Tips to Manage and Overcome ADHD
Edited by Brittany Albright MD and graphic by Charlotte Burlos
At Sweetgrass Psychiatry in Mount Pleasant, SC, we are passionate about helping individuals that are struggling with ADHD. We believe it is a brain based illness that can negatively impact one’s functioning and prevent people from achieving their full potential if left untreated. We also believe that ADHD can be over diagnosed, therefore, we carefully evaluate patients’ symptoms and history, review past records, and obtain definitive neuropsychological testing when indicated.
First of all, what is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults, though it often starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood. ADHD is characterized by a combination of persistent symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Some individuals “grow out” of their ADHD.
There are three primary subtypes of ADHD:
ADHD, Inattentive Type: Symptoms primarily involve problems with attention.
Easily distracted, misses details, forgets things
Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play
Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
Often loses things
Avoids or is reluctant to do tasks that require sustained mental effort
ADHD, Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Symptoms primarily involve hyperactive and impulsive behavior.
Fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat
Runs or dashes around in inappropriate situations
Unable to play or engage in activities quietly
Interrupts or intrudes on others' conversations or games
Talks excessively
ADHD, Combined Type: This is the most common subtype and involves both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and brain factors may play a role. We also ensure that we rule out other mental health or medical conditions that may mimic ADHD symptoms such as depression and anxiety.
Factors that may be linked to the development of ADHD include:
Genetics: ADHD tends to run in families.
Brain structure and function: Imaging studies have shown differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD compared to those without the disorder.
Environment: Exposure to lead or certain toxins, maternal drug or alcohol use during pregnancy, or premature birth might contribute to the risk.
Managing ADHD typically involves a combination of the following strategies:
Medication: Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Azstarys, Cotempla) and amphetamine-based drugs (Adderall, Vyvanse, Adzenys, Dyanavel, Mydayis) are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera), Qelbree and guanfacine (Intuniv), can also be used.
Behavioral Therapy: This focuses on changing negative behavior patterns and developing positive ones. It can be particularly useful for children with ADHD, helping them manage their behavior and improve their self-esteem.
Psychoeducation: Understanding ADHD and how it affects one's life can be empowering. Learning about the condition can help individuals with ADHD and their families develop strategies to cope.
Parent Training: For children with ADHD, parent training can be beneficial. It teaches parents techniques to modify and manage their child's behavior.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This can help individuals with ADHD develop coping strategies, improve time management and organizational skills, and address any co-existing conditions like anxiety or depression.
Lifestyle Changes:
Diet: Some people find that certain foods exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. It can be helpful to monitor diet and eliminate potential culprits to see if symptoms improve.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can be beneficial for managing ADHD symptoms. It has been shown to improve concentration, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve mood.
Sleep: Establishing a regular sleep routine and ensuring adequate sleep can help manage symptoms.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Techniques like mindfulness meditation can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity.
Educational Support: This can include:
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 Plans for students in the US. These are designed to help students with disabilities, including ADHD, receive appropriate accommodations in school.
Tutoring to address academic difficulties.
Time management and organizational tools, such as planners, calendars, and electronic reminders.
Coaching: ADHD coaches work with individuals to develop strategies and structures that allow them to function more effectively in their daily lives.
Social Skills Training: This can be beneficial for those with ADHD who struggle with interpersonal relationships.
Support Groups: Sharing experiences and coping strategies with others who have ADHD can provide emotional support and practical insights.
Biofeedback/Neurofeedback: This technique uses electronic monitoring to convey information about physiological processes. It aims to teach individuals to control certain physiological functions to reduce symptoms of ADHD.
Limiting Distractions: Creating an environment that minimizes distractions can be helpful. This might mean a quiet room for studying or working, using noise-cancelling headphones, or establishing specific areas for specific tasks.
As with all mental health conditions, it's important to remember that what works best will vary from person to person. A combination of treatments often works best, and it might require some trial and error to find the most effective strategies for a given individual.
At Sweetgrass Psychiatry, we emphasize holistic treatment paired with medication management when necessary. We tend to be conservative in our use of medications to protect our patients’ health and minimize side effects. Call Sweetgrass Psychiatry at (843) 800-1303 to schedule your ADHD consultation today.