Deep Dive
Why is ADHD often hereditary?
If a parent has ADHD, their child has about a 50% chance of having it as well due to genetic factors.
What environmental factors can contribute to ADHD?
Issues during pregnancy, such as exposure to alcohol or tobacco, premature delivery, low birth weight, exposure to lead, and brain injuries can contribute to ADHD.
How does screen time affect children with ADHD?
Children with ADHD are more drawn to screens due to their short attention spans, which crave the dopamine release from flashy graphics. High screen time increases the risk of meeting ADHD diagnosis criteria.
Why is diagnosing ADHD in young children challenging?
Young children may exhibit developmental delays that mimic ADHD, making it difficult to accurately diagnose until they are older, around six to eight years old.
What are the criteria for diagnosing ADHD in adults?
Adults need to meet five out of nine criteria on either the inattentive or hyperactive list, with adjustments made for adult behaviors like feeling restless during meetings.
Why are girls with ADHD often undiagnosed?
Girls are expected to be demure and quiet, leading them to mask their symptoms more effectively than boys, who can be more rambunctious without drawing attention.
What is the link between ADHD and autism?
30-80% of people with autism also have ADHD, and 20-50% of people with ADHD have autism, indicating a significant overlap but not necessarily the same condition.
How does ADHD affect relationships and self-esteem?
ADHD can lead to lower self-esteem and self-compassion due to the need to mask symptoms, which can strain relationships and make it harder to connect with others.
What are the most effective treatments for ADHD?
The most effective treatments include medication, therapy, and coaching, often used in combination to manage symptoms effectively.
Are there long-term risks associated with ADHD medication?
While some studies suggest a link to cardiovascular disease, the consensus among professionals is that long-term use of stimulants for ADHD is generally safe and effective.
- Hereditary factor: If a parent has ADHD, their child has a 50% chance of having it.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to alcohol, tobacco, lead, and brain injuries can contribute to ADHD.
- Screen time: Children with ADHD are more attracted to screens, and excessive screen time can exacerbate symptoms.
Shownotes Transcript