What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Symptoms of ADHD often begin in childhood and continue into adulthood. ADHD in adults can require a lot of work, and maintaining healthy relationships is especially challenging. Those with ADHD may have less hyperactivity in adulthood. However, they may still show symptoms of restlessness and impulsivity.

What are the symptoms of ADD/ADHD?

Symptoms of ADHD may become milder with age. Common ADHD symptoms include:

Difficulty paying attention
Impulsiveness
Difficulty staying focused on a single task
Restlessness
Disorganization
Mood swings
Difficulty coping with stress

What causes ADD/ADHD?

Current research to determine the exact cause of ADHD is ongoing. Some factors that likely contribute to the development of ADHD include genetics, environment, and developmental issues. ADHD often runs in families, so you are more likely to have it if someone in your immediate family does. Lead exposure in childhood can lead to a diagnosis of ADHD. Developmental issues involving the central nervous system may also play a role in developing ADHD. Other risk factors that make individuals more likely to have ADHD include having a mother who drank or smoked during pregnancy, childhood exposure to toxins, or being born prematurely.

How do you treat ADD/ADHD?

Treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of medications and therapy. Stimulants are typically prescribed to patients who have ADHD since they can help balance out levels of neurotransmitters. Other non-stimulant medications, such as antidepressants, may be prescribed to patients who can't tolerate stimulants due to health issues, but these tend to work slower. Psychological counseling is another effective method that can help individuals who have ADHD. Counseling helps to educate patients, teach healthy coping strategies, and work on improving relationships. Many people with ADHD have a hard time prioritizing their time and keeping track of their schedule, so therapy can help educate them and find ways to function more efficiently.

The Power of ADHD Support Groups

It can feel extremely isolating living with ADHD, meaning millions of people feel alone every single day. If you’ve been given an ADHD diagnosis, you’re not alone.

Join The Mighty’s ADHD online support group and connect with thousands of inspiring members overcoming challenges and living full lives with ADHD. Every day, The Mighty members share advice, coping strategies and tips for managing adult ADHD symptoms. You can learn about ADHD-related programs, ask questions in our open ADHD forum, and even meet people in your area at local events.

Access the latest news, educational resources, and medical research in the ADHD community. When you join The Mighty’s online ADHD support group, you’re never alone.

Build Lasting Connections

Don’t let ADHD rule your life. When you join our ADHD support group, you’ll learn new ways to navigate your day-to-day life. From managing symptoms, to advice about ADHD treatment, to approaching relationships in your personal life, our members can help you build a life you love.

Learn from our members’ experiences and share your own stories to help others on their journey. Become a part of our online community and find your people today.

For ADHD support and understanding any time, anywhere, join The Mighty now.

EmotionalProcessing

Art made in my journal while processing an autism and adhd (‘audhd’) diagnosis earlier this year

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