Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder started as a way to diagnose “unruly children that would not mind their parents or teachers”. Research for ADHD started in 1902 by a British pediatrician. Sir George Still found that some children were affected with “an abnormal defect” that still were highly intelligent. Over the years ADHD has changed its face many times with research. What was used to calm down children and make them behave, has become a way to help people of all ages to change the misconception of what ADHD is, distinguish the different symptoms, and treat them accordingly while learning how to function better in their everyday lives.
The essential indicators of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Some people will have all the symptoms simultaneously, while others will have only one at a time that can change in different frequencies.
Inattention
- Strays off task
- Unable to concentrate
- Disorganized
- Lacks steadfastness
Hyperactivity
- Fidgets
- Taps
- Talks excessively
- Constantly moving
- Cannot sit still during important functions such as meetings, church, or work
Impulsivity
- Needs instant gratification
- Socially invasive
- Hasty actions
- Constantly interrupts conversations
- Makes decisions without considering the consequences
ADHD can start as early as the age of three. Symptoms of ADHD will continually change throughout a person’s life and can progress into different levels of acuteness for everyone. In younger kids, the hyperactivity and impulsiveness are more prominent which will usually filter into inattentiveness when they start going to school making academics a struggle. During the teen years the hyperactivity will calm down and inattentiveness, along with restlessness, will appear to create antisocial behaviors and difficulty maintaining relationships. Adolescents with ADHD may start abusing alcohol and drugs during this time to cope with feeling different or like an outcast.
As adults continue to feel the persistent effects of ADHD, they are 5 to 10 times more likely to have a substance abuse disorder than someone that does not have ADHD. Since alcoholism and ADHD runs in families, there is a susceptibility of having both due to sharing common genes. 25 percent of persons that are being treated for alcohol and drug addiction have also been diagnosed with ADHD. Those who have not been determined to have ADHD have a higher risk of addiction because they do not have a way to relieve the symptoms that they are experiencing.
There is help for people with ADHD. Getting educated and receiving medical assistance can give a person a chance to gain their full potential. Adjusting to life changes with ADHD can be managed through the guidance of healthcare professionals.
Serenity Oaks Wellness Center is 5-week treatment program that can help someone who struggling with drugs and alcohol to find sobriety. Our qualified staff of nurses, doctors, therapists, and counselors can create an individualized plan to show our clients how to live a life in recovery.
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855-652-1683
