v Livine wir ADHD WITHA DHD Explore the remarkable struggles and strengths dictated by this disorder {tention deficitinyperactvity disorder (ADHD) is ‘a neurodevelopmental ‘condition recognised by a persoris inability to focus, ‘control impulses, organise efficiently or plan ahead. Its one of the most common ‘mental disorders, and yet diagnoses are often missed and people with it misunderstood. As people come to ‘understand and accept neurodivergence ‘n society. and the stigma surrounding itbecomes less, the number of people receiving an ADHD diagnosis s growing ver the last eight years, there have been 42% more ADHD diagnoses. ‘Not everybody experiences ADHD in the same way, and there are three main types The first is inattentive ADHD. ‘causing someone to become easly distracted from a task or conversation. ‘A person with inattentive ADHD can seem relatively calm to an outside, but ‘sbattling the brain's tendency to take e6 PsvcHoLocy Now WORDS AILSA HARVEY dlverging trains of thought. Contrasting, someone with the hyperactive impulsive type could be constantly fidgeting in any given situation, or chatting away with an abundance of energy. This type is ‘more common in males than females ‘The third type is called combination ADHD and means that the person diagnosed carit be exclusively described as having mostly inattentiveness or hyperactivity. A combination ofthe two symptoms are exhibited in these people, and the ADHD can present itself differently {in each scenario. Each type isi fixed, a a person can change their behaviour slowly over time, shifting to become ‘more or less hyperactive or focused, What are the main signs? Although not being able to focus is one of the primary signs of ADHD this sta trait lumted to someone with the disorder. Most people share this feeling throughout ife, ‘When the brain s experiencing periods yo of tiredness and stress, However, ust because you zone out in the classroom. ‘or notice some reluctance to get started. ‘with a plece of work doestit necessarily ‘mean you have ADHD. So, when should you ‘be wary of these signs? ‘The difference between standard ‘concentration fluctuations and those of someone with the disorder is the severity and resulting impact on life events. For ‘example. if you begin to daydream during aa conversation, this can be embarrassing, ‘Someone who just does this occasionally ‘may notice that they haver't been taking ‘m the information someone is telling them, and can immediately tune back ‘mwhen they actively try to. hose with ADHD however might lose focus more easily. This includes strugeling to continue ‘with a repetitive task for more than a few ‘minutes. and frequently spacing out of ‘conversations without realising or belng able to easily return to concentration. Occasionally losing focus is normal ‘and becomes a minor inconvenience, hile ADHD related inattention causes significant issues in daly fe "There are arange of ways in which ADHD can present itself depending on {a person's type of disorder and lifestyle activities Typically. these signs emerge ‘when a person is between ages three and » 63six, but many people have been classed. ‘as disruptive, thought to be choosing toactout ornot alven the necessary attention. Asa result they only receive thelr ADHD diagnosis as adults. ‘The brain of someone with inattentive ADHD enables them to experience boredom more quickly than others. ‘When presented with new information, they may be unable to take tin or organise their thoughts. This can present itself in navigational situations Even if someone has just relayed a small series of directions the brain is unable to process and recall the steps, preventing them from following the directions. ‘Signs of having more hyperactive ‘and impulsive ADHD include finding it dificult to sit in silence without talking, of remaining stil without flageting. In addition, a person may say ot do something as soon as they have a thought, ‘without much consideration of the consequences of their actions. Luvine wir ADHD ‘The power of diagnosis ‘Males are around three times more likely to ‘be diagnosed with ADHD than females. Not ‘only is this due to the higher prevalence fof ADHD in males, but iis also due to the type of ADHD that is more common in ‘males and females Females are more likely tohave inattentive ADHD and may not show the more outwardly obvious signs of being hyperactive. People experiencing ‘symptoms of ADHD before the mid:1990s ‘were less likely to be diagnosed by specialists if they were female or werent hyperactive. Many of these people are ‘diagnosed with ADHD as adults. ‘A diagnosis can be extremely eye- ‘opening for adults leading to them better understanding themselves and aspects of their behaviour they may have been. ashamed of before~or even shamed by ‘others for When ADHD isnt diagnosed during childhood. people grow up thinking they are badly behaved and there is no ‘way to control. In reality, their brains just function differently to others around. them, Without the extra support and ‘understanding of the disorder. adults with ADHD can grow up with low self-esteem and feel as though they lack control. Being told to ‘do better" wii at school, but not being given the support needed to do so. these feelings of not being good enough can become internalised. As a result of limited control, undiagnosed individuals are more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression. Receiving a late diagnosis sit always relieving. For some people this triggers feelings of sadness and anger. People often ask themselves Why? and ‘What f.7 Periods oftheir Ife that have been Impacted by undiagnosed ADHD, such as relationship difficulties failure at school or cther lost opportunities, could have been. ‘improved or avoided with treatment and better understanding in some aspects, ‘agnosis brings some feelings of grief ‘When childreris ADHD is dentfied early inlife, teachers are able to tailor their learning to optimise their chances of success. This includes arranging seating plans in rows for limited distractions, taking care to repeat instructions and not shaming children for missing those already ‘explained, teaching with visual tools and finding ways to make organisation simpler. Ultimately, one system doesnt work for every child. The more information teachers are provided about a child, the more options they can be given for learning. ‘This helps them to know what works for them, and provides them with successful tools they can use forthe rest oftheir lives. ‘Today, there is increasingly more awareness of ADHD. and so diagnoses are easter to obtain. With the right support, children are receiving better education for their needs. ‘ADHD was renamed from ADD (attention elicit disorder) to ADHD in 1987 to recognise that hyperactivity isa core symptom of the disorder. This ed to some people feeling that they were labelled inaccurately, as st gave the impression that al those with ADHD had high energy. Now ADHD is used. torefer to those who experlence elther or both of the symptoms andiis writen with aslash between words to highlight this (attention deficitiyperactivity disorden). ADHD and the brain ‘What exactly is going on in the brain to cause disruption in a persoris vain of thought and concentration? The main difference between the brain of achild with ADHD and one without is the size of the frontal lobe. This isthe area atthe front of the brain. behind the forehead, Which can mature ater in people with ADHD The frontal lobe is responsible for ma MOVa NCAR] BE A RELIEF, OR Umea AS ae) yaa PsycHoLocy Now‘organising planning attention, impulse control and decision making, Part ofthe brain within the frontal lobe, ‘called the prefrontal cortex, regulates. ‘person's thoughts, actions and emotions. ‘To recelve information and deliver it around the brain for processing, the Drain sends signals across neurons ‘Studies suggest that in the brains of Individuals with ADHD, there are fewer neurotransmitters activated between the prefrontal cortex and the basal sganglia.nearer the centre of the brain. ‘Asa result there is less dopamine released, ‘neurotransmitter that interacts with, ‘other neurotransmitters to regulate mood. Ita person has less dopamine activity. ‘they need other ways to fulfl the feeling ‘of reward that dopamine gives the brain ADHD brains are therefore chemically wited to seek more dopamine. Some of the activities people may regularly ‘engage in are playing video games and ‘exercising Being physically active can regulate the symptoms of ADHD and. help make a person with the disorder feel ‘mote engaged and organised in daily life. Dopamine in the body works to regulate ‘mpalse control so ifthe levels are low, ‘you can expect to have higher impulsivity. ‘Other areas of mental function that the prefrontal cortex regulates are alertness. attention span and short term memory. ‘Theres stl so much that scientists are ‘working to uncover about the function ‘of ADHD brains However, by recognising the imbalance of neurotransmitters in ‘te brain, people are able to begin to understand why they think and behave the way they do. Can it be controled? If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, the next step isto find methods of ‘controlling the symptoms in ways that ‘can enhance your lifestyle and enable ‘you to achieve any ambitions. As an adult ‘some ofthe essential, mundane chores ‘can quickly become overwhelming if you ‘have ADHD. Theres so much to focus ‘onat once, from bill paying and home ‘organisation to relationships and jobs, ‘The solutions to managing ADHD ‘symptoms involve both lifestyle techniques ‘and prescribed medication, One of the ‘greatest challenges to tackle with the ‘disorder is how to stay organised. While ‘ther people may be able to focus on one ‘goal to tidy the house - it might be better for someone with ADHD to break down, this task into sub tasks Ifyou start on one ‘ig project. to sort out all aspects of the home at once, the task becomes more ‘daunting and you are then more likely, tobecome distracted. If you have alist of » PsvcHoLoy Now Luvine wir ADHD 5 SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE WITH ADIID RICHARD BRANSON The entrepreneur co-founded the Virgin Group in the 1970s. Speaking publicly about his ADHD, he soid, “If feel I've learnt all there is about something, | want to move on and learn about something else. ‘Asa result, I've created 500 different companies in my lifetime.” MICHAEL PHELPS Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps was diagnosed with ADHD as a child and struggled to focus at school. Phelps had high hyperactivity, but learned how to channel this energy into his swimming training, gaining him 23 Olympic gold medals for the USA. GRETA GERWIG Gerwig is an American actor, director and screenwriter, who directed the films Barbie, Little Women and Lady Bird. Speaking about her ADHD diagnosis, she said, “I've always had a tremendous amount of enthusiasm. | was just interested in everything,” JIM CARREY The famous actor and comedian was diagnosed with ADHD. In school he would disrupt other children after finishing his work. However, n the right environment - on stage and screen - Carrey channelled his energy and creativity to become hugely successful. LILY ALLEN In 2022, the British singer revealed her ADHD diagnosis ond explained how this led to her changing her lfestyle habits. She said, “I've had to completely switch off social media, becouse as soon as | look ot it, it can be hours of my day gone.”Luvine wir ADHD THE AUTI M CORRELATIO? ADHD and outism are two of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, and share some symptoms, such as impulsivity and difficulty focusing and communicating. Because ofthis, the two can be confused. However, the disorders often oecur at the same time, with 28-4436 of people with autism alse heving ADHD. When it comes to situations that require focus, @ person with ADHD ‘and one with autism can struggle, but for different reasons. The differences can be spotted in children. Autistic individuals may be unable to focus on an activity if itis one they don't particularly enjoy. but can fixate for long periods on their interests. People with ADHD are likely to dislike on activity if they need to concentrate on it. Studies show that if « child is diagnosed with both conditions, they are more likely to show signs of combined ADHD, expressing hyperactivity and impulsivity, while struggling to pay attention, When ADHD and autism meet, an individual can experience an internal conflict between wanting to be impulsive while striving for a comforting, structured routine. ee 22 small steps such as ‘cleaning the bookshelf" cr hanging up clothes, then each task is. shorter and can be ticked off the list more easily This gives you a clearer vision of ‘what has been done and a more systematic approach. Physically ticking a to-do list also. releases dopamine into the body. helping to keep you on-task Furthermore, you set distracted, you can return to thelist for ‘guidance. Knowing what to prioritise may reduce the impulsivity to switch actwvities, Calendars and planners are a vital tool for many people with ADHD, to manage appointments and stay on top of deadlines. Opting for a digital version of each can assist you further. as you can set automatic reminders. This automation adds more guidance and structure that you dont have to depend on your memory for ‘To assist ifestyle tweaks, there are also five medication options that can be Drescribed by a doctor to manage the ‘symptoms of ADHD. These dont cure ADHD but can help to improve the mindset Cf some with the disorder. The five types (of medicine are called methyiphenidte, lisdexamfetamine, dexamfetamine, atomoxetine and guanfacine. Methylphenidate is stimulant and the most common of the five. To treat ADHD the medicine increases activity {in the brain to improve attention, Adults and children over five years old can take these tablets dally to enhance concentration Lisdexamfetamine is given to people who dont show signs of ‘behavioural improvement after six weeks ‘on methylphenidate Its considered ‘more effective but is also more likely to cause side effects, such as weight oss, nausea and decreased appetite When lisdexamfetamine is absorbed into the ‘bloodstream, and comes into contact with red blood cells. itis converted into its active form. Itthen increases dopamine levelsin the nervous system Dexamfetamine works in the same way as isdexamfetamine. ‘Atomoxetine isa medication that works to.control impulses and concentration by producing more signals between brain cells ‘Todo this, the medication increases the amount of a chemical called noradrenaline in hebrain. This s the chemical responsible for passing messages between neurons. Finally, guanfacine stimulates the part of the bratn responsible for controlling attention spans and strengthens the neuron network in this area. This medication has also proven to reduce blood pressure. Forall ofthese medications, you should speak with your doctor so that you are aware f all the possible side effects. ‘Supporting a child Ralsing achild with ADHD can be daunting. Unlike other aspects of thetr if, which you have firsthand experience of, you may not havea brain that works in the same ‘way as theirs. The best way to support them isto become well-educated on the signs and implications of ADHD. This will help you to be understanding. Many of the behaviours a child with ADHD exhibits arent entirely controlled by the child, so becoming angry can make them feel unseen, isolated and frustrated. ‘When speaking toa child with ADHD you should aim to give any instructions when they are looking at you. This increases the chance that you have gained their attention and what you are saying is being heard. Remember not to set extended. tasks and instead breakup a routine into smaller and more manageable activites. If there are other people in the family, the best way to handle life with ADHD Js toot ignore itor overly focus your attention on the disorder. This means that you should explain the difference ‘mneeds to other slings, but dont focus too much of your attention on just the child with ADHD This can make them feel singled out All children will benefit PsvcHoLocy Nowfrom a regular routine and exercise Make sure bedtime is set and remains consistent. every night. Before bedtime, remove screens and promote relaxing activities to limit energy spikes or distractions. Lastly. itis important to focus on the Childs strengths as wel as their challenges. ADHD can increase a person's enthusiasm for topics and activites Give regular praise to your child when deserved, while also hhaving clear boundaries. This lets child ‘know that you recognise their difficulties ‘without letting them get away with ‘damaging impulsive behaviour They will {grow up to celebrate themselves and their ‘own personal achievements and learn that ‘violence or disorderly behaviour won't be accepted as an outlet for their struggles. If your childs acting out alot, try to create safe space where you can communicate ‘with them about their feelings. ADHD ‘can make it more difficult for people to ‘manage thelr emotions, o it vital they Ccan disclose this with you ora specialist to get any adttional help they need. Navigating the workplace with ADHD Some of the skills that employers search forin their workforce include those that someone with ADHD has to input more effort to achieve. In an office job, for ‘example, people are required to work sitting stil for hours ata time, while surrounding Colleagues create a multitude of potential distractions Most people without ADHD Could tune out from the background noises ‘and movements while someone with the disorder will divert thelr attention much ‘more easily In addition, employees are often expected to manage their time, stay on top ‘of multiple projects, meet strict deadlines, and pay attention to new information. ‘Work can take up a significant portion (of your life, soit is good to experiment ‘ith strategies to optimise your comiort ‘and performance in the workplace. Firstly, prioritise a new morning routine for your Job Punctuality can be a challenge with an easily distracted mind, but with added structure you can work on controlling ‘your impulses Doing activities atthe same time every day helps build habits and reduces the likelihood of procrastination. ‘When at work if you find yourself unable to remember information from meetings. take apen and paper with you. Even if you. are the odd one out in today's increasingly Aigital world, physically writing information ‘down has been proven more effective for recalling itlater by increasing brain activity. If'your working environment allows it, attempt to declutter the space around you. ‘The fewer distractionsin your eyeline, theless your ADHD will steal your focus. Playing white noise or calming music PsycHoLogy Now Luvine wir ADHD while working works similarly to block out audible distractions. ‘Another useful technique. if you are ‘concerned about your perception or ‘communication skills, isto actively seek {feediback Having regular one-on-one ‘meetings with your colleagues and boss ‘can help you to understand each other. Ask for constructive criticism on your ‘work ethic and communication skills, and be honest about your disorder. This will prevent any misunderstandings and keep you on track with your targets. How does ADHD affect relationships? ‘ADHD can make a person enthusiastic, {intriguing and exciting to be around. ‘Somany unique and desirable traits ‘canbe influenced by the disorder and ‘make a person loveable But oftentimes, the best part of a person comes alongside more challenging attributes. Close relationships bring hurdles for both the person with ADHD and the person ina relationship with them. ‘Navigating the extra stresses of daily fe ‘with ADHD can increase a persoris anxiety. By the end ofthe day. when at home with, thelr partner it might only take a small ‘comment or action to release the frustration In this situation, both people in the couple need to learn to recognise when stress is building. Instead of tentatively avoiding ‘an outbutst,open and calm conversations heed tobe had to diffuse negative emotions ‘The impulsive side of some people ‘with ADHD can result in relationships forming very quickly. When entering relationship this way, built on initial feelings the connection may fade quickly asitisless likely to be built on each other's needs Part of this s due to the person ‘with ADHD overthinking the situation or losing interest To overcome the chances of this situation if a relationship develops ‘quiciay.both people should communicate ‘openly what they are looking for in the relationship and be honest with each other ‘about feelings. This helps the person with ADHD to gain security and think through ‘whether the situation is suitable for both, ‘The most important attribute for allin relationship to master is understanding. For the person without ADHD there are ‘many occasions that could lead to them feeling underappreciated, This includes {forgetting appointments in the calendar, accidentally zoning out mi¢-conversation ‘and getting bored easily. However, the ‘more you learn about your partner's disorder, the more knowledgeable you will ‘become about how their brain works, The beauty of ADHD ADHD stays witha person for If. But, with ‘experience it becomes easter to manage. Attimes when the symptoms become overwhelming to manage, itis worth acknowledging the aspects ofthe disorder that contribute to some of the best ‘qualities in a person's personality. Ifyou have ADHD, your ability to Inyperfocus on one thing ata time can Jead to you excelling at something far ‘quicker than others around you. This ‘builds highly talented individuals and some of the most successful people on ‘the planet ADHD also makes many people ‘more creative, enthusiastic and funny. ‘They are often the most popular people tna room due to their vibrant exterior Inaddition, being forced to work harder ‘than others around you for some aspects of school and general life can be the making ‘ofa persistent and empathetic individual. ‘The more awareness there is around the thought processes of those with ADHD the ‘more freedom there is for neurodivergent ‘people to be themselves, understand ‘their most desirable and challenging ualities and finda place of support that they need to reach their tre potential. = or ety ae hr nce big