Health Understanding ADHD
HEALTH: UNDERSTANDING ADHD
A NEW VIEW • Advocates today are flipping the script to call attention to the benefits of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
OPENER • Some 22 million Americans have this neurological condition, with traits such as lack of focus and hyperactivity.
WHAT IS ADHD? • Traits include inattention and hyperactivity, which can be managed with medications and therapy.
DIAGNOSING ADHD • There is no single test, but a primary care provider or mental health professional can help you evaluate your child’s traits.
ADHD RISK FACTORS • While is is not understood why ADHD traits emerge, genetics and environmental factors are thought to come into play.
ADHD IN ADULTS • Traits can include hyperfocus and distractability and can affect day-to-day life.
TIME BLINDNESS • Having difficulty perceiving time can lead to work, life, and money challenges.
ADHD IN GIRLS AND WOMEN • Traits may manifest as restlessness, emotional instability, disorganization, low self-esteem, and more.
WHEN YOUR CHILD WITH ADHD TALKS TOO MUCH • Helping your child express themself appropriately can help them now and as they age.
DIGITAL THERAPY • Researchers are developing video games that can manage traits of ADHD, but more research is needed to establish how effective the software is.
ADHD AND YOUR MENTAL HEALTH • Recent research suggests that ADHD may carry greater risk for anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and other mental health conditions. However, ADHD itself is not a mood disorder.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ADHD AND ANXIETY • ADHD is a form of neurodivergence; anxiety is a mental health condition.
ADHD COMPARED TO BIPOLAR DISORDER • ADHD is a neurodevelopment disorder, whereas BD is a mood disorder.
ADHD AND THE RISK OF DIMENTIA • A study of the possible links aims to help with prevention strategies.
RESEARCHERS EXPLORE CASUAL LINKS • A new study finds a causal connection between ADHD and some mental health disorders, but not others.
OPENER • Stimulant and nonstimulant drugs and different types of therapy all play a role in helping manage ADHD.
HOW IS ADHD MANAGED • A health care provider can recommend appropriate options, whether it’s medications, therapy, or a combination of both.
FINDING THE RIGHT THERAPIST • There are many different types of specialists who can help manage ADHD, including neuropsychologists, clinical psychologists, and ADHD coaches.
ADHD COACHING CAN HELP TEENS AND ADULTS GET FOCUSED • Requiring less intensive support than psychotherapy, coaching can help manage the complications of daily life.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY • One of the most common types of mental health therapy, CBT can be useful in helping people with ADHD.
ADDERALL, RITALIN, AND PROVIGIL • Nootropics, known as “smart drugs,” boost cognition and are commonly prescribed to manage ADHD.
HOW DOES STRATTERA WORK FOR ADHD? • Unlike Adderall and Ritalin, this medication is a nonstimulant and improves alertness without speeding up brain activity.
THE ADDERALL SHORTAGE • Increased demand, regulatory problems, quotas on production, and possible overprescription all are pressuring availability.
TAKING AN ADHD ‘MEDICATION HOLIDAY’ • TikTok creators push the trend, but doctors warn of the risks.
ADDERALL WITHDRAWAL AND DETOX • Though symptoms typically are not life-threatening, they can include anxiety and depression.
SUPPLEMENTS FOR ADHD MANAGEMENT • Omega-3 fatty acids and melatonin may help, but more research is needed to understand if iron, zinc, and other essential minerals are effective.
MARIJUANA AND ADHD • There’s little evidence that...