ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)
ADHD is a developmental impairment of the brain’s executive functions. As a person living with ADHD, I understand the challenges and complexities firsthand. Many underestimate the many areas of life that ADHD can negatively impact, areas such as employment, education, social, financial and health.
ADHD TREATMENT
CBT
Mindfulness
Medication
Time-management Strategies
Healthy habits such as sleep, balanced diet, exercise
Organizational Strategies
Healthy Routines
MY APPROACH
I take a compassionate approach to ADHD treatment by starting with a thorough evaluation of symptoms and a review of both family and mental health history. It’s important to me to understand the whole person, including any other challenges they may be facing. Many individuals with ADHD also deal with issues like anxiety, depression, and struggles with self-esteem, and I want to ensure that we address all of these aspects together.
ADHD AND ANXIETY
ADHD and anxiety often occur together, with anxiety sometimes serving as a coping mechanism for ADHD challenges. Many individuals share this struggle, which can feel overwhelming. **Common Symptoms:** - Ruminating about unfinished tasks leads to worry and frustration. - Compulsive double-checking may arise from forgetfulness or disconnection. - Social anxiety can make interactions daunting. - Sleep issues can leave you drained and unfocused. Recognizing these symptoms is vital for finding effective support and strategies. Remember, you’re not alone in this.
ADHD can cause Depression ADHD can often trigger feelings of depression, especially when you find everyday tasks challenging and start to compare your abilities to those of others. It’s important to recognize that the ADHD brain produces lower levels of dopamine and serotonin, which can significantly affect your mood and sense of pleasure. You’re not alone in this struggle, and understanding these challenges is an important step toward finding the support you need.due to struggling with everyday functioning and comparing your level of functioning to others; the ADHD brain also produces less Dopamine and Serotonin, which impacts mood and pleasure.
ADHD AND DEPRESSION
ADHD AND SELF-ESTEEM
Many individuals with ADHD, especially those diagnosed later, often face harsh criticism from parents, teachers, and peers. Hurtful comments like “you’re not trying hard enough” can undermine self-esteem and lead to negative beliefs. Fortunately, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help reshape these thoughts and enhance self-worth.
ADHD AND MINDFULNESS
Mindfulness, while not a cure, is a powerful tool in the management of ADHD. Research has shown that it can lead to significant improvements in focus and emotional regulation over time, giving individuals a sense of control over their symptoms.