ADHD 101: Facts from a Therapist

What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. (You may have heard of the term “ADD”; ADD is an older, outdated term for ADHD, but ADD and ADHD are the same thing.) ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. ADHD begins in childhood, and symptoms usually occur throughout a person’s lifetime. It’s the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in childhood, and one of the most common mental disorders in adults.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

To be diagnosed with ADHD, you need to have at least 5+ symptoms of Inattention or 5+ symptoms of Hyperactivity/Impulsivity that were present in childhood and negatively impact your functioning. This list of symptoms is not to be used for self diagnosis, however it can be helpful to review as a first step towards exploring if you may have ADHD.

(Everyone experiences inattention, distractibility, and poor concentration at times, so it’s important to get assessed for ADHD by a testing psychologist to get an accurate diagnosis because many of the symptoms overlap with the normal human experience, anxiety, depression, or other mental illnesses.)

Inattention Symptoms

• difficulties paying attention to detail or makes careless mistakes

• challenges with sustaining attention in tasks or activities

• often seems to not listen when spoken to

• often has difficulty with following through on instruction and fails to finish work

• difficulties with organization and meeting deadlines

• usually avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental efforts

• often loses things necessary for tasks (e.g. homework, wallet, keys)

• is easily distracted by external distractions (e.g. background noise, visual distractions, physical sensations)

• often forgetful in daily activities such as doing chores, running errands, returning calls, keeping appointments

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms

• often fidgets, taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat

• difficulties playing or engaging in leisurely activities quietly

• is often "on the go" and unable to be still for extended periods of time

• often talks excessively

• blurts out answers before a question has been completed or cannot wait for turn in conversation

• often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g. butting into conversations, using other person's items without asking)

Types of ADHD

There are three different presentations or subtypes of ADHD, however ADHD symptoms are not stable traits and may change over time.

1. Predominantly Inattentive (most common type)

2. Predominantly Hyperactive

3. Combined Presentation

The Effects of ADHD

ADHD can significantly impact various aspects of a person's life. Besides the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, ADHD often presents with additional challenges that may affect daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being.

To start off, people with ADHD are more likely to have a co-occurring mental disorder such as anxiety or depression. Additionally, ADHD impacts motivation, so people with ADHD can have particular difficulties with completing or staying on tasks that are lengthy, repetitive, or boring. People with ADHD have impaired working memory, so it can be challenging to manage mental load and executive functioning. Furthermore, emotional regulation can be a significant challenge for people with ADHD. Sleep problems are another significant concern, affecting up to 70% of people with ADHD. If ADHD is untreated, it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, poor physical health, self esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and elevated comorbid mental health conditions.

Strengths of ADHD

Despite the challenges, people with ADHD have notable strengths and "superpowers." People with ADHD have high levels of creativity and innovative thinking. They can hyperfocus on areas of interest, and this often leads to deep knowledge and productivity in specific areas. People with ADHD demonstrate strong intuition, empathy, and ability to think outside of the box. ADHD is also linked to resilience, adaptability, and high energy levels. Some exceptional people with ADHD include Michael Phelps, Simone Biles, Bill Gates, Greta Gerwig, Emma Watson, Walt Disney, and Will Smith.

If you're struggling with ADHD symptoms, you may benefit from seeking professional help from a therapist. As a therapist in Gainesville, FL, I have supported many people with ADHD to find strategies to improve executive functioning, regulate their emotions, and foster self-compassion. Therapy can help you learn ways to navigate this neurotypical world as a person with ADHD. (Click here to learn more about me!)