ADHD: Causes, symptoms and effective treatment options
ADHD: what it is and how it affects life
ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and is a neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs primarily in childhood.
ADHD is characterised by a cross-domain pattern of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. An unfavourable temperament can trigger ADHD as early as infancy and stabilise into early adolescence, with possible effects into adulthood.
Recognising ADHD symptoms: A comprehensive overview
Symptoms appear in childhood and, if left untreated, persist into adulthood for most sufferers. However, the symptoms can change over the course of a person's life. While hyperactivity decreases into late adolescence and adulthood, inattention, impulsivity, impatience, perplexity and aggressive behaviour increase, which can be very stressful for those affected. Untreated ADHD can have a variety of consequences, ranging from poor school performance to frequent conflicts and later career problems.
How does ADHD develop? Focus on causes and risk factors
The development of ADHD is primarily due to genetic factors. These have the greatest influence on the development of the disorder, with the heritability of genes playing a role of around 76%. Neurochemical factors also influence the development of ADHD, as sufferers often have an underactive dopaminergic transmitter system. This system affects the urge to move, emotional regulation and motivation.
Biological risk factors can also play a role. These include pregnancy and birth complications, as well as food intolerances and metabolic disorders. In addition, various environmental factors can act as triggers or amplifiers of the disorder and contribute to its perpetuation.
The consequences of ADHD can include disorders of executive functions, which can result in impairments in reaction and behavioural inhibition, working memory, self-regulation, and action planning.
ADHD in the population: distribution, frequency and demographic differences
A comparison of different countries and cultures shows that around 4.6% of people are affected by ADHD. There is a clear difference between the sexes: boys and men are affected around three times more frequently than girls and women, with hyperactivity being the main symptom. Around 80% of those affected develop additional disorders over time, such as anxiety disorders, depression, learning disorders or sleep problems. It is therefore important to take the symptoms seriously and investigate them thoroughly.
ADHD diagnosis: How ADHD is correctly recognised
The diagnosis of ADHD begins with a detailed interview with the affected person and their environment, supplemented by questionnaires. Further steps include tests, behavioural observations and standardised questionnaires as well as internal and neurological examinations. The tests assess the child's intelligence, level of development, academic performance, concentration and neuropsychological functions.
We offer a free ADHD rapid test for children on our website. This test gives parents and guardians a rough assessment of whether further professional investigations may be necessary. The results of the screening serve as an initial indication of signs of ADHD, but are not a definitive diagnosis. At Neeuro and Mindtecstore, we value personal privacy, which is why all results remain completely confidential. Use the following link to go directly to the rapid test: ADHD test - fast, free and online - for children.
Treatment of ADHD: Which forms of therapy help?
Drug therapy for ADHD: effectiveness and side effects
Drug treatments are used for severe symptoms with significant functional impairment and psychological distress. Psychostimulants are used to inhibit the reuptake of dopamine and noradrenaline. However, drug treatment is only used as a supplementary form of therapy if behavioural therapy programmes do not have a satisfactory effect. Over 70% of all ADHD children are responders, i.e. they respond to treatment as expected. A combination therapy of neurofeedback and other cognitive behavioural therapy approaches is optimal.
Cognitive behavioural therapy and neurofeedback for ADHD: methods and prospects of success
In addition to the very well-evaluated cognitive behavioural therapy using neurofeedback, self-instruction training, self-management procedures and psychoeducation are also used. The aim of neurofeedback is to teach patients to gradually gain control over their electrical brain activity. The aim is also to train a reduction in theta waves and an increase in beta waves in the EEG.
Thanks to advanced technology and the use of neurofeedback, it is now possible to tackle symptoms at an early stage and offer relief to those affected! Discover here under the category "Neurofeedback" numerous technological aids for your everyday life! Under: https://www.mindtecstore.com/en/neurofeedback
More about ADHD
Author: Maria Sophie Bieschke, last updated from 08.08.2024
