ADHD Awareness Month
October is ADHD Awareness Month.
What is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. In a 2024 study, approximately 1 out of 9 children and adolescents received a diagnosis of ADHD. Out of the children with current symptoms of ADHD, 53.6% received medication and 44.4% received behavioral treatment. About one-third did not receive any ADHD related treatments.
Children and adolescents with ADHD may have difficulty with:
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: restlessness, excessive talking, difficulty waiting their turn, etc.
Inattention: easily distracted, forgetful, making careless mistakes, etc.
Executive functioning and self-regulation.
What is the most effective treatment for ADHD?
The research is clear. Treating ADHD with medication (e.g., stimulants) is the most effective way for treating symptoms of ADHD. There are other potential benefits through cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise, spending time outdoors moving, yoga, meditation, or martial arts/tai chi. These treatments do not cure ADHD but can reduce the symptoms and improve overall functioning. There is little to no evidence in the effectiveness of changing a child’s diet or giving herbal supplements on symptoms of ADHD.
There are negative outcomes associated with ADHD through the lifespan. For instance, individuals with ADHD are at a higher risk of:
low achievement and/or academic difficulties
lower rate of post-secondary education
poor relationships with peers and/or family
poor nutrition and other health related problems
sleep difficulties
substance use/abuse
increased injuries, car accidents
shorter life expectancy
Accessing treatment and support through medical and mental health professionals as well as in the school setting can go a long way in reducing these negative outcomes.
Children and adolescents with ADHD may be eligible for accommodations through a Section 504 Accommodation Plan or special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (2004).
If you are concerned that your child may have ADHD and you live in Arizona, reach out for a free consultation. In addition to my therapy services, I provide private evaluations that include assessments for ADHD.
Some useful resources related to ADHD include:
Russell Barkley, Ph.D. - Dr. Russell A. Barkley - Dedicated to Education and Research on ADHD
Smart but Scattered Kids - Home - Smart But Scattered Kids
*This blog includes links to websites for information and reference purposes only.
**References: Danielson, Claussen, Bitsko, et. al. (2024), Barkley, R. A. (2021)