Top 10 Questions about ADHD Part 2

WELL WORKSHOP PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

In today’s Blog : Part 2 of the top 10 questions asked about ADHD

Welcome back to our series on understanding ADHD! At Well Workshop Psychological Services, we want to make sure you have the clearest information possible.

In [Part 1], we covered the basics. Today, we’re diving into the final five most-asked questions to help you navigate the complexities of ADHD with ease.

Keep reading, it’s good stuff!

“6. Does ADHD come with other “friends”? (Co-occuring Conditions)”

It is very common for ADHD to not travel alone. In fact, more than two-thirds of children with ADHD have at least one other condition. Because of this, a detailed evaluation is super important to see the whole picture.

Common "co-morbidities" (other conditions) include:

• Behavioral Challenges: Such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) or Conduct Disorder.

• Learning & Mood: Learning disorders, Anxiety, or Mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar Disorder.

• Physical & Daily Life: Sleep disorders, Tics/Tourette Syndrome, and Disordered Eating.

• Addiction: Substance use or other addictive behaviors.

The most effective approach often combines:

• Pharmacotherapy: Managing core symptoms with medication (discussed with a medical provider).

• Psychosocial Treatments: Therapy to manage behavioral symptoms.

• Supportive Strategies: This includes education, behavior modification (like parent training), and school-based interventions.

7. How is ADHD treated?

Since every brain is unique, treatment is usually multi-modal—meaning we use a mix of tools tailored to you or your child.

8. Is there a cure or can you outgrow it?

There is no "cure" for ADHD, but it is very manageable.

While you don't necessarily "outgrow" it, symptoms often change or become less severe as you get older.

With the right treatment, people with ADHD can significantly improve their coping skills and overall well-being at any age.

9. What are the different types of severity levels?

ADHD isn't "one size fits all." There are three main ways it presents itself:

• Primarily Inattentive: Difficulty with details, following instructions, organizing tasks, and staying focused. People may seem forgetful or easily distracted.

• Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive: Lots of fidgeting, "on the go" energy, talking excessively, and difficulty waiting for turns.

• Combined Type: Meeting the criteria for both of the above.

Note: These can change! A child who is hyperactive may present as primarily inattentive by the time they are an adult.

Doctors also look at Severity:

• Mild: Just enough symptoms for a diagnosis with minor impact on daily life.

• Moderate: Falling somewhere in the middle.

• Severe: Many symptoms beyond the minimum, causing significant struggles at school, work, or home.

“10. What causes ADHD? Is it Biological? ”

Research shows a very strong connection to genetics and heredity, it often runs in the family.

Other factors that might play a role include:

• Pregnancy & Birth: Maternal stress, exposure to alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy, premature delivery, or low birth weight.

• Brain Injury: Specifically to the prefrontal regions of the brain.

A quick myth-buster: Things like high sugar intake, too much screen time, or poor behavior management do not cause ADHD, though they can certainly make the symptoms feel worse (aggravate them).

FAQ

Need more support? If you have more questions or want to explore how we can help you thrive, reach out to us at Well Workshop Psychological Services. We’re here to help you understand your brain and build a life that works for you!