Coping with ADHD. and the way forward.
ADHD has three core symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. All three of these core symptoms present in different ways throughout the lifespan.1
Inattention
Inattention speaks to difficulty paying attention and listening when spoken to, as well as being easily distracted and forgetful in daily activities. Not following through on instructions and not finishing schoolwork, work projects or housework are also indicative of inattentiveness.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is most often seen in general fidgety behaviour – not being able to sit still or sit in one place for an extended period of time. This might also present as disruptive behaviour in inappropriate situations. Hyperactive individuals have trouble sitting quietly or entertaining themselves, and always seem to be ‘on the go’, often talking excessively. A kind of ‘inner restlessness’ might also be indicative of hyperactivity, with an inability to relax peacefully.
Impulsivity
Examples of impulsive behaviour include blurting out answers before questions are completed, a lack of patience, often interrupting others and intruding on conversations. Impulsivity can also present as a fierce temper and engaging in risky activities.
Types of ADHD
Due to varying personality types, people show different symptoms, which ultimately means there is more than one type of ADHD. The various types are,1
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type
This type of ADHD is particularly disruptive and people living with this disorder showcase symptoms that are primarily hyperactive and impulsive. These include fidgeting, interrupting people that are talking and not being able to wait their turn.
Predominantly inattentive type
As the name suggests, people that are affected by this type find it difficult to pay attention. Children with this type of ADHD may not receive a proper diagnosis as they do not interrupt the classroom.
Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive type
This happens to be the most common type of ADHD and people living with this disorder display both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.
If you feel you might be experiencing the symptoms of ADHD, complete a personal assessment and make an appointment to visit a healthcare professional, who will help with a formal diagnosis and necessary treatment.
Diagnosing ADHD is the first step in implementing an effective and holistic treatment plan and enjoying a full, unhindered life – at home, school or at work. Although ADHD has three core symptoms – inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity – each of these presents in different ways depending on the individual, which means there are a number of varied symptoms in children, teens and adults. In adults, five or more of these symptoms need to be present and in children or adolescents, six or more.1
For a conclusive diagnosis, the symptoms of ADHD need to have persisted for at least six months, have had their onset before the age of 12 and must have caused some kind of functional impairment. These symptoms of ADHD can’t be better accounted for by another mental disorder and need to be present in more than one setting – for example, they need to be present at work and in social situations, or at school and at home.1
If you feel you might be experiencing the symptoms of ADHD, complete a personal assessment and make an appointment to visit a healthcare professional, who will help with a formal diagnosis and necessary treatment.
ADHD affects all aspects of a person’s life, which is why a comprehensive and collaborative treatment plan is the best possible way to manage the condition. Teachers, employees and family members need to work together and communicate openly to ensure the person living with ADHD feels supported and understood.
Medication has shown to be an effective first-line therapy when treating ADHD, but medication should be used in conjunction with behavioural therapy and psychotherapy to successfully manage ADHD. Medications work to improve the key symptoms of ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
It’s vital to work closely with a healthcare professional to find an effective, holistic treatment plan that works for the individual.
Depression is often described by some as an episode of the blues, however, it’s so much more than that and the impact can be detrimental to the wellbeing of a person suffering with depression.1
To effectively deal with the symptoms of depression, psychiatric help is suggested and the healthcare professional will be sure to prescribe a treatment option that suits the lifestyle of a person living with depression.
If you feel you might be experiencing the symptoms of ADHD, complete a personal assessment and make an appointment to visit a healthcare professional, who will help with a formal diagnosis and necessary treatment.