What is ADHD? What causes it? How does it affect the brain and what can we do about it?
One of the biggest questions about ADHD is “Is it even real?” The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports it to be one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders that affects neurodevelopment. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental “problem” in the brain. They way the brain develops is called neurodevelopment. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder where the brain has a hard time developing to it’s full potential. Like many other disorders, they are genetic or familial in nature.
“Birds of a feather flock together” or “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree".'
So if a child has ADHD, it is very likely that others in the family whether diagnosed or not have ADHD too. While it can look different in every person, there are many common symptoms:
Inability to focus
Poor executive functioning
Short attention span (specifically work, school or home life)
Easily distracted
Issues with finishing tasks
Low impulse control
Diet and environment (discipline, screen time, exercise, etc.) can worsen these symptoms if poor and can improve or lessen the severity if healthy. Whole foods (not processed foods,) limiting screen time, limiting excessive video game use, and regular physical exercise or activity can improve the lives of those with ADHD and ADD, whether moderate or severe.
Unfortunately, the negative symptoms listed above do not go away. Remember ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The negative symptoms can progressively get worse and affect major aspects of their life:
Loss of job
Inability to complete school
Financial issues and stress
Eating disorders
Substance abuse
Loss of family or marriage