Almost 1 out of 10 children in the United States suffers from Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and it’s the most prevalent mental disorder in children within the US. Moreover, these children show symptoms such as lack of attention, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity. That’s why they find it hard to build interest in any athletic activity or sports. However, by playing video games, children with ADHD can educate themselves while improvising their eye-to-hand coordination. Additionally, they can also develop communication skills by connecting with like-minded kids.
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Another factor that connects ADHD and perfectionism is having obsessive behavior. Many people who are diagnosed with ADHD do feel distracted while working on a specific project. But they do hyperfocus where they put extra effort while running a simple errand. That’s why people with ADHD work on a single task for days, even for months without having boredom.
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During low intensity, or dull, riding, drivers with ADHD appear to be particularly susceptible to diversions. Hard and highway driving, where excessive speed might increase the risk of major accidents, are examples of boring driving. Changing music channels, doing make-up, smoking, drinking, conversing with some other person in the car, and thinking are all examples of diversions.
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The Role of Adaptive Thinking in ADHD: Understanding the Link and Benefits
If you can recognise unexpected situations, quickly calculate plausible options and shortlist the best one, then congratulations, you are an adaptive thinker. Adaptive thinking is the ability to adapt to change soon. This trait is useful in dynamic environments where decision-making needs to be rapid. Solving problems and coordinating with others comes naturally to adaptive thinkers.
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Self-regulation abilities are frequently challenged in people with ADHD. They may make statements in the heat of the moment without considering if they would insult someone’s feelings. When their hyperactivity causes others to be disturbed, people typically feel bad since they didn’t want to hurt anyone.
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Have you ever wondered how ADHD plays with a person’s mental health? What is the key factor that leads to emotional disturbance, mood instability, and lack of focus in ADHD patients? We are here with all the answers!
In simple words, the major factor affecting an ADHD person’s mind is Dopamine. But what is the big deal about Dopamine and why does it drive ADHD’ers crazy?
According to research done in 1999, there was a 70% increase in Dopamine Transporter Density proteins (DTD) in adult patients with ADHD as compared to those without ADHD.
What is DTD and what does it have to do with Dopamine and ADHD? Let’s find out!
What is Dopamine?
Serotonin, Dopamine, and Norepinephrine are the main neurotransmitters that researchers believe play a major role in any mood or anxiety disorder. First of all, let’s have a clear concept about Dopamine as it’s the factor responsible for the considerable damage in ADHD.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter. A neurotransmitter, as the term suggests, transmits impulses or messages along with the set of neurons. Dopamine in our body is responsible for the transmission of messages that regulate mood, emotions, motivation, attention, and bring us a sense of pleasure and enthusiasm.
Relation of Dopamine with ADHD
Lacking dopamine means the loss of all the feelings derived by its action. And that’s exactly what happened with ADHD’ers. They don’t feel rewarded and can’t sense pleasure even upon stimulus. They have low self-esteem, lack social and management skills, can’t organize their thoughts, nor do they enjoy the happy moments to the fullest. All because of a tiny little hormone not performing well in their body.
In ADHD patients, this happens when too many proteins result in excess release of dopamine. These proteins, aka Dopamine Transporter Density proteins, are responsible for the release of a limited amount of dopamine in a healthy person. When in excess, they rapidly push Dopamine out of the brain leaving no time for it to perform its action.
Therefore, even though the dopamine levels might be high in blood but their low levels in the brain lead to the symptoms of ADHD. This is why researchers regard Dopamine as the sole factor driving ADHD’ers minds crazy.
ADHD’ers and Dopaminergic neurons
Even though almost all patients with ADHD have decreased levels of dopamine but not all patients with decreased Dopamine levels have ADHD. Confused much? Let’s make it simple!
According to recent research, many people with ADHD have a distortion in the gray cerebral cortex when seen under MRI. This gray cortex is a collection of nuclei dealing with our emotions, controlling attention, and focus. And these patients do not necessarily have a reduced amount of dopamine in their brains.
Moreover, some patients have the DAT1 gene mutation which increases the risk of developing ADHD. Therefore, checking for DTD or Dopamine is only done for screening purposes and is not the basis of diagnosis. Lack of dopamine might be the most common cause of ADHD according to research done to date. However, it is not the leading or the only factor accountable for Attention Deficit Disorder.
Research is still being done to find out more about dopamine and its relation to ADHD. It looks like an endless study but one thing is for sure since dopamine regulates mood and focus and ADHD patients lack these two things, we can claim that Dopaminergic neurons do play a very significant role in ADHD and related disorders. And is needed to treat ADHD patients.
Key factors affecting the brain of ADHD patients
To summarise it all, the following are the key factors taking a toll on the mental health of people with ADHD,
Low Dopamine levels
Increase in DTD proteins
Genetics, for example, mutations in the DAT1 gene
Structural changes in Gray matter of Frontal cortex, limbic system, basal ganglia
So far, these are a few known contributing factors to ADHD. No one knows the importance of dopamine more than the people entrapped in a mental disorder. This is why ADHD patients constantly seek Dopamine. And perhaps this is why their medications include tons of stimulants that stimulate the action of dopamine in their body. This then regulates their emotions and helps them focus better.
For example, Ritalin or methylphenidate is a drug that increases dopamine levels in the brain and helps reduce ADHD symptoms.
Who doesn’t like vacations? Even the sound of it brings a sense of joy within oneself. As much as we all enjoy our days off of work or school, it’s a gruesome thought for people with ADHD. ADHD patients do not get fascinated by the idea of Vacations and holidays. The thought of it is frustrating for them. However, that shouldn’t be the case!
Having ADHD or any other disorder shouldn’t stop you from living a meaningful life. You can still go out, sleep in a luxurious hotel, eat somewhere fancy, walk at the beach or play around with animals.
Don’t worry, we are here to help you out through the whole process. Let’s now discuss the best ideas for holiday destinations, what places should you consider, and why.
Best Holiday destinations for ADHD patients
Holidays bring happiness, uplift your mood, help you stay active, focused, and organized. Most importantly, Holidays help you learn the importance of precious time in this world. If you have ADHD, you must read through the following holiday destination and choose your preferred location in the end. Believe us or not but you deserve a mental break!
What holiday destinations should you consider visiting and why? Let’s now dive into the details!
Cruise or Resorts
Fancy resorts or Cruises, though might be a bit expensive but are one the best holiday destinations to invest in. A cruise or resort includes all sorts of fun activities that will keep you indulged. Hence, you can easily forget about negative thoughts and gloomy feelings.
Note: If you have kids with ADHD, make sure to choose a destination that has kid-friendly games and activities so that your child doesn’t feel left out and lonely.
Beach
No one can ever say no to sea-view, sunsets, and cold winds. A peaceful beach-side trip with family or friends is the perfect solution to your ADHD-consumed mind. Walking on the sandy surface feeling the cold breeze in the daylight of summers is the perfect definition of a peaceful Holiday.
Moreover, you can take your pet, toys, food, play a little and enjoy some family time there. This can help you calm down, stabilize your mood, and bring peace to your anxious mind.
Lively Cities
NYC, LA, Chicago, to name a few are popular places and the most vivacious destinations to visit at least once in a lifetime.
These cities have interesting attractions that instantly catch the eyes of a visitor. In addition, you get to meet new people, experience a different exposure, and enjoy your time at famous museums, galleries, parks, or streets.
Parks
Theme parks are probably the best option for children with ADHD. Your kids can enjoy fun-filled rides, win their favorite toys, meet their ideal characters, or keep themselves entertained by simply making new friends and playing with them.
Similarly, National parks or historical places are the perfect escape route for adults with ADHD. You can go hiking, enjoy boating, or find a peaceful spot to read your favorite book and savor some snacks with a beautiful view.
Zoos or Aquariums
If you and your family love animals, going to a place that has several animal species would be a great way to relax your mind. You will find your favorite animals living their best life and will get a chance to interact with them. This is a fun activity to include on your bucket list, especially if animals are the prime source of your happiness.
Farmhouse
Last but not least, a pool-side barbeque with family or friends under the moonlight after a long week is always a yes!
We suggest you book a farmhouse or an all-inclusive resort now, especially if swimming brings you peace or if you need to enjoy quality time with your family.
Things to keep in mind before packing and leaving for the dream destination
If you have ADHD, here are a few tips for you to help you stay organized and attentive throughout your journey:
Book a tour guide so that you don’t have to worry about missing out on important stuff during your Holiday. However, we know that most ADHD patients prefer personalizing their trip, if that’s what you would like to do as well, go for it!
Talk to different traveling agencies before opting for one.
Keep a map of your dream place.
Make a checklist of all the things before packing them up. Save this list for plans as well.
DO NOT FORGET YOUR MEDICATIONS!
Include your ADHD kids in the discussion when planning for a Vacation.
Most importantly, choose a place that is best suited for your mental peace. For example, if you like a calm environment, choose a destination that is quiet and peaceful.
There is no right time to plan a trip. Just declutter your thoughts, make a schedule, pack your bags, book your ticket, and fly to your favorite holiday destination.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition defined by extreme energy in the form of frequent and severe hyperactivity and attention deficits and impulsiveness. ADHD is a prevalent mental disorder in childhood, and it affects around 60percent of them throughout adulthood. ADHD in adults is linked to plenty of negative outcomes, including unemployment, crime, family conflicts, and accidents. The incidence of ADHD is predicted to be 3.4 percent in adults worldwide, with substantial variation among geographical areas while rates in young people are significantly higher.
Impulsivity:
The Phrase “Act before think” is usually referred to as impulsivity. In a person with ADHD, impulsivity is quite likely to persist into adulthood. Individuals with ADHD have impulsivity, which may be the cause of most of the impairment they experience in their everyday lives.
People who suffer from impulsivity are frequently irritable when it comes to standing in line. An individual with ADHD has temper tantrums, reckless behavior, they usually interfere with others’ discussions or games, for example, Indulging in dangerous, antisocial, or irresponsible behavior without considering the outcomes. Individuals with ADHD usually have problems controlling their emotions. Emotional distress adds to functional disability in ADHD. The ADHD symptom also had a weaker personality, in addition to a poorer quality of life. Low self-esteem has been seen in both childhood and adolescence.
Impulsive behavior is a crucial factor in the diagnosis of ADHA and understanding etiology, many people think of ADHD as a typical impulsive disorder. The phrase impulsivity covers a broad spectrum of behaviors and actions that are improper, immature, and frequently lead to unfavorable results. As a result, someone with ADHD is more inclined to disturb others or engage in risky behavior without thinking about the outcomes. Impulsivity can show up in a different way, such as a proclivity for drug abuse, coexistence with other impulsive disorders, and hyperactivity.
People struggle to complete even the simplest chores due to a lack of attention and easy distraction. Those who have been diagnosed with ADHD have a variety of daily challenges that they cannot manage without assistance.
Impulsivity is a human nature characteristic that may be simultaneously advantageous and destructive to our daily lives. The capacity to respond on impulse enables us to grasp a wonderful chance or make a bad judgment that we eventually regret. Although impulsivity can be seen as typical human behavior, it has been linked to mental problems such as ADHD, hyperactivity, drug misuse, and psychological disorders. It’s been proposed that impulsivity isn’t a one-size-fits-all trait and that elevations in various components of impulsivity might indicate distinct forms of ADHD.
Picking:
Skin picking disorder (SPD) is defined as scratching the skin regularly, causing tissue injury and significant suffering. People usually pick their skin for a variety of reasons. They might have suffered from a health problem like ADHD. Skin plucking and other repetitive habits are also prevalent indicators of ADHD.
Managing Picking and impulsivity in ADHD”
People with ADHD who are impulsive allow their first reactions to determine their behavior; they act on what they feel rather than what they think. It will take time and hard work to reduce impulsivity, but an individual can control it using different methods, one might be mindful meditation. This exercise encourages individuals to be attentive and conscious of themselves. Another practice that might help individuals to manage their emotions is martial arts.
Skin plucking and other repetitive habits are also prevalent indicators of ADHD. Skin picking conditions can result in open sores, lesions, and substantial mental suffering if left untreated. Due to their negative perceptions of their looks, individuals with skin disease may withdraw socially and avoid engaging with family members and friends. Determining triggers, treating the habit, and controlling the symptoms or psychological disorders are all treatments of skin picking disorder.
References
MALLOY-DINIZ, L., FUENTES, D., LEITE, W., CORREA, H., & BECHARA, A. (2007). Impulsive behavior in adults with attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder: Characterization of attentional, motor and cognitive impulsiveness. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society, 13(4), 693-698. doi:10.1017/S1355617707070889
Kessler RC, Adler L, Ames M, Demler O, Faraone S, Hiripi E, Howes MJ, Jin R, Secnik K, Spencer T, Ustun TB, et al. The World Health Organization Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS): a short screening scale for use in the general population. Psychol Med. 2005; 35(2):245–56. [PubMed: 15841682]
Kessler RC, Adler L, Barkley R, Biederman J, Conners CK, Demler O, Faraone SV, Greenhill LL, Howes MJ, Secnik K, Spencer T, et al. The prevalence and correlates of adult ADHD in the United States: results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Am J Psychiatry. 2006; 163(4): 716–23. [PubMed: 16585449]
Vingilis E, Mann RE, Erickson P, Toplak M, Kolla NJ, Seeley J, Jain U. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, other mental health problems, substance use, and driving: examination of a population-based, representative canadian sample. Traffic Inj Prev. 2014; 15(Suppl 1):S1–9.
Dogs have long been known as the most loyal companion one can own. They are sentimental, empathetic, and caring towards the owner. But can a dog help someone with a mental disorder? Is a family dog truly a solution to your family’s ADHD symptoms? Let’s find out!
It is a known fact that ADHD is more common in children than adults. According to research, around 6 million children in the US alone are diagnosed with ADHD or ADD and the cases are still rising. However, the good news is that we now have several treatment options to deal with ADHD symptoms. Can a dog be the answer to your ADHD symptoms? Read on to find out!
How can family dogs help relieve ADHD symptoms?
Dogs, as we know, have a very friendly nature which makes us all want to have at least one in our house. If you are suspecting ADHD in any family member, investing in a therapy dog might be the best idea for you and your family.
Following are a few benefits of owning a family dog while struggling through ADHD symptoms:
Keeps you occupied
People with ADHD tend to feel lonely even when surrounded by friends and family. Therefore, having a pet as an additional family member is always a good choice, best; if it’s a dog. Whenever you don’t feel like socializing much, you can play around with it, paying your goodbyes to the loneliness.
Helps you stay calm
We know how dogs keep us happy and cheerful all day long. They can help us stay calm and composed in the toughest of situations, sometimes; by testing our patience and other times simply by giving a warm hug.
Empower your self-esteem
Studies suggest that interacting with dogs strikes a sense of positivity in oneself. To test this, a randomized trial was performed to compare ADHD patients with family dogs to those without a dog, the results showed a positive change in behavior of the former group. Hence, having a dog around does strengthen your self-esteem preparing you to face the more difficult challenges in the future.
Helps you maintain a social life
People with ADHD find it difficult to stay connected with other people. Having a therapy dog around can help them learn the art of socializing, especially with other dog owners. Moreover, they reduce your stress level and help get rid of the impulsive behavior that may ruin one’s social life otherwise.
Teaches you management skills
This is probably the best thing you would learn from a dog. Organizing and managing are the two skills that usually people with ADHD lack. And what better way to learn it than by scheduling your dog’s routine?
From their playtime to evening walks, and breakfast to dinner, you are in charge of everything. It’s a huge responsibility, as well as a fun task to do every day. Moreover, it helps you stay organized in your life and focus better on important things that you otherwise might forget about.
Helps control your emotions
Being neurodiverse can affect one’s capability of thinking straight. But being around a dog and taking responsibility for petting one can strengthen your emotional stability severalfold. This way, children with ADHD can perform well academically, avoid negativity, and make better decisions in the long run.
As much as dogs love attention from their owners, they know how to give it back when the time comes. This is why dogs are the best option and an answer to your family’s ADHD symptoms. They know when and how to give you love and attention when you are in dire need of them.
What is the best dog breed for people with ADHD?
Dogs have qualified as true emotional support animals for ADHD patients after several studies and research. There are tons of dog breeds that you can opt for. It’s all up to your preference to find the best one for your family.
Here are a few shortlisted dog breeds that are capable of being the best choice to help alleviate ADD symptoms:
Labrador Retriever
Beagle
Golden Retriever
Cairn Terrier
Poodles
The best thing about owning a dog is that the need for medications subsides once you invest in a family dog. However, that’s not the case with all ADHD patients. Therefore, always consult your therapist before withdrawing any medications.
Business owners are often attributed to people with decent energy levels, who are willing to take risks, and who show adaptability in times of calamity.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition defined by extreme energy in the form of frequent and severe hyperactivity and attention deficits, as per the American Psychiatric Association (2013). It is primarily caused by mental “disinhibition” or a lack of constraint. ADHD affects around 8.4percent of infants and 2.5 percent of adults. ADHD is frequently detected in school children. It is more common in males than females, especially in school-going children.
Cause of ADHD
The underlying pathophysiology of ADHD is still unknown, but researchers have confirmed that the disorder is neurobiological and determined by genetic factors, with genetic makeup accounting for 60–75 percent of total cases. Even though ADHD seems to be quite persistent, the majority of teenagers continue to have symptoms into adolescence.
ADHD and work environment:
 ADHD is linked to “deficiencies” including responding without thinking, limited attention, and a lack of patience when faced with repetitive activities, people who exhibit such behaviour may struggle to meet the demands of a typical work setting. They choose activities that don’t need constant monitoring and allow them to work alone. Because of their impulsive nature, they are more likely to act without considering the outcomes, endangering their managers or colleagues. Their dissociative symptoms, which stem from a lack of inhibitory control, may make it difficult for them to engage in tasks that need continuous attention.
Individuals who are engaged in such behavior are more likely to have poor work performance and adverse effects in a workplace setting to become jobless. Even though they have greater intellectual levels, they are rarely seen in higher-ranking job positions.
ADHD and business ownership:
Economists have applauded such “disorganised people” for their potential to visualize and build innovative situations, breaking through odd business conventions and resistance. Individuals with ADHD may excel other individuals in various workplace settings, such as positions that require quick and creative decision-making, if they can build “adaptability” techniques to overcome their “deficiencies.” People with greater degrees of ADHD behavior but who have not been diagnosed positively for ADHD on a clinical scale are a better match for business ownerships, which boosts their entrepreneurial goals. When it comes to offering superior services, people with ADHD are typically attentive. Individuals with ADHD may be well-suited to running a small business. Their impulsive thinking and ability to take challenges make them remarkable businessmen.
People with ADHD are more interested in jobs that allow them to work autonomously. A high level of independence and autonomy is widely regarded as a universal motivator for new ventures and entrepreneurial goals. Business ownership not only blends well with ADHD behavior due to the lack of a structured and organized work environment, but it also necessitates qualities and talents that are typically linked with people who display ADHD behavior. The weaker inhibitory control attention – Deficit/hyperactivity has a variety of behavioral effects, including trouble focusing attention on a specific activity, and mind wandering. Though this may impede productivity in the workplace, especially in terms of “in-role efficiency,” a “unrestrained imagination” has been proven to be beneficial to innovative thinking.
Adults with ADHD are also better at occupations that demand to reason, accomplish tasks with more creativity, and have a higher motivation to generate new ideas. Adults with ADHD are quickly distracted when performing “boring, typical” activities, according to the APA, and tend to be more productive when working in new environments or engaging in tasks that they like. Adults with ADHD behavior are more inclined to seek occupational skills that enable them to employ their creativity because they appear to be more innovative and prefer non-repetitive tasks. At the same time, motivation for having entrepreneurial goals and pursuing an entrepreneurial venture is to create something new which distinguish business owners from non-business owners
There is evidence of successful entrepreneurs, for example, David, Neeleman (JetBlue Airlines’ founder), and Paul (Kinko’s founder) have Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder.
How can we help people with ADHD in their business careers?
We can help those individuals by raising awareness of what motivates and drives these individuals in their careers, as well as assisting them in choosing a career that is in line with their goals and capabilities.
References:
Barkley, R. A., & Murphy, K. (2010). Impairment in occupa-tional functioning and adult AD/HD: The predictive utilityof executive function (EF) ratings versus EF tests.Archivesof Clinical Neuropsychology, 25, 157–173.
de Graaf, R., Kessler, R. C., Fayyad, J., ten Have, M., Alonso, J.,Angermeyer, M., et al. (2008). The prevalence and effectsof adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD)on the performance of workers: results from the WHOWorld Mental Health Survey Initiative.Occupational andEnvironmental Medicine, 65(12), 835–842.
American Psychiatric Association. (2013).Diagnostic and sta-tistical manual of mental disorders: DSM V(5th ed.).Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.