ADHD, also referred to as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a form of mental disorder that affects how you control your behavior, sit still, and pay attention. ADHD is also one of the most common mental disorders affecting both adults and children, but more likely to affect males than females. The symptoms of ADHD include impulsivity (performing hasty acts without thought) and hyperactivity (inappropriate or excessive movement). Fortunately, ADHD is preventable and curable, but early detection and good education are effective. This post will tell you everything you need to know about ADHD and why you need to have it checked out at the  ADHD Institute of Michigan.
Table of Contents
 What are the symptoms to know about ADHD?
The symptoms of ADHD normally become pronounced with age, but this does not apply to adults who were initially diagnosed with ADHD at a tender age. The following are some of the common symptoms of people with ADHD:
- Â Â Â Â Impulsiveness
- Â Â Â Â Low self-esteem
- Â Â Â Â Difficulty staying organized
- Â Â Â Â Substance addiction or misuse
- Â Â Â Â Anxiety disorders
- Â Â Â Â Easily frustrated
- Â Â Â Â Trouble focusing when reading
- Â Â Â Â Often moody
- Â Â Â Â Sleep disorders
- Â Â Â Â Often forgetting things
What are the causes of ADHD?- know about ADHD
Although the immediate causes of ADHD are yet to be known, numerous research suggests that heredity and genetics are the leading causes of ADHD. Additional research also explains that continuous exposure to harmful chemicals can increase the risk of having ADHD. Other causes of ADHD include; exposure to toxins such as lead that affect brain development, infections, poor nutrition, drinking, smoking, and substance misuse during pregnancy.
It should be noted that ADHD cannot be triggered by consuming too much sugar, bad parenting, or playing video games for an extended period. This is because research has proven that the causes of ADHD are biological or brain-based disorders.
ADHD Diagnosis and Testing
Unfortunately, there is no medical test that can determine if you or your child has ADHD. To determine if you have ADHD, your clinical social worker doctor, pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist will first evaluate any symptoms you have had over the past six months. Your doctor will also gather additional details from your family members and use rating scales and checklists to diagnose your symptoms. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, the above-listed ADHD symptoms may become severe and negatively impact the overall quality of your life or that of your child.
Treatment options for ADHD
There are numerous treatment options for ADHD symptoms, but research often suggests that close cooperation among doctors, parents, therapists, and teachers is the best way to deal with ADHD symptoms. Below are some of the recommended treatment options for ADHD:
- Medicine. The two main types of medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants and non-stimulants. Central Nervous System stimulants are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications. If they prove to be unsuccessful, your doctor may recommend other non-stimulant medications such as atomoxetine.
- Parent coaching. By making certain lifestyle changes in their children’s lives, they can develop their planning, emotional, and social skills.
- Behavioral therapy. Therapists can help you, and your child learns the best and appropriate ways to respond to behavior problems.
Untreated ADHD can have a devastating impact on your life and that of your child. It can also interfere with your work, school, or relationships. That said, it is advisable to seek reliable and effective treatment at the ADHD Institute of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, MI. You can also book an appointment by calling us at 248-629-0870.
