ADHD Can Impact - Home, School, Work, Family and Relationships

ADHD Brain

Many people throughout history have had what is now considered an ADHD Brain, without the means of diagnosis or treatment. In the last two decades much research has been done on the functioning of the brain, including what goes on in the brain of persons with ADHD. Brain synapses require specific transmitters to funcion properly, and we now know which transmitters are reduced in persons with ADHD. Now, if you or a loved one have symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) you can find professionals who offer diagnosis, treatment and most of all hope in navigating the sometimes crazy and frustrating world of ADHD.

History of ADHD

Although ADHD has been around for centuries, it was not formally recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) in the Diagnostics and Statistics Manual (DSM-IV, current edition) until the late 1980s.

The symptoms of ADHD first described by Dr. Alexander Crichton in 1798, of which he described his patient as having "mental restlessness."

In the 20th century, ADHD was labeled as Post Encephalitic Behavior Disorder (1922) and, later, Hyperkinesia or hyperkinetic disorder (1960s). The APA, in 1980, formally recognized Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), but as separate from ADHD, which included hyperactivity.

In the late 1980s, the APA listed ADHD as the sole diagnosis, noting a medical disorder could also present behavioral issues.

Definition of ADHD

ADHD Brain

ADHD is characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. It affects 3-7% of school-aged children, boys two to four times more often than girls and, although commonly perceived as a disorder of childhood, it can affect adults.

Causes of ADHD

No one knows for sure what causes ADHD; however, contributing factors may include:

• Genetics
• Environment
• Neurological issues and/or brain Injuries
• Diet, including sugar intake and/or food additives

ADHD Symptoms

Signs of ADHD are categorized into three diagnostic categories: predominantly hyperactive-impulse, predominantly inattentive and a combination of both.

Although questionnaires will ask if these and other signs indicative of an ADHD Brain are present, it should not replace a formal professional diagnosis.

Qualified Professionals

If you or your child is struggling with symptoms of ADHD, a number of professionals can help.

Teachers and school counselors may be the first to recognize early symptoms and direct you to ADHD professionals.

A family doctor or pediatrician can offer an initial diagnosis and refer you to medical and/or mental health professionals who specialize in ADHD.

The ADHD brain is complex and a neurologist, or physician who specializes in disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system, can diagnose and prescribe medications.

Psychologists and psychiatrists also play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Both can provide counseling, but a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medications.

Treatment

ADHD is a life-long diagnosis and, with the right professional, you will be able to find the treatment option(s) that will work best for you or your child. Possibilities include:

• Medication
• Psychological and/or behavioral therapy
• Natural remedies
• Classroom-based interventions
• Diet

Famous People With ADHD

The ADHD Brain does not mean that a person with ADHD is inferior. On the contrary, many well-known successful individuals, including scientists, actors/actresses, artists, athletes and political figures have lived very productive lives with ADHD including:

Albert Einstein

• Albert Einstein, physicist
• Thomas Edison, inventor
• Jim Carrey, comedian/actor
• F. Scott Fitzgerald, novelist
• Ansel Adams, photographer
• Norman Schwartzkopf, military general
• Vincent Van Gogh, artist
• Stevie Wonder, musician
• Andrew Carnegie, steel entrepreneur
• Patty Duke, actress
• Michael Jordan, athlete
• Abraham Lincoln, president

Summary

ADHD is a recognized disorder characterized by inattentiveness, hyper-activity and lack of impulse control. Although many quizzes and questionnaires detail signs of ADHD, a formal diagnosis needs to be made by a qualified professional. Treatment options can include allopathic and alternative medications, counseling as well as changes in diet. Children and adults with an ADHD brain will have obstacles to overcome, but can live productive, healthy, happy and, most of all, successful lives.