🧠 Understanding ADHD
Complete guide on Attention Deficit Disorder with or without Hyperactivity
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▶️ Take the Free ADHD TestThis article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a medical diagnosis. Only a qualified healthcare professional (psychiatrist, neuropsychologist) can diagnose ADHD after a comprehensive assessment.
🧠 What is ADHD?
The Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide. It is characterized by persistent difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity.
Contrary to popular belief, ADHD is not a lack of willpower or a parenting issue. It is a neurological difference that affects the functioning of brain circuits involved in attention, emotional regulation, and impulse control.
Neuroimaging studies show structural and functional differences in the brains of people with ADHD, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and dopaminergic circuits. These differences explain the difficulties with attention and impulse control.
The Three Presentations of ADHD
ADHD can manifest in three different ways:
Predominantly Inattentive
Difficulties concentrating, distractibility, frequent forgetfulness
Hyperactivity-Impulsivity
Restlessness, difficulty waiting, hasty actions
Combined Presentation
Combination of both types of symptoms
Development with Age
Hyperactivity often decreases in adulthood
📋 Symptoms of ADHD
The symptoms of ADHD vary by age and individual. Here are the main signs that may indicate ADHD:
Inattention Symptoms
Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms
💡 Note: For an ADHD diagnosis, these symptoms must be present since childhood (before age 12), manifest in multiple contexts (home, work, school), and have a significant impact on daily life.
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▶️ Take the Attention Test🩺 How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of ADHD is a rigorous process that can only be made by a qualified healthcare professional. Here are the usual steps:
1. In-depth Clinical Interview
The professional gathers developmental history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and family history.
2. Standardized Questionnaires
Scientifically validated scales (ASRS for adults, Conners for children) help objectify the symptoms.
3. Neuropsychological Assessment
Cognitive tests evaluate attention, working memory, executive functions, and help rule out other causes.
4. Elimination of Other Causes
The professional ensures that the symptoms are not better explained by another condition (anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, etc.).
🩺 Who to Consult? You can consult your primary care physician (who can refer you), a psychiatrist, a neurologist, or a neuropsychologist for a complete assessment.
💡 Strategies to Improve Attention
Whether you have a diagnosed ADHD or simply have concentration difficulties, here are effective strategies:
Organization and Planning
- Use task lists and reminders
- Break large tasks into smaller steps
- Establish daily routines
- Use a planner or time management app
Work Environment
- Reduce distractions (notifications, noise)
- Create a dedicated and organized workspace
- Use headphones or white noise if necessary
- Work in short sessions (Pomodoro technique: 25 min work / 5 min break)
Healthy Lifestyle
- Get enough sleep (7-9 hours per night)
- Exercise regularly
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Practice mindfulness meditation
Cognitive Training
- Practice concentration exercises regularly
- Use brain training apps
- Vary activities to stimulate different functions
🧠 Train Your Attention Daily
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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