ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, was originally thought of as a disorder of childhood. And for many people, the image that comes to mind when they think of ADHD is an eight-year-old boy who can’t sit still in class. But in recent decades, scientists have gained a more sophisticated understanding of the causes of ADHD and have begun to realize that it can be a lifelong disorder with lifelong consequences.

Here are some common behaviours associated with ADHD:

Easily Distracted: Difficulty staying focused on tasks or conversations, often getting side tracked by unrelated stimuli or thoughts.

Difficulty Sustaining Attention: Trouble maintaining attention during tasks that require mental effort or are repetitive, leading to incomplete work or tasks.

Time Management Challenges: Difficulty estimating time accurately and prioritizing tasks effectively, often leading to procrastination or missed deadlines.

Restlessness: Often feeling the need to move or engage in physical activity, such as tapping feet, shifting in seats, or pacing.

Impulsivity: Acting quickly without thinking through consequences, such as blurting out answers, making impulsive decisions, or engaging in risky behaviours.

Forgetfulness in Daily Activities: Forgetting to do daily chores, running errands, or keeping track of personal responsibilities.

Understanding these common ADHD behaviours is crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and implementing effective strategies to manage symptoms. While individuals with ADHD may exhibit these behaviours, it’s important to note that symptoms can vary widely in severity and presentation. Treatment typically involves a combination of behavioural interventions, medication (when indicated), and support from educators, mental health professionals, and family members to help individuals with ADHD thrive in various aspects of their lives. At 2Y Mental Health, I have a special interest in ADHD By using evidence-based approaches, I can guide individuals through management of self-regulation, improving self-acceptance and self-esteem, emotion dysregulation and daily functioning.