Understanding Issues Related to ADHD
ADHD is a commonly diagnosed neurological disorder. Many people think it causes someone to have difficulty paying attention and be hyper. While that’s true, that’s only one part of it. ADHD is a disorder that can impact many areas of a person’s life. For one, people with ADHD struggle with executive dysfunction. This includes challenges with areas such as task initiation and emotional regulation. However, ADHD is related to many other issues that people should be aware of.
Anxiety:
Did you know that according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, approximately 50 percent of American adults with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder? Many times, I see children with ADHD develop anxiety during adolescence or early adulthood. People with ADHD struggle with stress management and often feel overwhelmed. ADHD also comes with a higher risk of other anxiety disorders, such as OCD. It’s essential to understand how the wiring in the ADHD brain can lead to anxiety-related symptoms.
Depression and other mood disorders:
Depression is another common mental health disorder associated with ADHD. Sometimes, symptoms can mirror each other, leading to confusion. Living with the struggles of ADHD can bring on these feelings of depression. It takes a toll on a person to struggle with]things that most people find easy. Some also think low levels of dopamine cause it, while others say it’s a family history. ADHD is also associated with other mood disorders like Bipolar Disorder.
Social Issues:
Socialization is a challenge for those with ADHD. Many people with ADHD find it difficult to make and maintain friendships. Some of the reasons include social burnout and emotional management. Individuals with ADHD may also overshare and interpret, leading to frustration in relationships. In addition, Rejection Sensitive Dysphorphia(RSD) can make socializing difficult. RSD causes a lot of distress when a person feels like they’ve been rejected or failed. Learning how different brains work can help us better understand each other in social situations.
Substance Abuse:
Unfortunately, those with ADHD can be more susceptible to addiction. Some of the reasons include impulsivity. Adults with ADHD struggle with self-control, which can lead to overconsumption of substances. The low levels of dopamine in ADHD can also lead to addiction. A dopamine deficiency can make it more challenging to know how to stop using substances like drugs and alcohol. The ADHD brain craves the stimulation that the substance gives to people. Although not everyone deals with this, it’s important to be aware of it, as addiction can cause many issues in a person’s life.
I hope this helped to provide a deeper look into ADHD. It’s a common disorder, but people still don’t understand it. It’s a disorder that can impact many areas of a person’s life. Although ADHD can cause many challenges, it also comes with many advantages. Let’s keep working to help all brains feel supported in our society!
