Print Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that affects your attention and behavior. This is partly due to brain differences in development, brain structure and brain activity. ADHD has three different subtypes, focusing either on attention deficit (commonly referred to as ADD), hyperactivity/impulsivity, or a combination of both. ADHD occurs in 1 out of 20 adults and in 1 out of 10 children. It is more common in males, but in women, it often goes unnoticed because it manifests differently.
The core symptoms of ADHD
The core symptoms of ADHD can be divided into three categories. Some are also related to childhood:
- Attention deficit
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- Missing details or making easy mistakes
- Difficulty in sustaining attention
- Others feeling like you’re not listening when spoken to directly
- Trouble following instructions or completing tasks
- Difficulty with organization and planning
- Struggling with tasks that require mental focus
- Frequently losing things
- Being easily distracted
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- Hyperactivity
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- Difficulty staying seated
- Frequently getting up in situations where you should remain seated
- Running or climbing excessively in inappropriate situations
- Difficulty engaging in quiet play or leisure activities
- Often being “on the go” or appearing restless
- Talking excessively
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- Impulsivity
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- Acting quickly without thinking about the consequences
- Blurting out an answer before a question is completed
- Others finding you annoying or feeling like you intrude on them
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Other notable characteristics
Not all of these symptoms apply to everyone with ADHD, but there are several situations or consequences that may be recognizable. These can include intense emotional reactions due to overstimulation or difficulties in processing negative events. Additionally, there is often a strong need for variety and challenges, leading to engaging in multiple activities or never doing the same thing for long. Another occurrence is hyperfocus, where someone becomes extremely focused on a task, becoming insensitive to internal or external stimuli (such as hunger or their phone) or losing track of time. It’s also common for individuals with ADHD to develop low self-esteem due to persistent difficulties.
Comorbidity and treatment
ADHD can be accompanied by behavioral problems, anxiety, depressive symptoms, sleep problems, or learning disabilities such as dyslexia or dyscalculia. There is also an increased susceptibility to addiction. Sedatives can be attractive as they reduce restlessness, while stimulants help improve concentration. Eating disorders and personality issues are also more common. Additionally, there is a significant overlap with autism, leading to misdiagnosis at times.
The preferred treatment for ADHD is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, possibly combined with medication. Within the treatment, the focus may be on addressing overstimulation, skill training, and self-esteem.
Sources
- Vink, S. (2021). Cognitieve gedragstherapie bij volwassenen met ADHD. Handleiding voor therapeuten. BSL.
- Vink, S (2021). Los van de chaos. Werkboek voor cliënten. BSL. https://www.ggzstandaarden.nl/zorgstandaarden/ADhD/
