pathoscribe

Written by Srivalli Adarapu | Art by Maya Wen 

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) refers to a neurodevelopmental disability beginning in the childhood stages and spanning into adolescence and adulthood. It is associated with impulsivity, a lack of attention, and hyperactive behavior. Between 2016 and 2019, the CDC reported around 6 million children aged 3 to 17 being diagnosed with ADHD. The prevalence of this disorder makes it crucial to develop a deeper understanding of this disorder and overcome the stigma associated with it. 

Although it is typical for children to struggle with concentration and remaining attentive, many children consistently exhibit this behavior and potentially have ADHD. Those experiencing ADHD generally display a lack of attention by struggling to stay on task and easily being distracted, for instance. ADHD also commonly results in impulsive and hyperactive behavior, such as inadvertently oversharing and interrupting others in the middle of conversations. ADHD symptoms generally manifest in childhood during elementary school years, uniquely in each affected individual. 

While symptoms carry on into adolescence and adulthood, they also undergo changes. For instance, impulsivity and hyperactivity are most common throughout childhood but tend to diminish through age. However, struggles with attention and restlessness typically continue on into adulthood. Difficulty maintaining focus and completing tasks can often result in feelings of worthlessness and self-deprecation. ADHD challenges often coincide with anxiety and depression, making them common comorbidities.

Psychiatrists and mental health professionals diagnose and treat ADHD after comprehensive evaluation. Unfortunately, undiagnosed individuals that struggle with ADHD or those who are diagnosed during adulthood miss out on receiving treatment interventions.

Under-diagnosis often occurs because of either misinterpreting symptoms, gender differences in ADHD symptoms, or even mental health stigmas that prevent individuals from seeking diagnosis. ADHD symptoms may frequently be mistaken for those of other conditions like anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders, preventing an accurate diagnosis of ADHD. Additionally, differences in symptoms between females and males could lead to misdiagnosis. Hyperactivity commonly manifests mentally for females in contrast with the physical hyperactivity commonly seen in males. This distinction can obscure symptoms in females, resulting in fewer diagnoses compared to males as demonstrated by the statistical differences with 13% of males and 6% of females receiving diagnosis of ADHD according to CDC. 

Although the definitive causes for ADHD remain unknown, research proves that genetics significantly influence ADHD cases. Other environmental factors such as pregnancy complications and brain injuries are also associated with ADHD. 

While a cure for ADHD does not exist, medications can help manage symptoms of ADHD.  Stimulants help enhance attention and concentration by elevating levels of brain chemicals such as dopamine. These medications, however, can come along with side-effects if used without moderation. Non-stimulant medications also help alleviate symptoms by gradually boosting attention and focus while mitigating impulsive and hyperactive behavior. Other coping mechanisms include consuming coffee or other caffeinated products as they alleviate hyperactivity by increasing dopamine levels. 

Despite the association of social media with shorter attention spans and misconceptions of it amplifying ADHD symptoms, it has actually been beneficial by raising awareness of ADHD. Many affected by ADHD utilized platforms such as Tiktok and Instagram to share their personal experiences, effectively increasing awareness about the disorder. Social media has enabled many to identify with potential ADHD symptoms, allowing them to seek diagnosis and access essential treatment. It is paramount to continue raising public awareness of ADHD to allow them to receive necessary treatments to cope with their condition. 

As ADHD continues to impact an increasing number of individuals, it’s necessary to overcome the stigma and misconceptions associated with this condition. ADHD is more than a deficit-disorder! PubMed Central’s study of the silver linings of ADHD reveals the positive aspects coming along with ADHD, such as creativity, curiosity, resilience. ADHD also does not make one less intelligent or less talented. In fact, many famous individuals such as Simone Biles, an exceptional gymnast, and Emma Watson, renowned for acting as Hermione Granger in Harry Potter, have ADHD. Together, let’s break down the stigma and misconceptions surrounding ADHD and foster neuro-inclusivity!

Works Cited: 

Nordby, Emilie S et al. “Silver linings of ADHD: a thematic analysis of adults’ positive experiences with living with ADHD.” BMJ open vol. 13,10 e072052. 3 Oct. 2023, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072052

“What Is ADHD?” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 27 Sept. 2023, http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html. 

Elmaghraby, Rana, and Stephanie Garayalde. “What Is ADHD?” Psychiatry.Org – What Is ADHD?, June 2022, http://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd.