactivity and impulsivity:

-feeling the need to move constantly

-trouble in being seated when required to

-inability to slow down while doing an activity

-fidgeting and squirming

-excessive talking

-interrupt others' activities or conversations

Causes:

-Exact cause of ADHD is still unknown but research shows that it is dues to a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors.

-poor parenting or screens do not cause ADHD

-ADHD tends to run in the family and about 70-80% one of the parents also has it.

-Prenatal exposure to nicotine, alcohol or stress could cause ADHD

-premature birth or low birth weight

exposure to lead or toxins in early childhood

Strategies that can help:

-structure and routine: consistent routine, daily schedule (same wake up time. meals and bedtime}

-Using visual schedules, timers, checklists to keep a track of things

-breaking large tasks into smaller steps help

External supports like reminders, alarms and planners help in tracking time and managing the tasks

-having designated workspace and away from distractions can help

-praise and rewards work better with ADHD brains

-give immediate feedback than waiting too long

-give short clear directions

-calming strategies like deep breathing or movement help set the mood

-behavior therapy, medication (stimulant and non- stimulant) helps balance brain chemistry

parent coaching to support yourself and your children