Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Q & A

Your Most Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD – Part 2

We have been talking about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and trying to shed more light on some of the symptoms and conditions. Yesterday I started to try answering some questions people have about the condition such as “Who Tests Adults”, “Sensory Overload”, “Time Blindness”, “Symptoms and Conditions” and more. We will pick up from where we left off yesterday. Let’s to try and answer some more questions……..

Welcome to: Day 11 of “A Minute in the Clouds with Greg.” 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, affects millions worldwide, but there is still a lack of understanding and a lot of misunderstanding. This creates barriers that prevent people with ADHD receiving the support and care they deserve. 

By highlighting some of the latest advancements in diagnosing and managing ADHD,I hope to dispell some of the myths. It is my sincere hope that I can help foster more empathy and understanding towards people who have ADHD.

If you haven’t seen the other articles about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, check them out. 

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It is not easy to create when you have ADHD, a brain injury, and a host of other things going on. Comments, likes, and feedback on how I might make these videos better is always appreciated. Let me know in the comments the type of content you would like to see and I will try to make that happen.

So, let’s dive in and continue exploring the world of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. and hopefully demystify and bring more clarity! 

Q & A About Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Part 2

What Other Conditions Commonly Coexist With ADHD

Over 2/3 of people with ADHD have at least one other Co-occurring condition, which can cause additional problems if left untreated. Certain disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, tics and Tourette syndrome, learning disorders, sleep disorders, and substance abuse, can coexist with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Facts

• About 40% of people with ADHD have oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), characterized by arguing, temper outbursts, and refusing to follow rules.
• Conduct disorder (CD) occurs in 27% of children, 45-50% of adolescents, and 20-25% of adults with ADHD, involving aggressive and destructive behaviors.
• Approximately 38% of adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have a co-occurring mood disorder, including depression and bipolar disorder.
• Up to 53% of adults with ADHD may have an anxiety disorder, leading to excessive worrying and stress.
• Less than 10% of those with ADHD have tics or Tourette Syndrome, but 60-80% of those with Tourette Syndrome have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
• Up to 50% of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have a coexisting learning disorder, such as dyslexia or dyscalculia.
• 1/4 to 1/2 of children with may have sleep disorders, exacerbating ADHD symptoms.
• Youth with ADHD are at increased risk for early cigarette use, alcohol, and drug abuse, but stimulant treatment may reduce illegal drug use.
• The diagnostic process for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder must consider other possible coexisting conditions, requiring interviews and questionnaires.
• Treatment plans for co-occurring conditions are tailored individually, with ADHD often treated first to improve coping and attentional resources.

Source: CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) (ADHD)

CHADD is an organization that offers education, advocacy, and support for individuals with ADHD and their families.

Who Tests Adults for ADHD

Diagnosing ADHD involves gathering information from various sources and meeting specific criteria, including symptoms in childhood, to determine the appropriate treatment.

Facts

• To diagnose ADHD in adults, consult a healthcare professional experienced in treating people over 17, such as a Psychiatrist, Neurologist, Primary care physician, Clinical psychologist, or Clinical social worker.
• Psychological tests like symptom checklists or behavior rating scales may be used during the diagnosis process.
• Medical history and a physical exam can help rule out other conditions that mimic ADHD symptoms.
• Open communication with the doctor about symptoms, experiences, and challenges is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
• Major issues in work, school, or home life are typically required for an ADHD diagnosis.
• Symptoms must have started in childhood, even if they present differently now, and involving parents or partners in the discussion can provide valuable insights.
• Providing relevant records, such as work evaluations or previous test results, can assist in the diagnostic process.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can manifest as the hyperactive/impulsive type or the inattentive type, or a combination of both.
• Treatment for ADHD may involve a combination of medication, therapy, and learning strategies to manage behavior.

Source: Web MD Diagnosing ADHD in Adults

Deciding if a child has ADHD

Deciding whether a child has ADHD involves a multi-step process, and there is no single test for diagnosis. Healthcare providers use specific criteria from the DSM-5 to determine if a child has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms. It is also important to note that ADHD can persist into adulthood.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Facts

• To diagnose ADHD, healthcare providers use the guidelines in the DSM-5, ensuring appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.
• Inattention symptoms include lack of focus, trouble organizing tasks, forgetfulness, and being easily distracted.
• Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms include restlessness, talking excessively, difficulty waiting turn, and interrupting others.
• The criteria for ADHD require symptoms to be present before age 12 and in multiple settings (e.g., home, school, work).
• Three presentations of ADHD can occur: Combined, Predominantly Inattentive, and Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive.
• ADHD can persist into adulthood, with diagnosis based on five symptoms instead of six for younger children.
• For accurate diagnosis and treatment information, refer to the websites of the National Resource Center on ADHD and the National Institutes of Mental Health.

Source: CDC The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Additional Facts

Approximately 10 million adults have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which can lead to various challenges in personal and professional life, including mood disorders, substance abuse, work-related difficulties, relationship problems, and struggles with attention, executive function, and working memory.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Facts

• Approximately 10 million adults have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• In early adulthood, ADHD may be associated with depression, mood or conduct disorders, and substance abuse.
• Adults with ADHD often face difficulties in work and personal life due to symptoms.
• Many have inconsistent performance at work or in their careers.
• Difficulties with day-to-day responsibilities are common.
• Relationship problems can arise due to ADHD-related challenges.
• Chronic feelings of frustration, guilt, or blame may be experienced.
• Pople with ADHD may struggle with maintaining attention, executive function, and working memory.
• Deficits in executive function can significantly affect academic and career success.
• Executive function is essential for prioritizing and managing thoughts and actions.
• Issues with executive functioning can lead to difficulty completing tasks and forgetfulness.

Source: Chadd Understanding ADHD

How is ADHD Diagnosed Video

What Is ADHD Time Blindness?

In other words, does ADHD affect the perception of time?, Why do people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder perceive time differently or feel that time passes more slowly?

Time blindness is a term used to describe one of the common challenges experienced by people with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). It refers to a difficulty in accurately perceiving and managing the passage of time. People with ADHD often struggle to estimate the passage of time, which can lead to problems with time management such as punctuality and meeting deadlines.

ADHD Does Affect the Perception of Time

To answer the question, yes, ADHD does affect the perception of time, and people with ADHD may experience time differently or perceive it as slower or faster than others. There are several reasons for this:

1. Attention Difficulties: ADHD is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. People with ADHD may find it challenging to sustain their focus on tasks, making it harder to keep track of time while engaged in an activity.

2. Time-Blind Intensity: When someone with ADHD is highly interested or hyper-focused on something they enjoy, they may lose track of time completely. This intense engagement can lead to hours passing without them realizing it.

3. Problems with Time Estimation: ADHD can impair the ability to accurately estimate time. Tasks might take longer to complete than anticipated, leading to a sense of always being behind schedule.

4. Executive Function Deficits: Executive functions are cognitive processes responsible for planning, organizing, and managing time. In ADHD, these functions are often impaired, contributing to difficulties in setting priorities and sticking to schedules.

5. Time Bending Under Stress: Under stress or pressure, some people with ADHD may experience a phenomenon known as time “bending,” where they perceive time as either slowing down or speeding up. This phenomenon can add to the challenges of managing time effectively.

It’s important to note that not everyone with ADHD experiences time blindness in the same way. The impact of ADHD on time perception can vary from person to person, and some people may develop coping strategies to mitigate these challenges.

Why Do People With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Experience Difficulties With Sensory Overload?

Sensory overload, also referred to as information overload, can involve excessive noise or visual stimulation.Sensory overload can be caused by various factors, such as specific textures, noises, or smells. When someone experiences overstimulation, which can occur in individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, they may feel:

• Agitated
• Anxious
• Confused
• Exhausted
• Frustrated
• Irritable
• Overwhelmed
• Panicked
• Stressed
• Unable to Focus

Sensory overload can make it difficult to concentrate and perform effectively, and it can be extremely overwhelming, severely hindering someone’s daily life. If you are experiencing sensory overload, it is important to find strategies that work for you and to seek help if you need it.

Here Are Some Strategies That May Help With Sensory Overload:

• Close your eyes and focus on your breathing.
• Practicing Mindfulness
• Put on headphones and listen to calming music.
• Remove yourself from the situation if possible.
• Taking regular breaks
• Take a walk in nature.
• Take deep breaths and try to relax.
• Talk to a friend or family member about what you are going through.
• Talking to a Therapist or Counselor
• Using Aromatherapy
• Wearing Noise-Canceling Headphones

Your Sensory Health Matters Video

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Overstimulation

ADHD Facts

• Sensory overload is when the brain is bombarded with too much information from the five senses, making it difficult to process it correctly.
• Overstimulation can occur in anyone, but it may be heightened in individuals with ADHD or other conditions.
• Overstimulating environments, with flashing lights, loud music, and many people talking, can lead to feeling “stuck” and a strong urge to escape the situation.
• Symptoms of overstimulation may include sensitivity to certain textures, difficulty focusing, aversion to certain flavors or textures in food, and feelings of stress or anxiety.
• Structural differences in the brain, particularly white matter, may play a role in sensory processing difficulties and ADHD.
• Overstimulation can interfere with attention and flexible thinking, making it challenging to cope with changes or unexpected situations.
• Overstimulation and hypersensitivity are related but distinct; hypersensitivity results in consistent strong reactions to specific stimuli, while overstimulation occurs during periods of stimuli overwhelm.
• Traditional therapies like occupational therapy, sensory integration therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy may benefit individuals dealing with overstimulation and ADHD.
• Strategies to manage overstimulation include identifying stimuli that overwhelm you and avoiding them when possible, having a plan for managing symptoms during overwhelming situations, and practicing relaxation techniques.
• Building a support network and taking time to rest and recover after experiencing overstimulation can also be helpful.

It is important to be understanding and supportive of people who experience overstimulation, as it can be a difficult and distressing experience for them.

Source: Psych Central The Link Between ADHD and Overstimulation

My Sensory Overload Today

In the video, I shared my personal experience with sensory overload earlier today. I isolate myself from the world all the time, but I decided to try to leave my apartment. There is a church gathering that meets in the parking lot across from my apartment building. Occasionally, I force myself to leave and go participate. I am friendly with a few of the people there, and it is important for me to get out from time to time.

When I got there, music was playing on a Bluetooth speaker. I had a nagging feeling that it might become a problem, but I wanted to try and socialize instead of hiding away and isolating myself again. Someone I knew arrived on his scooter, and we started a conversation. Then another friend joined us. I thought to myself, “Okay, I can handle this!” Oh boy, I spoke too soon!

Several other people started to gather, and there were multiple conversations going on around me. Someone 2 seats to my left was talking to another person several seats to my right. There were so many cross conversations and that music! Then some children came and were just kids playing, but I was starting to perspire. Then it happened! Someone asked them to turn the music up louder, it was already too loud for me to be comfortable.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Sucks!

I tried to breathe through it, thinking I can do this, don’t cave in Greg. I desperately wanted to not be an isolating hermit, even if it was just for an hour or so that the group met. Nut sensory overload had a different idea for me and I just couldn’t deal with all the competing sounds and music, the cross conversations, the…… I am getting dizzy just recalling the incident.

So, needless to say, I just wasn’t able to handle all that stimuli and I had to leave, well more of a retreat, run away sensation. So off I was, as fast as my wheelchair could carry me, back to the confines (and safety) of my apartment. That in itself is not the safe haven it used to be. But that is a story for another day.

I hope you enjoyed today’s content. See you tomorrow, and remember:

TAKE CARE OF YOUR MIND!

Check Out Some of My Other Articles About ADHD!