Top 10 Questions about ADHD Part 1

-Part 1-

Find out what it is, how it impacts you, and how to treat it.

  1. What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental (impairing brain and/or nervous system development) disorder and impacts one’s ability to maintain attention and/or increases impulsivity.

Those with ADHD have likely experienced issues with daily functioning and/or overall development in some significant way(s).

2. What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

Over the years ADHD has been referred to in different ways such as, ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). Though it has been a hard name to shake, ADD does not define all the symptoms.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-V), has renamed the disorder ADHD.

3. What are the possible negative impacts of ADHD?

As ADHD can significantly effect functioning and development, it may have serious negative impacts in many areas including:

  • academic (failure, delay)

  • relationship (family, friends, intimate partners, etc.),

  • mental health (depression, anxiety, etc.),

  • high risk behaviours (addiction issues-substance, process, sexual, physical health- accidental injury, etc.),

  • occupation (transient employment, job loss), and sleep.

4. How is ADHD diagnosed?

ADHD is a complex disorder that occurs on a continuum, therefore, the assessment and diagnosis must also be multifaceted. This comprehensive and thorough evaluation needs to be completed by a qualified practitioner.

Both current and historical information, over various environments (academic, social, vocational, etc.) is gathered to determine a diagnosis of ADHD while ruling out other possible causal factors as well as identify if any co-morbid diagnoses are presented.

5. How prevalent is ADHD?

As per the DSM-V, ADHD has been found to be present in most cultures, impacting an overall 5% of children and 2.5% of adults.

The DSM-V also outlines that ADHD is a disorder that originates in childhood though does differ in ratios between genders.

ADHD impacts males more than females at a 2:1 in children and 1.6:1 ratio in adults.

Although ADHD may begin in childhood, symptoms can persist into adulthood however may manifest differently with development.

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