1. The Myth of ADHD
Somewhere between 5 and 20 percent of school age children have a diagnosis of ADD or ADHD. There is much controversy over the causes of ADHD; genetics, diet, artificial food coloring and dyes, food preservatives, nutritional deficiencies, or chemical exposure to name a few suggested causes. Many of the children we have labeled as hyperactive are not. We are merely responding to their symptoms or behaviors, which may be explained by other reasons such as those listed above. Because our society demands quick fixes, we reach for a quick diagnosis. As a result, the children who are labeled with ADHD are perceived as truly defective, and enter into adulthood feeling inadequate. We accept this as truth rather than examine the need to change our patterns of behavior. Despite this, it is true that many individuals truly have ADHD that is organically based.
2. Accurately Diagnosing ADHD
According to the information found in the Diagnostic Statistics Manual IV-Text Revised (DSM IV-TR), the essential features of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder involves a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity that is more frequently displayed and severe than is typically observed in individuals at a comparable level of development. The disturbance in attention must not be due to another diagnosis such as a mood disorder, anxiety disorder, personality or dissociative disorder.
3. Hyperactive Behavior
Individuals with hyperactivity are fidgety and can't sit in their seat when expected to do so. They have trouble participating in quiet activities in which they are expected to be still for any length of time. These symptoms seem to worsen when sustained attention or mental effort is required. The person with ADHD appears unable to resist fidgeting with their hands, tapping their hands or feet, or shaking their legs from nervous energy.
Many of these individuals appear impatient and impulsive. They struggle with delaying gratification, and may interrupt others in conversation or will blurt things out. The impulsivity may manifest in poor judgment, or decision making that may lead to risk taking behavior or negative consequences.
A person with ADHD may be able to work effectively or behave more appropriately in a one-on-one situation, under close supervision or in a new situation. Under these conditions, the signs of ADHD may minimize or be nearly absent.
4. Personality Traits Common to ADHD
People with ADHD may talk excessively and behave as if driven. They appear forgetful and are distracted over background noises or sounds. They may frequently loose things and be disorganized. This person may avoid tasks that require sustained or detailed attention or effort. A person with ADHD may appear obstinate, which may really be related to an inability to follow through on instructions involving multiple steps or procedures. It may seem that the person doesn't listen when directly spoken to, even in intimate relationships. The awareness of these personality traits can result in lowered levels of self-esteem.
5. Maximizing Your Strengths
Many creative and intelligent people have ADHD. This condition does not affect intelligence. When focused and directed appropriately, the energy of an individual with hyperactivity can be challenged into beneficial outcomes. Developing effective support systems with organizational supports and designed structure will enable the person to be most efficient. Knowing your strengths and working to improve weaknesses is necessary for everyone, with or without ADHD. Try to stay focused on your strengths and treat yourself with high regard and respect.
