Understanding ADHD

Why our Comprehensive Diagnostic process is Essential

What is ADHD?

ADHD is frequently thought of in terms of certain behaviors, like impulsivity, difficulty focusing, and hyperactivity, but it is much more than that. ADHD is a result of a variation in brain function and cognitive processes, and it is referred to as neurodivergent. The typical, or more common brain patterns, are known as neurotypical. It is this variation in brain wiring that results in the challenges, as well as the unique strengths and perspectives of those with ADHD.

Why is an accurate diagnosis so important?

As ADHD presents many challenges, it often results in poor self-esteem. A diagnosis validates that neither you, or your child, are lazy, stupid, bad, or a failure, but in fact have a condition, that once diagnosed and understood, can be managed, and one’s full potential reached.

Is medication the only treatment?

No, it is one of several treatments. Research shows that medication can be helpful, but the most effective treatment involves other supports such as CBT Psychotherapy Therapy, Behavioral Therapy which includes classroom or work accommodations, ADHD coaching, Neurofeedback, and several others.

ADHD and Coexisting Conditions

Approximately 70% of individuals with ADHD have at least one coexisting condition and oftentimes the symptoms of ADHD mask other conditions.
The coexisting conditions fall into 5 major categories: Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Mood Disorders, Learning Disorders, Sleep Disorders and Substance Abuse

Disruptive Behavior Disorders

There are primarily two conditions under the umbrella of disruptive behavior disorders: ODD and CD. Oppositional defiant disorder, referred to as ODD, involves a pattern of arguing, losing one’s temper, refusing to follow rules, blaming others, deliberately annoying others, and being angry and vindictive. Conduct disorder, CD, may also be present. Children with conduct disorder may be aggressive to people or animals, destroy property, lie or steal things from others, run away, or skip school. Adults with CD often exhibit behaviors that get them into legal trouble.

Mood disorders

There are primarily 3 conditions under the umbrella of mood disorders: anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Mood disorders are characterized by extreme fluctuations in mood. Children with mood disorders appear frequently to be in a bad mood, may cry daily, or often be irritable with others. Adults with mood disorders often describe themselves as having mood swings for no apparent reason. When we think of mood disorders, we think of anxiety and depression. A more severe mood disorder is bipolar disorder, involving periods of elevated mood and energy followed by episodes of clinical depression. Approximately 38% of adults with ADHD have a co-occurring mood disorder, and up to 30% of children have a mood disorder.

Learning disorders

Up to 50% of children with ADHD have a coexisting learning disorder, compared to 5% of children without ADHD. The most common learning disorders are dyslexia and dyscalia. Dyslexia affects how individuals acquire or use new information and dyscalia is a problem with speech.

Sleep disorders

Between 25% and 50% of parents report that their children and teens diagnosed with ADHD experience problems falling asleep and staying asleep. Many adults diagnosed with ADHD also report sleep problems; however it is not known whether sleep problems are a symptom of ADHD, made worse by ADHD, or a symptom of a coexisting condition.

Substance abuse

Research has shown that individuals with ADHD are at increased risk for substance abuse. It is important to note that the belief that children and adolescents prescribed stimulant medication for their ADHD are more prone to stimulant abuse than others is false; in fact, adolescents who are prescribed stimulant medication for their ADHD are less likely to subsequently use illegal drugs than children with ADHD who were not prescribed medication.