ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a very well-known condition. It’s estimated that just over 4% of adults in the United States have ADHD. As it is oftentimes the case in our society, sufferers are told that the only solution available is to take prescription medication. However, this is a narrow view, and it's a false one. Just as with other disorders, a one-size-fits-all approach is not necessarily appropriate for everyone. In fact, there are several options for treating ADHD, including non-drug options—from lifestyle changes to therapeutic approaches such as neurofeedback. If you are interested in natural treatments for ADHD, [...]

ADHD and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria; together these two make a painful pair. And if you have ADHD, you could be feeling the pain of this common ADHD symptom cluster and it could be rearing it's head in your relationship. But first, imagine what it's like growing up with ADHD. You get negative attention from teachers and coaches. Other kids seem to be able to easily grasp things that you struggle with. Loved ones and peers get fed up with some of your limitations. You grow to expect that others will find you lacking. The sense of being different grows as you [...]

It seems as if the words “unsafe behavior” and “teens” should go hand-in-hand. After all, who doesn’t have a story from their youth when they took an unnecessary risk or made a poor decision. This is particularly true when we talk about ADHD and teens. That’s all part of growing up and making the transition from childhood to being an adult. However, when it comes to ADHD and teens, unsafe behavior takes on a whole new meaning. This can be a huge concern for parents. Of course, you want your teen to have fun and do things they enjoy. At the same [...]

Millions of children and teens in the U.S. are diagnosed with ADHD. In fact, it’s become a very common diagnosis, and much has been written about the condition and how it affects kids. Certainly, having attention issues and being prone to distraction and impulsivity is problematic in our society. Dealing with these problems can make it really hard to be successful in school or work. Moreover, behavior that’s common with ADHD can be misinterpreted by others who apply rigid standards of behavior. Many people mistakenly believe that medication seems like the obvious solution. However, it is necessary to take a more [...]

“How could you forget… again?!” “Is it really that hard to pay attention?” “You are such a failure.” These are harsh words toward anyone. But when you struggle to manage your ADHD, they are not uncommon to direct toward yourself as well. Feeling like a failure often goes hand-in-hand with ADHD. You always feel like you’re “dropping the ball,” so to speak. Plus, you get constant reinforcement from other people, even those whom you care about, that you just don’t measure up. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Consider these constructive tips for managing your ADHD. 1. Take an Inventory [...]

Much has been written about how ADHD is a beneficial and positive trait, and that’s true. Many people who are creative and successful have had ADHD. However, there is another side to ADHD—the side that damages relationships. Symptoms such as impulsivity, distractedness, and having a lot of energy can be draining on the friends, family, and spouse of a person with ADHD. This is especially true if the person hasn't yet been diagnosed with the condition. Their loved ones will likely see these behaviors but not understand it's part of a bigger picture. Consider how certain aspects of ADHD can damage relationships, and what [...]

You understand that parenting a child with ADHD has both its own challenges and rewards. It’s great seeing them absorbed in the things that they love to do. Their spontaneous energy and enthusiasm are just contagious. This is true not just for you, but also when you see them interacting with other children their own age. However, you also know that having ADHD isn’t easy, and that is a big reason why you want to be supportive. If you have a child diagnosed with ADHD, consider some parenting tips can be useful for providing support. 1. Learn as Much as You can [...]

  Why Do Some Seek ADHD Treatment Without Medication? There are many reasons why you might be looking for ADHD treatment that goes beyond taking psychiatric drugs. Here are some of the reasons my clients have shared with me: Limited efficacy of ADHD drugs ADHD drugs wore off Disturbing and uncomfortable side effects of meds Worried about long term damaging effects of medicine on brain ADHD meds did not fix relationship problems with friends and family After trying medications, they learned that they still needed to learn emotional regulation skills Wanted to improve executive functioning skills   And other clients are [...]

"Treatment For ADHD is Essential." I said this recently to a father I work with, "Dan". He is a long term client, and a loving, hard working family man. About three months ago, his teen age son was diagnosed as having ADHD. Consequently, that news terrified him and worry has gripped him ever since. Dan worries that his son won't be okay. He feels guilty that he did not have his son evaluated sooner. And as a devoted dad, he poured over books and articles attempting to get himself up to speed and all things ADHD. But the more he read, [...]

Anxiety and ADHD are two common issues that many people struggle with. Both make it difficult to navigate our modern world. For example, with ADHD, it can be hard to sit still in class or stay in front of your desk at work. Or, when you suffer from anxiety, there are many triggers that you must face daily. Sometimes it’s even possible to have both conditions at the same time. Knowing the difference between ADHD and anxiety is important, especially if you or someone you know is experiencing behaviors you can’t explain. Otherwise, you could be getting treatment for the wrong [...]