ADHD Counseling

ADHD Assessment in Children

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Many symptoms can lead a parent to think his or her child has ADHD.  Some symptoms can mask themselves as anxiety or other stresses, but in some cases, the symptoms witnessed due directly correlate with ADHD.  ADHD is not the end of the world for your child, but it can be a major issue if it is not addressed.  It is extremely important for one’s child to receive the guidance and medication, if necessary, to help him or her function normally.  If not, ADHD can cause havoc on school, social and family life.

The article, “Could Your Child Have ADHD?” by Jeremy Sharp takes a closer look at the symptoms and next steps a parent must take to discover if one’s child has ADHD.  As a licensed psychologist, he lists the numerous possible outcomes that follow an assessment and the procedures needed to ensure the child receives the care he or she needs.  He reassures parents that they are not alone in this process and that there is light at the end of the tunnel.  He states,

If you think your child may have ADHD, it is important to get the child assessed and tested for it. It can be the difference of a life time for him or her

 

“As a parent and a child psychologist, I have a lot of empathy for other parents struggling with the question of whether their child may have ADHD. Despite all of the popular media representation and legitimate resources out there, it’s still a challenging question to answer! For all of you trying to figure it out, I hope that this article will offer a little bit of a roadmap to move forward.”

“Could Your Child Have ADHD?”. Jeremy Sharp, PhD. October 14th, 2022. WebMD.

To read the entire article, please access here

Commentary

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder that is characterized by problems with inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Symptoms of ADHD typically begin in childhood and can persist into adulthood. ADHD affects individuals of all ages and from all walks of life, though it is most commonly diagnosed in children. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, though it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms within children

There are a variety of symptoms that can be seen in children who have ADHD. Some of the more common ones include difficulties with sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, it is important to note that not all children with ADHD will display all of these symptoms. And, the severity of symptoms can vary greatly from child to child. In general, children with ADHD tend to have more difficulty than their peers in completing tasks, following through on instructions, and staying organized.

There are several ways to assess whether a child has ADHD. One common method is to use behavior rating scales. These scales are completed by parents, teachers, and/or other adults who have regular contact with the child. The scales measure symptoms of ADHD across different settings and over time. Another way to assess ADHD is through neuropsychological testing, which can measure attention, impulsivity, and activity level.

Ways to control child ADHD

There are a number of ways to control child ADHD. One way is to use medication. This can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of ADHD. Another way to control child ADHDis to use behavioral therapy. This can help the child learn how to better manage their symptoms. Finally, it is important to provide support and understanding to the child and their family. This can help the child cope with their condition and reduce the impact of ADHD on their life.

There are three types of medication typically prescribed for ADHD: stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Stimulants are the most common type of medication prescribed for ADHD and work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants also increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, but they do so indirectly.

There are numerous benefits of controlling child ADHD. Perhaps most importantly, controlling child ADHD can help improve the overall quality of the child’s life. In addition, it can help the child to better cope with his or her condition and potentially prevent future problems associated with ADHD. Additionally, treating child ADHD can also help to improve academic performance and family functioning. Finally, treating child ADHD can also reduce the risk of future substance abuse and other psychiatric problems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to remember that child ADHD is a real and serious condition. It can be difficult for children to cope with and can have a negative impact on their schooling, social life, and family life. There are treatments available that can help children manage their symptoms and lead happy, healthy lives.  It is important to consider using assessments for children with ADHD in order to provide the best possible care. These assessments can help identify areas of need and allow for tailored interventions. While there is no one perfect assessment, using a combination of tools can give a well-rounded picture of a child’s strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, these assessments can help children with ADHD reach their full potential. If you think your child may have ADHD, talk to your doctor and see what he or she recommends.

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.  After completing the courses, qualified professionals can then apply with AIHCP for the certification.

Additional Resources

“ADHD: Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents”. Subcommittee on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Steering Committee on Quality Improvement and Management. Pediatrics (2011) 128 (5): 1007–1022.  Access here

“ADHD in Young Children” CDC. Updated Nov. 8, 2018. Vital Signs.  Access here

“ADHD in Children”. Help Guide.  Updated.  Nov 1st, 2022.  Access here

“18 Early Warning Signs of ADHD You Can Observe in Your Children”. The Iowa Clinic. May 29th, 2020. The Iowa Clinic.  Access here

 

ADHD Symptoms and Signs

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Individuals with ADHD are not lazy or unintelligent but are individuals who suffer from a disorder that prevents them from focusing on tasks.   They become easily distracted and can lose focus on what needs done.  Due to this, especially in school, students are sometimes singled out as not studious or intelligent. ADHD not only affects children, but also adults.  In this regard, ADHD can disrupt work and career, plus relationships with others.  It is important to diagnose ADHD whether as a child or adult to receive the proper professional ADHD Consulting and Counseling.

Students with ADHD are not lazy. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your goals

 

The article, “5 Overlooked Signs of ADHD – the Inattentive Type” by Sharon Saline looks closer at signs and symptoms of ADHD.  She lists a variety of common signs including forgetfulness, distraction, incomplete tasks, following instructions and disorganization.  She also counters with various strategies to help the person overcome these symptoms.  She states,

“People with inattentive type ADHD (formerly called ADD) struggle with managing time, losing or misplacing things, and attending to details (resulting in careless mistakes), among other symptoms. Over time, these individuals may experience a higher level of mental fatigue and forgetfulness, and lower sustained energy throughout a task than do their non-ADHD peers.”

“5 Overlooked Signs of ADHD – the Inattentive Type”. Sharon Saline. ADDitude. July 11th, 2022.

To review the entire article, please click here

Commentary

ADHD is a mental disorder that is characterized by problems with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. People with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, sitting still, or controlling their impulses. ADHD can cause problems in school, work, and social relationships.

Symptoms of ADHD

The symptoms of ADHD can be divided into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Inattention refers to difficulties with sustaining attention, concentrating, and being organized. Individuals with ADHD may also have difficulty with following instructions, completing tasks, and keeping track of belongings. Hyperactivity-impulsivity refers to difficulties with remaining still or feeling restless and fidgety. Individuals with ADHD may also have difficulty with talking excessively, interrupting others, and acting without thinking.  Symptoms of ADHD typically begin before the age of seven. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for ADHD typically includes medication, counseling, and behavioral therapy.

ADHD Diagnosis

The diagnosis of ADHD can be made by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker, who conducts a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. The assessment may include a physical examination, interviews with the child and parent or other caregivers, and review of school records. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, is used to diagnose ADHD.

In some cases, diagnosis may not be to adulthood which can leave the individual with a life long story of confusion.  Due sometimes to over diagnosis, or parental hesitation, this can occur but it is important if two or more symptoms consistently manifest for parents to have their children tested.  In the long run, it will answer many questions, help the child in every aspect of life and correct many disciplinary issues.

Coping with ADHD

Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Medication is an important part of treatment for ADHD. Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine, are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD.  Adderal is a medication that is commonly used to treat ADHD. It works by increasing levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps to improve focus and concentration.

There are a number of ways to cope with ADHD. One way is to take medication prescribed by a physician. Another way is to develop coping mechanisms, such as using a planner or schedule, setting timers, and breaking tasks into smaller chunks. It is also important to establish routines and stick to them as much as possible.  Additionally, it is important to find healthy outlets for excess energy and impulsivity, such as exercise or creative pursuits. Finally, it is helpful to talk to others who understand what it is like to live with ADHD.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of ADHD in order to get the proper diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention is key to managing the symptoms and preventing them from adversely affecting one’s life. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of ADHD, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for help.

The treatment of ADHD can be difficult and it is a good idea to consult with a doctor. There are many ways to treat ADHD, and each person may respond differently to each treatment. Some common treatments include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. It is important to find what works best for you or your child and to stick with the treatment plan.  Again, the most important thing is to get help if you experience any of these symptoms or if you child or children experience any.

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.  Qualified professionals include those in mental health, healthcare and teaching positions who are looking to grasp a deeper understanding of ADHD.  After completing the required courses, one is then eligible to apply for the four year certification in ADHD Consulting.

Additional Resources

“Diagnosis and Management of ADHD in Children”. BARBARA T. FELT, MD, MS, et.al. Am Fam Physician. 2014;90(7):456-464.  Access here

“ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines: A Historical Perspective”. Mark L. Wolraich, MD, et.al. Pediatrics. Volume 144, Issue 4 October 2019. Access here

“Adult ADHD: Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, and Medication Management”. Julie P. Gentile, MD, et, al. Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2006 Aug; 3(8): 25–30.  Access here

“Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children”. Mayo Clinic Staff.  Mayo Clinic. Access here

“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)”.Medically Reviewed by Hansa D. Bhargava, MD. WebMed.  February 22nd, 2021. Access here

 

Does Adult ADHD Lead to Alcoholism or Drug Use? 

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Written by Fay Smith

ADHD is a common diagnosis for kids who struggle in school, but what happens when kids grow up and struggle in their offices, communities, and relationships?

Adults with ADHD have difficult challenges, and many turn to drugs and alcohol to cope.

In this article, we’ll look at how and why that is.

How Adults Cope with ADHD

ADHD presents many challenges for adults, but one of the biggest is regularly lacking dopamine.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is largely responsible for the pleasure that you feel when you accomplish something. A sense of accomplishment boosts you and makes it easier to take on your next tasks. For people with ADHD, this doesn’t happen the same way.

Adults with ADHD have a different reward system than neurotypical adults. A normal work routine, including meetings, might be somewhat boring for an office manager who is neurotypical, but it could send someone with ADHD into a spiral.

Without feeling like they are accomplishing anything important to them, and receiving the dopamine boost that goes along with that, it becomes increasingly hard to concentrate.

Having ADHD and needing to do things you don’t want to do and aren’t interested in can be extremely difficult, and even painful.

It’s a process of trying to force your brain to act in ways it doesn’t want to. The result is usually a drop in neurotransmitters and the onset of depression. Up to 53% of people with ADHD also struggle with depression.

There are legal substances that can provide a lot of help to adults with ADHD. Coffee can help to stimulate the brain to produce more neurotransmitters, and legal CBD can help to relax the nervous system and provide the restful sleep that adults with ADHD need to maintain good brain health. Know more about it here.

However, there are many adults with ADHD who turn to alcohol and drugs – not just to cope with the pain of having ADHD as an adult in a world designed for neurotypical people, but to help manage an unruly brain that won’t seem to follow directions.

Why do ADHD Adults Turn to Drugs and Alcohol?

It’s important to note that every adult with ADHD was once a child with ADHD, and it is typically in pre-adolescence or adolescence when substance abuse problems or tendencies first arise.

An 8-year longitudinal study found that at the age of 14.9, 40% of ADHD subjects and only 22% of control subjects had used alcohol (Barkley et al. 1990). This suggests that alcohol and other drugs are more appealing to people with ADHD in early adolescence.

A different study found that at age 25, alcohol use was roughly equal between ADHD adults and control groups, but we know that early and intense alcohol use is a risk factor for later alcohol and drug problems.

Growing up is when most people start to face increasing demands on their time and attention, which is also when young adults with ADHD begin to face significant struggles and shoulder the shame that comes from not being able to act or be like everyone else.

ADHD adults use drugs to cope, practically and emotionally.

In a practical sense, drugs and alcohol change the brain and produce the mental states that people with ADHD are looking for. When you are unable to feel happy or concentrate, a cup of coffee can help. So can other drugs. When you can’t seem to calm down or regulate your energy or emotions, alcohol can help. So can other drugs.

Neurotypical adults might be able to take a deep breath and restore calm and focus, but this just doesn’t happen for ADHD adults, who struggle to regulate themselves.

On an emotional level, it is easy to blame yourself for your problems as someone with ADHD. An inability to focus can be mistaken as a lack of interest or care. Disinterest in boring and unrewarding tasks can come across as laziness.

Adults with ADHD have to deal with a disabling inability to focus, as well as being blamed personally for that inability to focus.

In a culture that values constant productivity and readiness, adults with ADHD often struggle to regulate their attention and emotions and use drugs or alcohol as tools to cope.

Recovery for Adults with ADHD and Drug Problems

Although alcohol and other drugs might relieve temporary symptoms of ADHD, they invariably make life worse.

This is not just for all of the reasons that you’re familiar with – the cost, the health impacts, the social impacts, etc – but also because alcohol and most other drugs are harmful to the brain and end up making symptoms worse in the long run.

A healthy brain releases more neurotransmitters that help focus and attention. An unhealthy brain doesn’t regulate itself well. When you start messing with your brain’s reward system, it makes it even harder to set things right.

If you or someone you know is an adult with ADHD and a drug or alcohol problem, find a treatment solution that also addresses the impacts of ADHD. True recovery requires solutions to multiple problems.

 

 

Author Bio: Fay Smith

Fay Smith worked in communications for five years before settling down with her husband. She’s now a mother of two young children and takes care of three lovable Pomeranians. Fay Smith is a regular contributor on various health and wellness sites. She also works as a freelance writer and researcher on wellness topics, such as alternative treatments and CBD.

 

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Attention Deficit Consulting certificate program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.

ADHD Consulting Program Blog on ADHD and Disorganization

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

ADHD can make one disorganized.  In that disorganization messiness is the final result.  Many individuals with ADHD have messes throughout their work area or home and are unable to keep things organized due to the constant movement from one issue to another.  Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program

ADHD can lead to disorganization and messiness in one’s life. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program

 

The article, “Can ADHD Cause You to Be Messy and Disorganized?” from Healthline looks closer at how ADHD can lead to messes and disorganization in life.  The article states,

 

“ADHD’s cognitive effects can cause you to have trouble finishing tasks, such as homework, or scheduling appointments. This can also include tasks relating to the organization of a physical space, like your room or office. For example, maybe you did the laundry but haven’t folded it, so it just sits on the ground all week. Or you might start several creative projects and leave their elements out and about, cluttering the room. You may also find yourself constantly misplacing items.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.

ADHD Consulting Certification Blog on ADHD and Emotion

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

ADHD can work hand and hand with emotions.  Emotions can emerge with the impulsivity of ADHD and later cause one to regret certain behaviors.  It is important to understand how emotions and ADHD can work against oneself and be able to better cope.  Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program

ADHD can enhance emotional outbursts. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals

 

The article, “ADHD and Emotions in Adults: Exploring the Connections” from Healthline looks closer at the issues emotions and ADHD together can cause.  The article states,

“Emotional impulsivity, then, describes sudden actions in direct response to an inability to regulate emotions. In children, this may largely be recognized as an inability to take turns when playing games or talking over others. While adults may also experience such symptoms, signs of emotional impulsivity can become even more problematic in daily life”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.

ADHD Consulting Specialist Program Blog on ADHD Misdiagnosis

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

ADHD is one of the most common over misdiagnosed mental issues in children.  It is easy to misdiagnose due to the multiple symptoms and the differences in its appearance from person to person.  With this in mind, it is important to receive a very accurate diagnosis regarding ADHD.  Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Specialist Program

ADHD is commonly misdiagnosed. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals

 

The article, “Why ADHD Misdiagnoses Can Be Common” By Stephanie Wright takes a closer look at ADHD and misdiagnosis.  She states,

“Sometimes, doctors don’t get an initial diagnosis right. Being your own health advocate can help ensure you get the correct diagnosis, critical to receiving effective care.  If you’ve been correctly diagnosed with ADHD, it’s going to be OK. Though stigma still exists, society has come a long way in awareness and acceptance of mental health conditions.  You don’t need to hide your symptoms. Your local health office is a safe space to seek help for your mental health condition — whether it’s ADHD or something different.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Specialist Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as an ADHD Consultant Specialist.

ADHD Consulting Certification Blog on Undiagnosed ADHD

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Many adults never go diagnosed with ADHD during childhood.  Later in life these adults can feel like most of their life was a misunderstanding and if they had help they could have done so many things better.  Others have other social issues to deal with due to the stigma of ADHD.

Adult ADHD is usually undiagnosed as a kid. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program

 

The article, “How undiagnosed ADHD can impact children later in life” by Theresa Ho looks at the impacts of undiagnosed ADHD.  She states,

“Nguyen, now 25, said that she didn’t think that she had ADHD because she always earned decent grades growing up, and she thought ADHD was a learning disability. She went to another therapist for a second opinion, and when that therapist confirmed the diagnosis, she went to a psychiatrist who also confirmed her diagnosis. Watson said that ADHD is a unique and complicated diagnosis.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.

ADHD Consulting Certification Blog on ADHD Diagnosis in Adults

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

It can be far more difficult to receive a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult than when a child. There are far more criteria to be met and a history of symptoms.  This can make it more difficult for an adult especially since they need to be referred to a specialist as well.

ADHD in adults can be harder to diagnosis. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals

 

 

The article, “ADHD SYMPTOMS IN ADULTS: WHY DIAGNOSIS IS SO DIFFICULT” by James Brown and Alex Connor look at why adults have a more difficult time receiving a diagnosis.  They state,

“Understanding the condition in adults, taking it more seriously as a disorder, raising awareness of it, and investing in services to improve diagnosis times are key. Diagnosis opens the door to treatment, which can have a marked impact on living with the disorder — such as improving self-esteem, productivity, and quality of life.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.

ADHD Consulting Program Blog on Adult ADHD

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

ADHD looks different in adults and may be difficult to spot, especially for individuals who have lived their whole life thinking their behavior is normal.  It is important to discover if one has ADHD in order to improve one’s life style in every venue of life.  This is especially true with work and relationships.

It is important to identify if you have adult ADHD. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program

 

The article, “ADHD looks different in adults. Here are 4 signs to watch for” by Tamara May looks closer at signs of ADHD in adults and what one can do.  She states,

“Many people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood. Adult symptoms can look a little different to those of childhood.  Knowing what to look for is important, so people can get support to help them better understand themselves and meet their full potential. People, including some clinicians, may not be aware of adult ADHD and how symptoms may change as a person develops and grows. We aim to change this through the development of an Australian ADHD guideline, which is based on evidence and now open for feedback.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as an ADHD Consultant.

ADHD Consulting Blog on ADHD Coach

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

ADHD Coaches and consultants can help a family deal with ADHD or help an individual learn to better cope with ADHD.  While counseling professionals can earn an additional certification in ADHD Consulting, many individuals can become ADHD coaches who are not counselors.  This is important to note.

It is important if an ADHD Coach is working with you that they are at least certified. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification

 

The article, “Could an ADHD Coach Help Your Family?” by Sara Lindberg looks at the role of an ADHD Coach.  She states,

“ADHD coaching is a relatively new idea. It’s important to be aware that there’s currently no formal regulation of the role, so technically, anyone can advertise themselves as an ADHD coach. At the same time, there are organizations that offer training and certifications. If you’re seeking a coach, it’s important to request their training and experience in order to know what qualifications they actually possess.”

To review the entire article, please click here

AIHCP also offers certification to professionals seeking a certification as an ADHD Consultant.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.  ADHD coaches do not necessarily have to possess a counseling license, but AIHCP ensures that individuals who do possess the certification have some type of professional and academic status.