Are You Born with ADHD or Do You Get It?
Known for years as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM) updated the designation for attention deficit disorders from ADD to ADHD in the 1990s.
Adding the ‘H’ into the name helped in some ways but ushered in other confusion—people mistakenly believed hyperactivity had to be present in order to make the diagnosis.
To clarify, the DSM’s guidelines divide diagnosis into three sub-types:
- ADHD – mainly inattentive type
- ADHD – mainly hyperactive/impulsive type
- ADHD – combined inattentive AND hyperactive/impulsive type
Do you or does someone you know struggle with inattentiveness—
- Experiencing difficulty giving attention to details; make careless mistakes at work, school or in other activities?
- Finding it hard to sustain attention at work, school or during activities; difficult to stay focused on conversation, in meetings or while reading?
- Having difficulty listening when spoken to because your mind runs elsewhere?
- Struggling to follow through, finish or complete tasks?
- Managing schedules and possessions; running late, disorganized, losing track of things?
Do you or does someone you know struggle with impulsivity—
- Often fidgeting, tapping hands or feet, squirming?
- Finding it difficult to remain still or in one place when it is required of you?
- Experiencing feelings of restlessness?
- Having difficulty engaging in and enjoying leisure activities?
- Acting recklessly without considering the consequences?
If you recognize some of the symptoms in your life or in someone you love, we understand, and we can help.
Call us at (888) 837-6577.
While research hasn’t determined what causes ADHD, we do know a few things that play a role—
There appears to be a family connection.
ADHD runs in families.
There are genetic characteristics that seem to be passed down.
If a parent has ADHD, their child has more than a 50% chance of having it.
If an older sibling has it, their younger sibling has more than a 30% chance of having it.
There appears to be a pregnancy connection.
Children born with a low birth weight, born premature, or whose mothers had difficult pregnancies have a higher risk of having ADHD. Studies show that women who smoke or drink alcohol while pregnant may have a higher risk of having a child with ADHD. Exposure to lead, PCBs, or pesticides may also have a role.
What Doesn’t Cause ADHD?
Although it’s been debated—and many moms have sworn by it—research doesn’t show a link between ADHD and eating too much sugar or watching a too much TV.
Although mom wasn’t entirely wrong—sugar and sedentary habits can lead to a great many other health concerns.
It is always a good idea to put down the Oreos, turn off the TV and go for a walk.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
There isn’t a specific ADHD test.
ADHD is diagnosed by medical and mental health professionals evaluating certain patterns or symptoms against the DSM’s criteria.
You may not know if it’s ADHD, but you know it’s difficult, frustrating, and misunderstood by others.
At Honey Lake Clinic, we can help you identify what you’re dealing with, and more importantly help you find relief.
Christ-centered care, by licensed and experienced medical and mental health professionals, offering faith-based treatment, encompassing your spiritual, physical and mental health—
