Understanding ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD affects people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed during childhood, with the average age of diagnosis being around 7 years old. However, many people are not diagnosed until adulthood, and some may never receive a formal diagnosis.

ADHD is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical interviews, behavioral observations, and standardized rating scales completed by parents, teachers, and other caregivers. A thorough evaluation may also include psychological testing to rule out other conditions that may mimic ADHD symptoms. While there is no single test to diagnose ADHD, healthcare professionals typically use a set of criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to make a diagnosis.

Treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Medications such as stimulants and non-stimulants can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Behavioral therapy may include individual counseling, family therapy, or social skills training. Common therapy techniques and models used in treating ADHD include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and parent management training.

Only qualified healthcare professionals such as psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and licensed mental health professionals can diagnose ADHD. It is important to note that a diagnosis of ADHD does not necessarily mean that someone has a disability. Many people with ADHD go on to live successful and fulfilling lives with appropriate treatment and support. A diagnosis can provide a better understanding of an individual’s strengths and challenges and may lead to improved educational and occupational outcomes.

Summary

  1. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects between 5-10% of children and 2-5% of adults worldwide. (Polanczyk et al., 2007)
  2. The symptoms of ADHD are typically divided into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. (American Psychiatric Association, 2013)
  3. ADHD is often accompanied by comorbid conditions, such as anxiety and depression, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. (Pliszka et al., 2019)
  4. ADHD has been linked to differences in brain structure and function, including altered activity in the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia. (Cortese et al., 2012)
  5. ADHD can have a significant impact on academic and occupational functioning, as well as social relationships and overall quality of life. (Barkley et al., 2008)
  6. ADHD is highly heritable, with estimates of the genetic contribution ranging from 60-80%. (Faraone & Mick, 2010)
  7. Treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes. (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2019)
  8. Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine, are considered first-line treatments for ADHD and have been shown to be safe and effective in reducing symptoms. (Storebø et al., 2015)
  9. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and parent training, can help individuals with ADHD develop coping strategies and improve their daily functioning. (Pelham & Fabiano, 2008)
  10. Early identification and treatment of ADHD can improve long-term outcomes and reduce the negative impact of the disorder on individuals and their families. (DuPaul et al., 2020)

References:

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). ADHD: Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 144(4), e20192528.

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Association.

Barkley, R. A., Murphy, K. R., & Fischer, M. (2008). ADHD in adults: What the science says. Guilford Press.

Cortese, S., Kelly, C., Chabernaud, C., Proal, E., Di Martino, A., Milham, M. P., & Castellanos, F. X. (2012). Toward systems neuroscience of ADHD: A meta-analysis of 55 fMRI studies. American Journal of Psychiatry, 169(10), 1038-1055.

DuPaul, G. J., Weyandt, L. L., O’Dell, S. M., & Varejao, M. (2020). College students with ADHD: Current status and future directions. Journal of Attention Disorders, 24(2), 161-171.

Faraone, S. V., & Mick, E. (2010). Molecular genetics of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatric Clinics, 33(1), 159-180.

Pelham, W. E., & Fabiano, G. A. (2008). Evidence-based psychosocial treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 37(1), 184-214.