ADHD IN AMERICA
National population surveys reflect an increase in the prevalence from 6.1% to 10.2% in the 20-year period from 1997 to 2016 - National Library of Medicine
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, including many of our clients.
Especially young males.
ADHD is often misunderstood and stigmatized, but it is a real and debilitating condition that can have a significant impact on a person's daily life.
In this response, I will attempt to describe what it is like to have ADHD, including its symptoms, challenges, and impact on daily functioning.
Here is everything you need to know about ADHD + ADD:
Symptoms of ADHD or ADD
ADHD is characterized by a pattern persisting of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.
There are three subtypes of ADHD:
1. predominantly inattentive
2. predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
3. combination of both
Predominantly inattentive ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, disorganization, and procrastination.
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as fidgeting, restlessness, impulsivity, and interrupting others.
Combined ADHD involves a combination of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
These symptoms are very common in the clients we work with, which is why we use a unique combination of modern success psychology with ancient eastern philosophies.
Challenges of having ADHD or ADD
One of the most challenging aspects of ADHD is difficulty with focus and concentration.
This can negatively affect many aspects of your life.
People with ADHD often have trouble sustaining attention on tasks, particularly those that are repetitive, mundane, or uninteresting.
They may become easily distracted by external stimuli or internal thoughts, and have trouble shifting their focus back to the task at hand.
This can make it difficult to complete assignments or projects, and can lead to procrastination or avoidance of tasks altogether. This is especially true in school.
Another common symptom of ADHD is impulsivity. People with ADHD may act without thinking, blurting out comments or interrupting others in conversations.
They may have difficulty waiting their turn or delaying gratification, leading to impulsive spending, risky behavior, or substance abuse.
Impulsivity can also lead to poor decision-making or difficulty considering the long-term consequences of actions.
ADHD STATS WITH ADOLESCENCE
Hyperactivity is a common symptom of ADHD, particularly in children. Children with ADHD may be constantly fidgeting, squirming, or running around, and may have trouble sitting still or staying quiet.
With the explosion of screen time and technological pressures and distractions, this has become a massive issue in the modern youth!
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ADHD affects around 6.1 million children aged 2-17 in the US, which is about 9.4% of children in this age range.
The prevalence of ADHD in teenagers is slightly lower than in younger children, but it is still a significant issue. In 2016, the CDC reported that around 3.3 million adolescents aged 12-17 in the US had been diagnosed with ADHD at some point in their lives.
This represents around 8.4% of adolescents in this age group.
The incidence of ADHD is higher in males than in females, with boys being around three times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls.
This gender disparity is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, with boys being more susceptible to the disorder due to their higher levels of testosterone and different socialization experiences.
The symptoms of ADHD can have a significant impact on a teenager's daily life, affecting their academic performance, social relationships, and emotional wellbeing.
Some common symptoms of ADHD in teenagers include:
Inattention: Difficulty paying attention, following instructions, and completing tasks.
Hyperactivity: Restlessness, fidgeting, and constantly being on the go.
Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, and engaging in risky behaviors.
These symptoms can be particularly challenging for teenagers, who are navigating the transition from childhood to adulthood and facing increasing academic and social pressures.
In addition to the impact on the individual, ADHD can also have broader societal and economic consequences.
The disorder is associated with a higher risk of academic underachievement, behavioral problems, and substance abuse, which can lead to lower employment rates and increased healthcare costs over the individual's lifetime.
The management of ADHD in teenagers typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and can be effective in reducing symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
However, medication alone is often not sufficient to address the complex challenges associated with ADHD, and behavioral interventions such as parent training, school-based interventions, and cognitive-behavioral therapy may also be necessary.
Overall, ADHD is a significant issue for many teenagers in the United States, with a high prevalence and a range of challenging symptoms that can have a significant impact on academic, social, and emotional functioning.
However, with the right interventions and support, many teenagers with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms and thrive in their personal and academic lives.
ADHD WITH ADULTS
In adults, hyperactivity may manifest as restlessness or an inner sense of agitation. This can make it difficult to relax or focus on tasks that require stillness and quiet.
In addition to these core symptoms, people with ADHD may experience a range of secondary symptoms and challenges.
For example, many people with ADHD struggle with time management and organization. They may have trouble prioritizing tasks or breaking larger projects into smaller, more manageable pieces.
They may also struggle with completing tasks in a timely manner, or may forget important deadlines or appointments.
Living With ADHD
People with ADHD may also struggle with social interactions.
They may have difficulty reading social cues or understanding the unwritten rules of social interaction, which can lead to social awkwardness or rejection.
They may also struggle with emotional regulation, experiencing intense emotions or mood swings that can be difficult to manage.
Finally, people with ADHD may experience a range of physical symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems.
These physical symptoms are often related to the stress and anxiety that can result from struggling with ADHD symptoms and trying to keep up with daily demands.
Living with ADHD can be challenging, particularly in a society that values productivity, efficiency, and focus.
People with ADHD may feel misunderstood, stigmatized, or judged by others who do not understand the nature of their condition.
They may struggle to fit in or find their place in social, academic, or professional environments, and may experience feelings of shame or low self-esteem as a result.
However, it is important to note that ADHD can also have strengths and positive qualities. Many people with ADHD are creative, innovative, and able to think outside the box.
Finding Support For ADHD
They may have a unique perspective on the world, and may be able to see connections and possibilities that others do not. With the right support, managing ADHD can be extremely helpful.
Many of the clients we work with have ADHD or ADD, especially young males.
We offer multiple ground breaking tools and techniques for managing ADHD in order to level up your life and reduce the negative symptoms that come along with ADHD.
If you are interested in learning more about what makes our coaching so effective for clients with ADHD -
If you want to see how our innovative coaching can dramatically improve joy, confidence, and clarity in your Life, simply apply here: