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Understanding ADHD

By: Sahiti Bulusu

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Learning objectives

Learners will be able to explain what ADHD is, understand how it is diagnosed and treats, and recognize the challenges as well as the strengths people with ADHD have

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Case

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Maya is a 16 year old high schools student who struggles to stay focused during class. Even though she studies hard, she often gets distracted, forgets to turn in assignments, and loses track of deadlines. At home, it takes her much longer than expected to finish homework because a lot of the time she loses focus or starts doing something else. Her parents and teachers have noticed these challenges both at school and at home, and they noticed that it is starting to affect her grades and confidence. Even with these challenges, Maya is very creative, enjoys coming up with new idealism and is a great problem solver. After discussing her symptoms with a healthcare provider, Maya is diagnosed with ADHD. With the right support, she learned how to manage her symptoms while continuing to build on her strengths.

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What is ADHD

  • Stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

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  • People with ADHD may have trouble:
    • Paying attention
    • Sitting still
    • Controlling impulses
    • Staying organized

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  • ADHD is a difference in how the brain works it is NOT caused by laziness or bad parenting

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Who Gets ADHD

  • Both children and adults can have it
    • Symptoms must appear by age 12, diagnoses are common across all age groups

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  • Approximately 11.4% in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD

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  • Both boys and girls can have ADHD

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What causes ADHD

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  • There is no know exact cause

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ADHD is linked to:

  • Genetics
    • Can run in the family
  • Differences in brain development

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NOT cause by poor parenting, family problems, too much sugar, or too much screen time

  • Environmental factors and lifestyle habits do not create ADHD, but they can sometimes influence how strong the symptoms are expressed

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Challenges and Strengths

Some people with ADHD may:

  • Lose things often
  • Have trouble sitting still
  • Interrupt others
  • Be very energetic
  • Struggle finishing task

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Not everyone has the same symptoms

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Strengths:

  • Really creative
  • Ability to hyperfocus on passions
  • Strong problem solving skills
  • Very caring and understanding

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How is ADHD Diagnosed

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  • There is no single blood test or brain scan for ADHD

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  • A qualified healthcare profession asks about the persons symptoms, medical history, and development

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  • Parents, teachers, or caregivers may fill out questionnaires or rating scales about the person’s behavior

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  • Symptoms must have:
    • Starting before age 12
    • Lasted at least 6 months
    • Happened in at least 2 or more areas (like home and school)

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  • If person meets the DSM-5 criteria, they may be diagnosed with ADHD

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Treatment

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  • There is no cure for ADHD

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  • ADHD is most effective when it is personalized
    • Behavioral therapy
    • School accommodations
    • Exercise
    • Structured routines
    • Medication
    • Support from family, teachers, and healthcare providers

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  • Many people with ADHD thrive and are very successful with the right support

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Why is This Topic Important?

I chose ADHD because it is often misunderstood. ADHD is often seen only as a challenge, but is is really a form of neurodiversity. A lot of people think it is just about being distracted or not trying hard enough, but in reality their brain processes information differently, which can make daily life difficult at times. It is a brain based condition that affects how someone focuses, organizes task and manages time. Learning about ADHD is important because it can help people be more understanding and less judgemental towards those who have it. I also allows for people to give support so people with ADHD can do well in school, work, and daily life. ADHD is not only about challenges, many people with ADHD have different strengths and ways of thinking that are really valuable.

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Quiz (highlight the word answer )

  1. Which is not a symptom of ADHD
  2. Forgetfulness
  3. High fever
  4. Difficulty paying attention
  5. Impulsive behavior

Answer: B

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Which of the following can help someone manage ADHD

  1. Ignoring the symptoms
  2. Behavioral therapy, medication, and school support
  3. Staying up late to finish homework
  4. Avoiding physical activity

Answer: C

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3. There is a blood test that diagnoses ADHD

Answer: False

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4. People with ADHD have strengths such as creativity and strong problem solving skills

Answer: True

True or False:

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Multiple Choice:

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Main Takeaways

  • ADHD is a neurodivergent condition

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  • Everyone experience ADHD differently

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  • People with ADHD have their challenges and strengths

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  • Support helps people with ADHD succeed.

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References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/
  2. National Institutes of Mental Health. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
  3. Mayo Clinic. Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878