Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has seen some extreme scrutiny and criticism as a diagnosis. Children are constantly being diagnosed with ADHD. Some have blamed the digital, instant gratification world that children are being raised in. Other blame the chemicals, hormones, and pesticides in food. A lack of parenting and letting kids “be kids” has also come into the mix over the years. Common to the misunderstanding of different mental health disorders, there is a difference between what constitutes ADHD and what are examples of symptoms. For example, many people confuse stress with anxiety. Anxiety is a part of stress and vice versa, but the experience of stress is not necessarily an indication of an anxiety disorder. Likewise, impulsivity, fidgeting, high levels of energy, difficulty focusing, and being unorganized are common symptoms of ADHD. However, a child or even an adult who is impulsive, fidgety, energetic, distracted, and messy is not necessarily living with ADHD. At the least, ADHD can lead to a difficulty sitting still and focusing on single task. Many adults are living with ADHD and unaware that they have it. Forgetfulness, tuning out of conversations, having difficulty paying attention and other symptoms can be extremely problematic when trying to manage the responsibilities of adult life. Untreated, ADHD can lead to substance abuse, contribute to eating disorders, and cause other forms of mental distress.
Treating ADHD has found most of its success in the use of medications. Most often, ADHD medications are stimulant amphetamines. Non-stimulant ADHD drugs are available and are equally as effective for those who cannot take a stimulant. Medication is a foundation of treatment. Lifestyle therapies are helpful in managing the high energy of ADHD while creating management systems for living. Dietary changes geared toward supporting brain function are supported while a reduction in sugar and caffeine are encouraged. Regular exercise is extremely helpful for those with ADHD. Mindfulness and meditation is recommended in learning to make peace with hyper thinking. Creating systems of organization for all areas of life is extremely helpful for people with ADHD so they can manage their attention, their information, and their life. Lastly, treatments like biofeedback or neurofeedback have proven to be helpful in reducing the effect of symptoms of ADHD.
ADHD doesn’t have to make your life unmanageable. If you are struggling with an unmanageable life, there is help available. Spend time with us at The Guest House Ocala, a private residential treatment program for traumas, addictions, and related mental health issues. Call us today for information on life at the estate: 1-855-483-7800