Signs and Treatment of ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults, influencing attention, focus, impulse control and activity levels. It presents differently in everyone, which can make it challenging to recognise and address. Understanding the signs, treatment options, and how to support someone with ADHD as a Mental Health First Responder (MHFR) is crucial for providing timely help.
This blog will explore the key symptoms of ADHD, how it impacts the person, what you may observe as a Mental Health First Responder and some practical steps to support someone experiencing ADHD symptoms.
What are the Signs of ADHD?
ADHD symptoms typically fall into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, not everyone with ADHD displays all these traits, as the condition varies from person to person.
Inattention:
• Difficulty sustaining focus on tasks or activities.
• Frequently makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work or other activities.
• Trouble organising tasks and activities.
• Easily distracted by unrelated stimuli.
• Often forgetful in daily activities and may lose items necessary for tasks (e.g., keys, books).
Hyperactivity:
• Fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in the seat.
• Has difficulty staying seated for extended periods.
• Appears restless, constantly moving or acting as if “driven by a motor.”
• Talks excessively, often interrupting others.
Impulsivity:
• Acts without thinking through the consequences.
• Difficulty waiting for their turn in conversations or activities.
• Frequently interrupts or intrudes on others.
• Makes hasty decisions, often without considering the risks.
The signs of ADHD in adults and children may differ slightly. For example, hyperactivity in children might manifest as excessive running or climbing, while in adults it could appear as constant restlessness or difficulty relaxing.
ADHD and gender
In the UK, it is estimated that 3-4% of the adult population have ADHD with a diagnosed ratio of 3:1 male to female. Girls are more likely to mask their difficulties in social situations. For example, in a classroom setting the ADHD “naughty boy” who is unable to sit in his seat and is disrupting the class is more likely to be highlighted by the teacher. As he is interrupting the lesson, there is more to gain from the teacher tuning into this boy and get him help. However, the inattentive ADHD girl sitting nicely but not able to complete her work because she is unable to focus with all the noise and disturbance will go unnoticed. She will likely be told at parents evening that she isn’t reaching her potential and if she would just apply herself more she would do better.
How does a person with ADHD feel?
Living with ADHD can be overwhelming. Individuals often experience a sense of frustration or failure, especially when their symptoms interfere with their daily life.
Overwhelming Frustration: People with ADHD frequently struggle to focus, follow instructions, or complete tasks, leading to a sense of frustration. They may feel inadequate, especially if others perceive them as “lazy” or “disorganised.” This can erode self-esteem over time.
Anxiety and Stress: The constant battle to stay organised and on task can cause significant stress. Anxiety often accompanies ADHD, particularly when individuals feel like they are falling behind or disappointing others.
Social Struggles: Those with ADHD might find it hard to form or maintain relationships. Interrupting conversations, acting impulsively or forgetting important social commitments can lead to misunderstandings or social isolation.
Emotional Instability: ADHD is often linked to emotional regulation difficulties. Those affected may experience mood swings or become easily upset over small setbacks. This can leave them feeling like their emotions are out of control.
Guilt and Shame: Many people with ADHD feel guilt or shame over their inability to meet expectations, whether at work, school or home. They often blame themselves for symptoms beyond their control, which can contribute to a cycle of negative thinking.
Why Do They Feel Like That?
ADHD is a neurobiological condition that affects how the brain processes information, particularly in areas related to executive function. Skills like planning, organisation, focus and impulse control are all factors that can present as challenges. In the brain, the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for these tasks, works less efficiently in people with ADHD.
This neurodevelopmental difference explains why people with ADHD may struggle with these organisational, focus or controlling impulses. However, societal expectations and misunderstandings of ADHD often exacerbate these feelings. For example, when people are labelled as “lazy” or “unmotivated,” they internalise these judgments, which only amplifies feelings of guilt, frustration and shame.
What Do You SEE as a Mental Health First Responder?
As a Mental Health First Responder, there are several key signs you may observe when interacting with someone who has ADHD:
Fidgeting and Restlessness: The individual may appear restless, constantly shifting in their seat, tapping their foot or fidgeting with objects around them.
Difficulty Following Conversations: They may seem distracted during conversations or have trouble staying on topic. They might also interrupt others frequently, without realizing it.
Impulsivity: You may notice that the person tends to act quickly or speak without thinking, often leading to social challenges or misunderstandings.
Frustration or Emotional Outbursts: The individual might become easily frustrated or upset, especially when facing tasks that require prolonged attention or organisation.
Disorganisation: They may lose track of items, forget appointments or struggle to maintain an organised workspace or schedule. You may observe them appearing flustered or overwhelmed by their to-do list.
What Do You DO as a Mental Health First Responder?
As a mental health first responder, your role is to offer support, listen without judgment, and help the individual find appropriate professional help where applicable. Here’s how you can provide effective support to someone experiencing ADHD symptoms:
Provide Emotional Support: Listen actively and empathetically. Validate their feelings of frustration or overwhelm without minimizing their experiences. Let them know that ADHD is a recognised condition, and there are strategies and treatments available to help them manage it.
Create a Calm Environment: If the individual seems overwhelmed or distracted, try to remove unnecessary stimuli from the environment. This might involve finding a quieter space to talk or minimizing interruptions during your conversation.
Encourage Focus on Small Steps: Break tasks into manageable steps. If the person feels overwhelmed by a long to-do list, help them focus on one small task at a time. This can make challenges feel more achievable and help reduce anxiety.
Avoid Criticism: Avoid giving critical feedback in a way that might come across as judgmental. People with ADHD often face a lot of negative feedback in their lives, so it’s essential to approach the conversation with patience and understanding.
Help Them Find Professional Support: Encourage the individual to seek help from a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or therapist, who can offer a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. ADHD is often treated with behavioural therapy, medication or a combination of both.
Follow Up: After your initial conversation, check in with the person to see how they’re doing. Regular follow-ups can show that you care and that they can rely on you for continued support.
Treatment Options for ADHD
ADHD is a lifelong condition, but it can be managed effectively with the right treatment plan. Here are some common approaches:
Medication: Stimulant medications, such as Adderall or Ritalin, are often prescribed to help improve focus and reduce impulsivity. Non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, may also be prescribed, depending on the individual’s needs.
Behavioural Therapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help individuals with ADHD develop strategies to manage their symptoms. CBT teaches skills like organization, time management and emotional regulation.
Coaching and Organisational Tools: There are ADHD coaches that work with individuals to develop organisational strategies, set realistic goals and break tasks into smaller steps. Tools like planners, timers, and apps can also help with time management.
Support Groups: Support groups offer a safe space for people with ADHD to share their experiences, learn from others and gain support from peers who understand their challenges.
Lifestyle Changes: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet and sufficient sleep can all improve focus and reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity. Creating a structured daily routine may also help individuals stay on track.
Want to learn more about Mental Health First Aid?
The First Aid Training Co-operative runs a suite of private first aid courses that can be delivered at your choice of venue, at a time and date to suit you. We’ll come to you and tailor your course to suit your specific situation, based on one of the core course types that we have in our portfolio. We now have a range of courses available for those looking to become Mental Health First Responders in the workplace, raise awareness of mental health amongst their staff plus specialist mental health training for outdoor professionals. Check out our mental health first aid course suite.
