Attention Deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition which impacts the behaviour of an individual and potentially their mental health. It has been suggested by Mind that people with ADHD are more likely to suffer from mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and sleep problems.
ADHD can have a particular impact on young people who may have not been diagnosed with the condition or are adjusting to life with the condition. This post looks at the main symptoms and the impact the condition has on the mental health of young people.
What is ADHD like?
Typically those with ADHD tend to experience the following symptoms:
- Have difficulty concentrating
- Often fidget
- Talking a lot
- Forgetful
- Sometimes makes rash and impulsive decisions
- Finds it difficult to follow instructions
- Having little or no sense of danger
ADHD can also affect the emotions of children. For example, ADHD can lead to children having emotional dysregulation, which can lead to children having outbursts, and acting impulsively to events around them.
Sometimes ADHD can be misdiagnosed by a mental health problem such as depression, anxiety, OCD or a personality disorder. This is because testing and diagnosing an individual with ADHD can be difficult and complex. Alternatively, some of the ADHD symptoms can help an individual and they can be passionate about different things
Getting help for ADHD
If you are experiencing some of the symptoms and feel that they are hindering your life, then you will need to speak to your GP about the condition. Although it might seem difficult to talk about first, by speaking to your GP, this could be an important step in being diagnosed and getting your life back on track.
From here they might refer you to an ADHD specialist, like a psychiatrist, where they will ask you questions about how you are feeling or what you’re going through.
If you are a child or young person being assessed, then the specialist will need permission from a parent or guardian.
Treatment of ADHD
ADHD can be treated by either medication, counselling or a combination of both;
- Medication – The medication that could be prescribed can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD but will not cure the condition.
- Counselling & therapy – You will often be given cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which focuses on how your thoughts, attitudes and beliefs can impact your feelings and behaviour. It can be offered for both adults and children
You can also receive support from charities and foundations such as Mind or YoungMinds
If you need help
If you are experiencing issues with your mental health, then be sure to contact the friendly therapists at Re-root. We offer a range of counselling for individuals and children who are experiencing mental health problems across Richmond and West London. If you have any questions, then please get in touch.