Four Facts About ADHD That Might Surprise You

First thing’s first--what is ADHD? ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. There are a lot of myths and misunderstandings about ADHD, so it’s vital to establish up-front what we mean when we say “ADHD.”

ADHD is a chronic condition involving impulsiveness, hyperactivity, and attention difficulty. The condition usually develops in childhood and often persists into adulthood. ADHD requires a medical diagnosis and may affect school, work, relationships, and self-esteem.

You can learn even more about the truth of ADHD here.

Facts About ADHD That Might Surprise You

ADHD Can Present Differently in Women and Girls

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), boys are three times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls. But many believe this is because ADHD looks different in girls--not because it occurs less frequently.

Research shows that boys tend to have externalized ADHD symptoms while girls are more likely to have internalized symptoms. An externalized sign might be impulsivity or restlessness. An internalized sign might be low self-esteem or inattentiveness.

Since ADHD symptoms in girls tend to be less noticeable, they can often go under the radar. Unfortunately, girls with undiagnosed ADHD may further internalize their struggle, turning pain inward and experiencing depression, eating disorders, and anxiety.

Untreated ADHD Can Impact Relationships

Having ADHD doesn’t mean your relationships have to suffer more than other people’s. But relationships where one or more people have ADHD might require unique methods to stay strong. For example, partners may have to accept repeating themselves, touching the person with ADHD to bring their attention back, or setting designated times to talk away from distractions.

ADHD poses a threat to relationships because symptoms can be interpreted as disinterest or lack of caring. A person with ADHD might have trouble concentrating when their partner is explaining their day. This inability to engage or remember could be seen as a loss of love or concern. But when both people commit to patience, understanding, and management, the relationship can thrive.

Therapy Dogs Can Help With ADHD

Trials have found that therapy dogs can help reduce ADHD symptoms in some children. One recent study found that kids who interacted with therapy dogs over twelve weeks experienced an improvement in self-esteem and social skills as well as a reduction in inattention.

Perhaps most surprisingly, the presence of the therapy dogs did not seem to affect the children’s ability to focus or participate. Also worth noting, the children in the “dog groups” were always on time, proving that man’s best friend makes everything--including therapy--more fun.

ADHD is a Lifelong Condition

ADHD is a lifelong condition. But when properly managed and understood, there is no reason ADHD should prevent anyone from leading a full, satisfying life. Like anything else, ADHD requires patience, education, and an open mind.

Just because people don’t outgrow ADHD doesn’t mean their ADHD experience doesn’t evolve. For example, hyperactivity can diminish in adulthood, and some adults experience hyperfocus they never had as a child. 

CONCLUSION

If you have a child with ADHD, it’s understandable that you might feel overwhelmed at times. Information is abundant, and some of it is conflicting and confusing. Just remember, parenting kids with ADHD doesn’t require perfection or perfect understanding! Just by listening to your child and supporting them through their journey, you’re giving them an invaluable gift.

Sensory Scout is a wealth of resources, community connection opportunities, and sensory products that promote health and wellness. As the parent of a child with sensory struggles, you’re never alone! We are all in this together.