What is ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition where people have difficulty with inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, regulating their mood, and organisation. Some ways this may be displayed by your child or teen with ADHD is:
-
Following or understanding directions
-
Sitting still
-
Acting without thinking (Impulsivity)
-
Having trouble in school and home
-
Paying attention
-
Concentrating
-
Misplacing things
ADHD Neurologically
Studies have found those with ADHD hold differences in their brain structure. Such as the amygdala, hippocampus, caudate, cerebellum, putamen, and thalamus appear to be smaller as well as encountering development delay. These areas of the brain affect:
-
Problem Solving
-
Memory
-
Language
-
Motivation
-
Judgment
-
Impulse control
-
Social behaviour
-
Planning
-
Decision-making
-
Attention
-
Ability to delay gratification
-
Time perception
Neurons in the brain send signals through the brain in groups of nerve cells known as "networks." Researchers have established multiple core networks that work differently in people with ADHD such as:
-
Reward
-
Focus
-
Planning
-
Attention
-
Shifting between tasks
-
Movement
Hormones that act as a chemical messenger help transmit signals from one nerve cell to the next across the networks in the brain are called neurotransmitters. Dopamine and norepinephrine are involved in managing:
-
Attention
-
Reward
-
Motivation
-
Concentration
-
Memory processes
Dopamine and norepinephrine levels are also associated with mood and anxiety disorders. Research shows disruptions to their signalling in the pathogenesis are linked to several neuropsychological disorders including, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and drug addiction.
Dopamine and norepinephrine are not the sole cause of ADHD, but do play a fundamental role in ADHD.
​
How ADHD develops is yet to be fully understood. Ongoing research provided us with the knowledge to recognise symptoms of ADHD, causing extensive functional impairment and imbalance within social and family life, educational development, increased school dropout risk; leading to low self-esteem and delayed emotional development.
​
For further support and information call me today.