ADHD Awareness Month
October is ADHD Awareness Month, which is a national effort to bring attention to the disorder. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is marked by a pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. These symptoms can create difficulties within daily life and functions. However, with treatment, those struggling with ADHD often find relief and can further their success in school, work, and other areas of life.
Spreading awareness can help further research on the disorder, as well as help individuals recognize the symptoms of ADHD and receive adequate treatment.
SYMPTOMS
The signs and symptoms of ADHD may vary but, common symptoms include:
- Inattention
- Difficulty sustaining focus
- Disorganized
- Often losing things
- Easily distracted
- Overlook or miss details
- Trouble finishing projects
- Difficulty processing information quickly
- Hyperactivity
- Trouble sitting still
- Unable to engage in certain activities quietly
- Often fidgeting or talking
- Impulsivity
- Interrupting others
- Impatience and difficulty waiting
- Acting without thinking of consequences
- Inability to delay gratification
Treatment and Therapies
Treatment and therapies may vary but treatment plans commonly include:
- Medication
- Stimulants are most commonly used to treat ADHD as they increase dopamine and norepinephrine, which play essential roles in thinking and attention
- Non-stimulants may also be used in the treatment of ADHD although tend to work slower, but they still have been found to improve focus, attention, and impulsivity
- Psychotherapy
- Behavioral therapy is often used as it helps one monitor their behaviors, and focus on the positives of controlling their impulses
- Cognitive behavioral therapy is also used as it helps teach mindfulness activities and creates a greater sense of self-awareness
Finding TREATMENT AND RESOURCES
- To learn more about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or to find out if it may affect you or your child, we recommend speaking with your health care provider.
- To learn more about ADHD, the following resources are suggested:
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