Understanding ADHD And Mental Health

TORONTO - June 5, 2024 - PRLog -- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder categorized by two primary symptoms: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. There are three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and the combined form, which is most common. Inattentive behaviour may manifest as a lack of attention to detail, careless mistakes, difficulty listening, poor organizational skills, and being easily distracted. Hyperactive/impulsive behaviour often includes excessive fidgeting, trouble staying seated, restlessness, interrupting others, and engaging in risky behaviour without considering the consequences.

ADHD and Self Esteem

Untreated ADHD affects all areas of life including school, work, family and romantic relationships, health, and co-occurring mental health concerns. Individuals with ADHD know these challenges well. As functioning is impacted, people with undiagnosed ADHD may wonder what's wrong with them and label themselves as "stupid" or "less than." They may see their peers performing differently and negatively compare themselves to those who don't need assistance managing ADHD symptoms.

ADHD and Intelligence

It is common for people with ADHD to believe that they lack intelligence; however, this is not the case. ADHD has nothing to do with intelligence. People with ADHD may feel less intelligent because they often face difficulties with typical school and work tasks, due to challenges with functioning

Comorbid Mental Health Concerns

Moreover, individuals with ADHD are more likely to experience co-occuring mental health concerns. Two mental health concerns that are more common in individuals with ADHD are social anxiety and substance use disorder.

Social anxiety involves a fear of being judged or rejected by others in social situations. Individuals with social anxiety might avoid social interactions or feel anxious before, during and after these situations. People with ADHD are more likely to struggle with rejection sensitivity dysphoria, where they exhibit heightened emotional responses to rejection due to a fear of losing love or support.

Treatment

Treating ADHD can make it significantly more manageable and can reduce its impacts on daily functioning. ADHD can be treated using medication and/or psychotherapy. The medications prescribed for ADHD include stimulant drugs and non-stimulant options like atomoxetine. These medications increase dopamine and adrenaline levels in the brain, helping to improve focus and control impulsivity.

References

Barkley, R. (2022, November). ADHD, Executive Functioning, and Health Outcomes. [Presentation]. Professional Education Systems Institute.
Didier, J.W. (2022, November). The Critical Intersection of ADHD & Addiction. [Presentation]. Professional Education Systems Institute.

Nowell, D. (2022, November). ADHD, Neurodiversity, and Clinical Practice. [Presentation]. Professional Education Systems Institute.

Saline, S. (2022, November). ADHD, Social Anxiety and Rejection Sensitivity. [Presentation]. Professional Education Systems Institute.

Tuckman, A. & McCabe, J. (2022, November). ADHD Struggles with Self-Esteem and Labels. [Presentation]. Professional Education Systems Institute.

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