ADHD 101
ADHD is a commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition. This means that symptoms exist throughout the lifespan, but may vary in severity and presentation across the lifespan.
There are three presentations of ADHD:
Inattentive Type: Symptoms are predominantly inattentive in nature (for example, difficulty focusing or following directions). In the past, this was diagnosed as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). But - fun fact - ADD has not been a diagnosable disorder since 1987.
Hyperactive/ Impulsive Type: Symptoms are predominantly hyperactive and impulsive in nature (for example, inability to sit still, excessive talking and interrupting of others).
Combined Type: When several inattentive and hyperactive/ impulsive symptoms are present.
Gender Differences in ADHD
Researchers and medical providers used to think that symptoms of ADHD were more common in boys than girls. However, we have since realized that in actuality, boys are more commonly diagnosed with hyperactive/ impulsive or combined presentations.
Girls commonly have inattentive presentations, and because these symptoms are less disruptive to teachers and parents (think of somebody lost in their thoughts and daydreaming), they may be more likely to “slip through the cracks”. However, we know that ADHD is present in all genders.
ADHD Across the Ages
There is a common misconception that kids grow out of ADHD. However, this is not the case, as the disorder is neurodevelopmental. What we do see is that the nature and severity of symptoms may change as one ages, and this is often because people develop compensatory strategies to manage symptoms as they grow. Symptoms may be less distressing or problematic as people learn to adapt, but life changes like a new school or job can present new barriers that make symptoms harder to manage again.
Helpful Strategies for Managing Symptoms of ADHD
Create routines and habits: Having visual cues and reminders of these habits, or sequences of tasks, can also be helpful. For example, it can be helpful for younger kids to have pictures of morning tasks on the wall (i.e., get dressed, brush teeth, put on your coat and shoes). This allows them to become re-oriented to the task at hand if they get distracted by something. Sometimes pairing these tasks with pre-set timers on an Alexa device can also be helpful, because it can cue them to check-back with the list if distracted.
Provide clear and simple instructions: Often, kids with ADHD have trouble remembering and completing several tasks at a time. Instead of saying: “Hang up your coat, put your backpack away, wash your hands, and set the table,” try providing one or two instructions at a time. If the tasks occur daily, consider creating a visual (pictures or list) as an aide (see above). It is also important to ensure that your child is paying attention when you are giving instructions. This may include making eye contact, touching their arm, and getting down to their level.
Be specific with instructions: Often, we tell kids to clean their rooms. This may be successful with some kids, but with younger kids or those with symptoms of ADHD, this may not be specific and clear enough for success. It can be helpful to create specific tasks for them to accomplish (e.g., make your bed, pick up the toys from the floor and put them in the toybox, put your dirty clothes in the laundry basket, etc).
Provide consistent reinforcement when tasks are completed and expectations are met: This will increase the likelihood of the positive behaviors continuing, and can take the form of praise or physical/tangible rewards. A mix of both types is often the most effective. Additionally, kids with ADHD are often receiving negative feedback at home and school (“don’t touch that”, “sit still”, etc). This can eventually affect their self-esteem and self-perceptions, so making a conscious effort to “catch them when they’re good” and praise the positive behaviors that you see can be important.
ADHD symptoms can make it tough for you and your child to navigate life at home and at school. However, with the right treatment and behavioral strategies, your child can learn to thrive by overcoming barriers and building their personal strengths.
If you and your child could benefit from more guidance on behavioral strategies to manage ADHD symptoms, talk with your therapist about your options.
