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Essay ADHD - Mental health
Introducing Psychology
Leeds Beckett University
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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is a condition which makes it difficult for an individual to maintain their concentration on a task for a continuous period. There are three key characteristics that make-up ADHD; inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness (Kring, Johnson and Davison, 2013; Davey, 2015). Sometimes these elements combine, which allows us to categorise between the three variations in the types of ADHD diagnosed, as can be found with any condition on a thorough diagnosis (TEDx Talks, 2017).
The below information will summarise briefly; the impact ADHD has on brain function, causes, symptoms and treatments related to ADHD. There is a list of further references at the end to allow new research for you to continue with understanding an ADHD brain.
ADHD is the result of low levels of the neurotransmitters called Norepinephrine and Dopamine. These chemicals have an impact on the pre-frontal cortex's abilities in working memory and attention (Xing, Li and Gao, 2016). ADHD brain has impaired neurotransmitter activity in 4 functional regions of the brain. These impact the individual's ability to maintain attention, organisation, emotion, communication and impulsivity (ADDitude Magazine, 2020).
Although there has not been one specific cause identified for ADHD, a substantial amount of research has evidenced that inherited genetics is a key-player. Other causes such as stress, premature birth low birth weight and smoking during pregnancy, are said to have an impact and increase the likelihood of ADHD (Kring, Johnson and Davison, 2013; Davey, 2015).
In understanding ADHD, researchers have done a significant amount of investigation to find the differences between a typical brain and the brain of someone with ADHD. Through brain scans, it has been revealed that children with ADHD tend to have brains which were 3% smaller overall than the average child's brain (Castellanos, 2002). In a more recent case study, it has been shown that the differences in size are more evident in children than in adults with ADHD (Hoogman et al., 2017).
The symptoms of ADHD make it challenging to independently diagnose whether you or a loved one have ADHD without the opinion of a medical professional. The reason being as nearly all individuals can relate to some of these symptoms if not all, which leads to scepticism from surrounding individuals (Mueller, Fuermaier, Koerts and Tucha, 2012). It should be made clear that there is no need to validate or prove that you, your child or a loved one has ADHD. If discrimination continues or escalates, you should report this immediately. A diagnose is usually done through a referral from your General Practioner to a specialist who would conduct an assessment, more than likely using the DSM-5 (NHS (ADHD), 2018). Most symptoms of ADHD are displayed in children before 12 years of age. Due to the atypical levels of dopamine, the ADHD brain has problems with short term memory, as well as maintaining attention over long periods. The symptoms can be broken
down to inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. A few examples of these symptoms could be displayed as having difficulty being organised, acting without thinking, ignoring instructions, fidgeting, excessive talking and impatience (Kring, Johnson and Davison, 2013; Davey, 2015).
Treatments for ADHD usually involve medication or therapy, and in some cases, a combination of both. Researchers and specialists differ on opinion in regards to the types of treatments to implement. But it is important you or your loved one takes the best approach for you or them. However, as most medication taken for ADHD are classed as stimulants, there are certain side-affects as a result, which is why it is always important to ensure you take the medication prescribed by a medical professional. Some specialists may advise to monitor the sugar intake or make dietary adjustments in the case of children being treated for ADHD however this has been seen to have little relevance or impact to ADHD symptoms (Kring, Johnson and Davison, 2013; Davey, 2015, Holmes, 2010).
For younger children, the approach for behavioural or cognitive therapy is highly recommended to help build good habits to help children with ADHD navigate their way through life with their condition and lead a productive life.
Suggestions for parents can be found on the internet or in guidance through support groups through organisations such as the UK ADHD partnership. Reward schemes, encouragement and positive emotions can reinforce positive behaviour. Fortunately, ADHD is the most well- researched mental health condition with a wide variety of treatments today. Therefore new research and treatment methods will continue to update. ADHD comes challenges, such as being unable to do work that bores them or being able to proceed with a long-term project. However, it does gives those with condition significant advantages. Most individuals with ADHD have highlighted when a task interests or excites them they have the ability to hyperfocus on that task, their excessive level of energy giving them high levels of endurance as well as having a wondering mind which allows them to be innovative.
Essay ADHD - Mental health
Module: Introducing Psychology
University: Leeds Beckett University
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