ADHD is a neuro-developmental disorder that impacts the parts of the brain that help us plan, focus on, and execute tasks. ADHD symptoms vary greatly, but are mainly present as inattentiveness, hyperactivity or a combination of both — and are often more difficult to diagnose in girls and adults.
This complex brain disorder impacts approximately 11% of children and almost 5% of adults by impacting the brain’s executive functions such as focus and concentration, impulse-control and organisation.
Neuroscience, brain imaging, and clinical research tell us a few important things:
ADHD is not a behaviour disorder.
ADHD is not a mental illness.
ADHD is not a specific learning disability.
ADHD is not linked to intelligence.
ADHD is a developmental impairment of the brain’s self-management system.
Both adults and children can be diagnosed with ADHD.
Common ADHD symptoms include:
The causes of ADHD remain somewhat unclear. Research suggests that genetics and heredity play a large part in determining who gets ADHD. However, scientists are still investigating whether certain genes, especially ones linked to the neurotransmitter dopamine, play a defined role in developing ADHD.
Additional research suggests that exposure to certain chemicals may increase a child’s risk of having ADHD.
ADHD is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar, or too many video games. It is a brain-based, biological disorder. Brain imaging studies and other research show many physiological differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD.
When left untreated, ADHD in adults can negatively impact many aspects of their life, including relationships, work, and mental health. Symptoms such as trouble managing time, impatience, disorganisation, forgetfulness, and mood swings can all cause problems for an individual not actively taking steps to manage their ADHD.
EFFECTIVE TREATMENTS
For many people living with ADHD, medication can help ease symptoms and improve quality of life. But medication doesn’t help you learn new skills that promote long-term change. That’s where Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) can make the most difference.
The main components of CBT for ADHD include:
Psycho-education makes up an important part of the process because understanding specific symptoms can often help you address them more easily.
A counsellor can:
From there, you’ll share some of the concerns that led you to seek therapy. Perhaps you
I offer guidance with developing strategies and goals related to these challenges.
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