Understanding ADHD: A Therapist’s Perspective on Diagnosis and Support
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is recognized as one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders by the National Institutes of Health (2022). The Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance’s 2021 report found a higher prevalence of ADHD among children and adolescents compared to adults, with a higher rate in boys than girls, and an overall ADHD incidence rate of 5.4% in Canada (Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance, 2021).
ADHD is commonly characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with activities of daily living. While ADHD is frequently diagnosed in childhood, it can persist into adulthood, with symptoms sometimes becoming more subtle yet still significantly impactful.
Although these core ADHD behaviors are widely recognized, their expression can vary significantly across cultures. Different societies place diverse values on behaviors, attentional patterns, and energy levels, which can influence the perception of ADHD symptoms. As such, my colleague, Dr. Renée Taylor at Sankofa Wellness highly recommends accurate, culturally tailored, and culturally appropriate assessment tools for diagnosing ADHD.
🌟Three Types of ADHD:
🌿Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: Individuals struggle mainly with focusing, following instructions, and organizing tasks.
🌿Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: Symptoms include fidgeting, restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty staying seated.
🌿Combined Presentation: Individuals display a mixture of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity symptoms.
🌟Role of Therapy In ADHD
Therapy empowers individuals with ADHD by equipping them with strategies to manage their symptoms, build coping mechanisms, and enhance their overall quality of life. Common therapeutic approaches include psychoeducation, cognitive behavioural therapy, behavioural interventions, mindfulness and emotional regulation training, skill-building exercises, and support for families.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed with ADHD or have been managing it for years, therapy provides a safe space to explore the unique challenges and strengths associated with the condition. With the right therapeutic support, individuals with ADHD can gain a deeper understanding of their condition and develop effective coping strategies to empower them to thrive.
To learn more about how I can support you in managing your ADHD, please feel free to book a consultation.
