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ADHD History

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that continues to serve as a menace to society with its cumbersome effects. Fighting a conscious battle entails being in the moment, that you may be aware of ADHD.

It causes an above-normal level of hyperactive and impulsive behaviours marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention that interferes with functioning or development. It is more common in children specifically boys but also occurs in adults. For example, you may have noticed your son is having trouble concentrating or sitting still and brushed it off as “growing curiosity”.

Types of ADHD

Predominantly Inattentive ADHD

People with this type of ADHD have a very difficult time concentrating, finishing tasks and/or following instructions. It is particularly difficult to notice this type of ADHD in a child because they tend to be closed off and non-disruptive. This type is more common in girls and famously addressed as “daydreaming”.

Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD

It is characterized by primarily hyperactive and rash tendencies. This includes but is not limited to fidgeting, interrupting people while they are talking, and not being able to wait their turn. People with this type of ADHD always seem to be unsettled and in constant hurry. They tend to keep themselves busy and cannot just seem to relax.

Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive

This is the most common type of ADHD where the patient experiences the symptoms of both types. These include an inability to pay attention, a tendency toward impulsiveness, and above-normal levels of activity and energy.

Symptoms of ADHD

If you or your child has ADHD, you may have some or all these symptoms. The symptoms you have depend on the type you have.

They include having trouble focusing or concentrating on tasks. Do you frequently leave tasks hanging or find yourself no longer occupied with the previous task you were engaged with? You may want to consider taking a test.

One may suffer from being forgetful about completing tasks. From complex to basic tasks, you may find yourself completely unaware of your responsibilities, but end up remembering at an inappropriate time.

Being easily distracted is a symptom that mostly affects children but some adults too. Especially with the rise and growth of social media that serves as a distraction.

Other symptoms include having difficulty sitting still and interrupting people while they are talking. This results to long term effects such as impatience and irritability.

 

ADHD Treatment

Treatment for ADHD typically includes behavioural therapies, medication, or both. Types of therapy that may be effective include psychotherapy or talk therapy. With talk therapy, you or your child will discuss how ADHD affects your life and ways to help you manage it. This may also include joining support groups of people living with ADHD and building a friendly environment.

Another therapy type is behavioural therapy This therapy can help you or your child with learning how to monitor and manage your behaviour. By learning how to live with your child and adjust your mannerisms, you are able to provide a conducive atmosphere for healing and progress

Medication can also be very helpful when you are living with ADHD. These medications are designed to affect brain chemicals in a way that enables you to better control your impulses and actions. However, one should be well informed on the side effects of these drugs and be well prepared for their management.

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