ADHD

What is ADHD?

ADHD, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood. While previously thought to be a disorder that predominantly affected boys  and only lasted during childhood, research and studies since then have demonstrated that this is a disorder that spans across gender and age. New research from a meta-analysis of existing studies on ADHD suggests that the prevalence of ADHD in adults is higher than previous estimation. With estimated prevalence rates comparable to other major mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety disorders, adults living with ADHD often do not receive the same level of treatment (Ayano et. al., 2023).

There are 3 types, or classifications, of ADHD:

Inattentive Presentation

• • Inattention and distractibility
  • Difficulty with organization
  • Poor listening skills
  • Short attention span
  • Distracted by unrelated thoughts
  • Difficulty finishing tasks or following instructions

Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation

• • Hyperactivity and impulsivity
  • Fidgeting
  • Restlessness
  • Difficulting sitting or staying still
  • Interrupting what others are doing

Combined

• • This presents as a mixture of symptoms from the inattentive presentation and the hyperactive/impulsive presentation.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis can typically be done by a qualified licensed mental health professional, psychiatrist, neurologist, or physician.  The diagnosis process will usually consist of a diagnostic interview, psychometric testing, information from independent sources, DSM-5 symptom checklists, and standardized rating behavior scales for ADHD.  Once formally diagnosed, treatment ranges from psychiatric medication to therapy such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy).

Tips and Tricks

Set a Timer

Having difficulty completing tasks?  Try setting a timer.  The key to success with this tip is to set the timer for a short enough time that you don’t get overwhelmed with single tasking, but long enough to allow yourself enough time to get it done.  For example, try setting a timer for 15 minutes and challenge yourself to only cleaning your kitchen.  You could even make it a game to see if you can beat the buzzer. 

Try Some Background Noise

Struggling with racing thoughts while trying to complete tasks?  Turn on some music or maybe even a podcast or show to listen to while you study or work around the house.  This tip might not work for everyone, but it could be helpful in providing the correct amount of stimulation that your brain needs in order for you to be able to focus.  Experiment and see if listening to music with or without words works better for you.  Are there certain podcasts or genres of music that work best for different tasks?

Find Which Fidget Works

Problems with restlessness?  Try a fidget toy.  The market has expanded considerably since the initial fad of fidget spinners and now you can get practically any fidget device to suit your needs.  From spinning rings to infinity cubes and push bubble fidgets to computer key clickers, there is something for everyone.  And if you are worried about noise, they make fidget toys/devices that are relatively quiet so that you can take them to places such as work.

Interested in learning more?  You can reach us via our Contact Us page or by calling 513-846-5283 to be matched with one of our licensed therapists.  In the meantime, here are some tips and tricks that you can practice at home in between therapy sessions.

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References

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). 
• Ayano, G., Tsegay, L., Gizachew, Y., Necho, M., Yohannes, K., Abraha, M., Demelash, S., Anbesaw, T., & Alati, R. (2023, September 9). Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Umbrella Review of evidence generated across the Globe. Psychiatry Research. 
• Diagnosis of ADHD in adults. CHADD. (2023, September 13). 
• Types of ADHD in adults: Understanding the differences. ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Association. (2024, May 3).