Introduction to ADHD

Happy fall everyone! Although October has passed and ADHD Awareness Month is over, it is still very important to observe it still and promote understanding for what this disorder is.

What is ADHD?

Short for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD is a disorder with three subtypes that affects executive function, which can cause difficulties with attention, organization, and impulse control (NIMH, n.d.). These symptoms can lead to challenges in daily life, both professional and personal. Many people with ADHD have trouble focusing, completing tasks, and time management. Less talked about effects are forgetfulness and emotional outbursts. These effects and symptoms of ADHD can be managed with medication and behavior therapy.

Possible causes of ADHD are unknown, but scientists have identified some possible risk factors: genetics, exposure to environmental risks (such as lead) during pregnancy or in young adolescence, alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy and other pregnancy-related factors, child health conditions (in example a head injury), and environment (CDC, 2024). It is not uncommon for children with ADHD to have poor self-esteem and impaired academic and social function, while adults may experience poor self-worth, sensitivity towards criticism, and increased self-criticism possibly stemming from higher levels of criticism throughout life due to their symptoms.

3 Types of ADHD

• Inattentive type refers to challenges with staying on task, focusing, and organization. Someone experiencing this type may not pay close attention to details or make careless mistakes in school or job tasks, may have problems staying focused on tasks or activities (such as during lectures, conversations, or long reading), may be opt to daydream and drift off when spoken to, may not follow through on instructions and be easily sidetracked, may have trouble organizing tasks and work including time-management, may avoid or dislike tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as homework, reports, and/or forms), may often lose common every day items (such as papers, books, keys, wallet, cell phone, and eyeglasses), may be easily distracted, and may forget daily/necessary tasks easily (for example, running errands, returning phone calls, paying bills, and/or keeping appointments).

• Hyperactive/impulsive type refers to excessive movement and energy which can lead to being very talkative, fidgety, and the inability to sit still as well as making rash decisions and taking brash actions without thinking through the consequences. Individuals with this type may often fidget with their hands and/or feet, squirm, feel restless, unable to do leisure activities quietly, always be on the go and seemingly difficult to keep up with, talks too much, and may interrupt and/or intrude on others whether it be in line or conversation.

• Combined type is diagnosed when someone meets both criteria.

It is important that people who have ADHD know they are not alone; ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Anyone experiencing ADHD symptoms should look into treatment with Blue Sage Wellness, especially those neurodivergent affirming or a marginalized identity. Blue Sage Wellness sees you and hears you and will help you navigate the effects of ADHD within your specific life circumstances. In addition to helping with medication and behavior therapy, your healthcare provider will help you navigate a more healthy lifestyle which can make it easier to deal with ADHD symptoms.