Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that predominantly affects children with symptoms appearing between age 3-12 years. Although ADHD was once considered a childhood condition, research shows in some cases adults can also experience some symptoms. In adults, ADHD works differently, frequently leading to challenges with time management, organization, and maintaining focus on daily tasks.
These all can affect an individual’s academic performance, professional efficiency, and social life. ADHD is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions. But still, some people have some queries regarding ADHD. This article will answer all your queries by covering symptoms of ADHD, causes of ADHD, diagnosis, and treatments of ADHD. We will also investigate in this article “Is ADHD treatable in Pakistan?” let’s go into detail.
Symptoms of ADHD
Mainly ADHD has three main symptoms inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals experiencing ADHD often present behavior that is inappropriate for their age and development level. Some symptoms to notice are as follows:
Lack of Focus:
- Difficulty in focusing on tasks
- Being easily distracted
- Struggling to organize tasks and activities
- Frequently losing items (cell phone, school books, keys)
- Face difficulty in following through on instructions
- Forgetful in daily activities
Excessive Activity:
- Inability to sit still for long periods
- Excessive talking and interrupting others
- Constant movement such as legs shaking
- Feeling restless
- Difficulty in playing
Impulsivity
- Acting or speaking without a second thought about the consequences
- Difficulty waiting for one turn on activities
The presentation of these symptoms could vary from person to person. Some will show predominant inattention while others will show hyperactivity, impulsivity, or a combination of both. Most importantly, the ADHD symptoms must be consistent for six months to make the final decision for the diagnosis made perfectly.
Causes of ADHD
However, finding the exact cause of ADHD always remains unclear. Several factors contribute to analyzing the root cause of ADHD.
Genetics
Many studies have shown that ADHD often runs in families. It has a strong genetic link. For children who are diagnosed with ADHD, there is a high risk of analyzing that their parents or siblings could also be sufferers of ADHD.
Brain structure and function
Neuroimaging studies have revealed the structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD. These differences may affect the frontal lobe which is responsible for attention, and maintaining the focus. Neurotransmitter, particularly dopamine plays a crucial role in navigating attention, behavior, and imbalances in chemicals which are often observed in individuals with ADHD.
Effects of Surroundings:
Many environmental factors such as exposure to cigarettes, tobacco, alcohol, or drugs could become causes of ADHD in children, while premature birth, low birth weight, and higher levels of stress during pregnancy may also contribute to developing ADHD.
Diet and Nutrition
Although diet is not a direct cause of ADHD, the researcher shows that inappropriate daily routine, consumption of non-hygienic products, or taking a diet of artificial colors could lead to depression which in turn is because of the cause of inactivity of the mind and forgetfulness of things. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, and iron make the individual tired and don’t let them focus on studies properly.
Diagnosis of ADHD
Diagnosis of ADHD is not as easy as we consider, it requires detailed eye and comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. He could be a psychiatrist, pediatrician, or psychologist. Do some research and always prefer those who have good background experience and behavior with patients. Diagnosis of ADHD can be done in the following ways:
- Clinical interviews
- Online mental health consultations
- Behavioral rating scales
- Observation
- Medical history
- Physical examination
Treatment of ADHD
The treatment of ADHD may vary among individuals depending on age, severity of symptoms, and other co-occurring conditions. ADHD can be treated in the following ways:
Medication
Medication plays an important role in ADHD symptoms, especially in moderate cases. Medications can be of two types stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medicine, like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine-based medications (Adderall) to increase the dopamine level in the brain which improves overall functionality and attention.
On the other hand, when stimulants are not effective to use or have any side effects then non-stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine (Intuniv) are prescribed.
Behavioral therapy
Behavioral therapy commonly known as CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) is often recommended alongside medication. This therapy gave guidance to the individual on how they can effectively utilize their time, prioritize their tasks, and live a healthy routine. Parents also take training to help their children in managing ADHD to treat it from the root.
Educational support
Individual education plans(IEPs) or 504 plans could also benefit the children by giving extra time for tests, breaks during class, and often changing seating arrangements to minimize distraction. Teachers and school counselors can play a critical role in the whole treatment process.
Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments
Having a balanced routine where eating a diet rich in nutrients and doing physical activity regularly can do wonders in treating ADHD. While diet changes are not sufficient alone in treating ADHD reducing sugar and processed foods and ensuring adequate entail of omega-3 fatty acids is also important.
Is ADHD Treatable in Pakistan?
Yes, ADHD is treatable in Pakistan but with some challenges. Families seeking treatment for ADHD must face cultural stigma, lack of resources of a mental health professional, and limited access to medications. Some big cities provide access to ADHD Treatment in Pakistan.
Not everyone can visit out of the city for consultation, but don’t need to worry at all. Sehatyab in Pakistan is offering online mental health consultations for individuals who can’t commute to the clinics. Despite age, location, and gender anyone can book Online psychiatrists in Pakistan and seek help from mental health professionals. Parents can book their children’s appointments and take consultations in the comfort of their homes.
Our mental health professional will not only treat but find the root cause of ADHD and suggest treatment accordingly. Get customized consultation online by visiting a website email, or phone number. Our team will get in touch with you and guide you further.
Conclusion
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of children and adults worldwide including Pakistan. Because of a lack of awareness, parents could not analyze the symptoms and find treatment for their children. That’s why it remains with them until they grow up. It could not only affect their academic performance but damage their personality as well. This article was the complete awareness for everyone so they could understand the symptoms, causes, and treatments and offer help to someone beside there who needs help.
SehatYab is the leading platform for solving mental health issues, you can also book an appointment with SehatYab for deep diagnosis and treatment. Our mental health experts are certified and have a decade of experience in serving individuals who need help regarding any type of mental health problem.