Facts & FAQ

Misconceptions about ADHD

Brainscan of brains with and without ADHD

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There are a lot of myths and misunderstandings about Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The disorder is characterized by impulsiveness, and hyperactivity.
There are some misconceptions about ADHD. Many people are either misinformed or totally oblivious of what ADHD actually is. Let us take a look at these misconceptions about ADHD.

ADHD is overly diagnosed
ADHD is often disregarded by many people for being a disorder of parents whose children have learning issues. Such parents look for a reason, and find a scapegoat in the form of ADHD. It is often perceived that parents want to seek mental satisfaction by basing their child’s learning weaknesses on ADHD.

But in reality, and as per research, many kids with genuine ADHD problems do not get medical help. They are often not diagnosed at all. Their behavior is blamed on the environment in which they live.

Only boys get ADHD
ADHD can affect girls too. Unlike boys, girls with ADHD tend to become extremely shy. They are more anxious, and have a tendency of having self-defeating thoughts.

Males with ADHD become rebellious, aggressive and problem-some. They develop in adults with serious behavior disorders, such as anti-social behavior, and rogue behavior.

Sugar causes ADHD
Research indicates no connection to excessive sugar intake and ADHD. Somehow, researchers cannot find the connection between hyperactivity and sugar intake. Parents of extremely hyperactive boys tend to completely make their children abstain from taking sugar-based food products because of this misconception.

Too much video games and violence on television causes ADHD
Researchers have again proven that despite so much action in the virtual world, this does not necessarily translate into hyperactivity in children.

Filed Under: ADD Help & Guidance, Facts & FAQ Tagged With: Behavior, Food, Hyperactivity

ADHD: Assumptions and Offenses

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There are words that have chased your every moment. There are assumptions that have plagued your every thought. You’ve been deemed lazy, self-indulgent and phrases far less flattering. The masses think that you lack control, believe that you refuse to tame your impulses. And this has led to a lifetime of disappointed instructors, frustrated friends and employers who simply don’t understand. You’re branded weak; you’re called worthless; and your intelligence is doubted by all.

Such doubt isn’t warranted.

The notion of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (more typically named Adult ADHD) is one few understand. Though it impacts an estimated five percent of the global population, many confuse it with personality defects — believing that those who have it are simply refusing to mature.

This isn’t true.

Adult ADHD is a serious disorder. It does not deserve anger and misconceptions therefore. This illness is not proof of low intelligence or an inability to work. It’s instead merely the aftermath of overly-stimulated minds and the lack of defenses against an excess of neurological activity. This distinction is vital and must be understood. Those who have an attention deficiency are not less skilled than others; they’re merely defined by wavering focus and the need for specific treatments and techniques.

It cannot be assumed therefore that these individuals are without merit. They are often of above-average intellect and can provide creative insights into any project. Their forms of expression are merely unique.

And because of this the insults must cease. No adult deserves to be berated for what can’t be controlled. They instead deserve patience for what they must battle each day.

Filed Under: Facts & FAQ Tagged With: Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Mental health

Defying the Misconceptions: ADHD

High Dopamine Transporter Levels Not Correlate...

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Science is shaped to assumptions, expectations, beliefs. The masses are certain only of the little truths they can quantify. There can be no changes; there can be no fickle ideas. All medical facts are to be understood and then tucked away, never to evolve into what must then be learned once more..

And this is why — too often — that Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (more commonly called Adult ADHD) is dismissed. Individuals assume that a disease cannot affect those beyond the age of 18. This is a child’s problem, it’s thought, and it eventually can be overcome with patience and experience. Age determines its existence.

This is not correct.

Adult ADHD is a genuine concern and can no longer be denied. It is estimated that 60 percent of those who are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD as children retain it as they grow older. Although the traits may vary in strength or frequency, they can still be recognized. And they will directly influence an individual’s ability to succeed — causing scattered thoughts, a loss of focus, an inability to remain seated and even depression (often sparked from the realization that a disease hasn’t faded).

This marks Adult ADHD as a serious complication therefore and it must be noted by all. The public can no longer maintain the notion of only children suffering from forgetfulness and procrastination. It is instead a problem for all ages — though it must be understood that ADHD does not appear in adults without first being seen in adolescence. This is an ailment that lasts a lifetime and it will not arrive suddenly.

Filed Under: Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Facts & FAQ Tagged With: ADHD predominantly inattentive, Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

What are some methods for coping with Attention Deficit Disorder?

Aside from medication there are many methods and tricks individuals utilize to aid in dealing with both attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This simple advice might aid you, or it might not as these are merely tips and might not work for everyone as each individual has a different situation.

When having trouble in class students who suffer from ADD or ADHD are urged to ask their teacher to repeat task instructions when they have questions, take notes on the answer. Don’t be embarrassed.

Write everything down. Keep up with things you want to remember, take notes in situations where you deem it appropriate. Keep up with assignments, phone numbers, appointments, etc. in different areas as to reduce the amount of confusion.

Make great tasks small. Break things down into smaller simple assignments or tasks and set a time line for each. As you finish a task give yourself a reward.

Live through lists. Make a daily task list and place the daily tasks in order of importance. A calendar or day planner is often best for keeping yourself on track and in line in your scheduling.

Always work in an area with minimal distractions, keep it quiet. Attempt to only do one thing on your list at a time, take breaks, regroup, reward yourself for milestones achieved.

Don’t feel bad about posting reminder notes. Place the notes on your desk, mirror, fridge, wherever you must to be a constant reminder.

Remain organized. Group items which are similar together. Have a DVD collection? Keep them all together, close to the television. Simplify your life.

Coping with ADD and ADHD is something that must be rehearsed and practiced daily. You must commit new habits to memory and learn to control your ADD or ADHD. It is not impossible to keep a close eye on things and train yourself and instill more discipline.

Filed Under: Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Facts & FAQ Tagged With: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Health, Mental health, Time management

Catering to ADD and ADHD Children During the Holidays

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Avoiding ADD and ADHD induced behavioral problems this holiday season doesn’t have to be difficult or impossible for parents.

The holidays are stressful for everyone, but more than anyone else children suffering from attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can really be impacted. The traveling, the visiting friends and family and the general disruption of typical routines all of these things can make for an overwhelming and stressful period of time.

There are things parents can do to help their children. Try to make a plan. Where routine and structure typically get tossed to the side during the holiday season. Don’t let it. Decide how you will be spending your time, create an itinerary and stick to it, make sure you buffer some time for mishaps, or overwhelming periods of time so your child can rest. Know when you will be visiting relatives, know when you will be decorating, attending parties, baking and gifting.

Pay attention to holiday activities as they are going on, know your child and feel free to remove them from scenarios which will add stress or be inappropriate based on their individual needs.

Discuss with your doctor medications some do not work round the clock normally, requesting that your doctor make them 24 hours might not be a bad idea in helping your child to cope.

Supply your children/child with tools for self control. This will help in the prevention of temper tantrums or melt downs. Teach your child relaxation methods such as yoga, exercises in breathing, etc. will help to calm a child in the midst of panic or anxiety.

Practice calming down with your child prior to placing them in situations where they will have to use them. Rehearse with them the breathing, the stopping, the taking a moment to relax. Role play with them a stressful scenario or situation and help them figure out the best methodology to solving problems and self soothing.

Filed Under: Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Facts & FAQ Tagged With: ADD and ADHD, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Health, Mental health

Dealing and Coping with Adult ADD

Playing the blame game is completely unacceptable when an individual has attention deficit disorder. You just have to deal, and you have to cope. There are a variety of methods that help in the coping process.

For many individuals with attention deficit there are issues such as a home that is constantly in disarray, the inability to pay bills on time. Sometimes it becomes easy for individuals to blame these issues on their environment, surroundings, schedule etc. The best thing to do is accept responsibility and recognize that as an individual with ADD you have to work harder to manage certain areas of your life.

Curing attention deficit disorder is possible with both medication and also lifestyle changes such as dieting, exercising and better organization and scheduling.

As I am not a licensed physician the following list is simply one that helps me to cope with my own disorder.

Working to schedule things wisely. It isn’t possible to keep your schedule completely free, however you want to make sure you don’t pack your time with commitments. Try to keep your clients, appointments, etc. to a minimum as managing a small number is much easier than something large and overwhelming. Make sure to keep a calendar and try and organize your time each day.

Take your bank ledger with you, or some other item used to track expenses. This also helps so you can keep up with what you’ve paid, know when you have to pay things and remain responsible fiscally.

Keep track of time. Wear a watch. Keep your clocks in plain sight. It will help to prevent you from losing track of time or becoming completely distracted.

Downsize your things. I know it seems intense, and it is, but it helps tremendously. Having less things keeps your area clean and less cluttered. This will allow you to be better organized. This is a hard, but necessary lifestyle change.