Empathy in action: Supporting Loved ones with ADHD
Source:- PINTEREST
At some point of time in life we all have gone through this disease called ADHD. So what is this disease?
Let’s go on a neurological journey.
ADHD (Attention deficit/Hyperactivity disorder) is the most common mental disorder affecting children but not limited to them. ADHD is considered as a chronic disorder that impacts the individual in many aspects of their life including daily activities, interpersonal relationship, professional and academic achievements. If not properly treated, ADHD can lead to poor self esteem and social function in children. Adults having ADHD may suffer from poor self-worth,sensitivity towards criticism and lack of focus towards work/study.
Signs and symptoms
Children with ADHD do not just grow out of weird behavior,however if symptoms continue,it can be severe,that can cause difficulty at school,home and with friends.
A child with ADHD might:
- Daydream a lot
- Lose things easily
- Bad performance in academics
- Talk to much
- Not stable(can’t sit for longer period)
- Have trouble taking turns
- Get annoyed easily
- Have difficulty getting along with others
Apart from child symptoms adult symptoms can be different.Such as;
- Impulsiveness
- Poor time management
- Lack of focus
- Poor planning
- Low frustration tolerance
- Frequent mood swings
- Short temper
- Lack of stress management
- Relationship issues
Causes of ADHD
Causes of ADHD and risk factors are still unknown and scientists are trying hard to find but as of now,genetics plays an important role in this. Apart from genetics, brain injury,consumption of alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy, premature delivery and low birth weight are some of the causes.
Other disorder may occur along with ADHD that makes the treatment more challenging.These are:
- Mood disorder
- Anxiety disorder
- Learning disabilities
Treatment and Therapies
Currently there is no cure for ADHD but one can reduce symptoms and improve functioning.Treatment includes medication,psychotherapy,education or training or combination of all as per the individual suitability.
Medication
Hyperactivity and impulsivity can be reduced by medication which will help individual ability to focus,work and learn. Sometimes several medications and dosages should be taken with closely monitored by a doctor to test which one suits the most and act accordingly.
Stimulants:- It increases the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which plays an important role in thinking and attention. Although it seems unusual to treat ADHD with medication that contains stimulants, it is the most common medication used to treat ADHD.
Although stimulants have no side effects but it should be taken under medical supervision and the dosage should be as prescribed
Non-stimulants:- This can take a longer time to effect on the individual body as compared to the stimulants. Doctors may prescribe non-stimulants when stimulants do not affect the individual, however sometimes both stimulants and non-stimulants are prescribed by the doctor for fast effectiveness which helps an individual to deal with the ADHD quickly.
Antidepressant can be helpful with the combination of stimulants if a patient also has some kind of disorder related to anxiety,depression or other mood disorder.Antidepressant can also be given to the patients who have some side effects with stimulants.
Conclusion:- ADHD requires strong understanding and educating yourself to create a healthy environment which benefits the patient. By doing open communication,embracing techniques which promote structure,positivity, and self care. You can create a structured environment that allows them to shine.
A stronger Bond creates a bright future.
