Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a developmental impairment of the brain’s executive functions, can be challenging. The difficulties with impulse control, focusing, and organization can significantly impact daily functioning, yet many people are unaware of the complexities of ADHD.



ADHD TREATMENT

CBT
Mindfulness
Medication
Time-management Strategies
Healthy habits such as sleep, balanced diet, exercise
Organizational Strategies


MY APPROACH

I approach ADHD treatment by first assessing symptoms, reviewing family and mental health history, as well as assessing for any other co-occurring issues. For example, most people with ADHD also struggle with anxiety, depression and self-esteem issues.


ADHD AND ANXIETY

ADHD and anxiety often co-occur, with anxiety sometimes becoming the brain's maladaptive coping strategy for managing ADHD symptoms.

Ruminating about uncompleted tasks 
Checking compulsions completed tasks due to forgetfulness and not being present during completion.
Some clients may even develop Social Anxiety due to negative experiences with saying something embarrassing because they didn't think before responding.


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. 


ADHD AND DEPRESSION

Depression can be caused by 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 SELF-ESTEEM

Many people with ADHD (especially later diagnosed) have received negative attention from parents, teachers and peers; comments such as "you're not trying hard enough" or "you're lazy" have created negative self-beliefs. CBT can help clients restructure their negative beliefs and increase self-worth.