ADHD Q&A

Hello everyone! In this article, I took notes from an anonymous Q&A I had with a generous and kind individual who has experience with ADHD. Please note that the information below is based on the Q&A, so please verify certain information you are curious about with mental health professionals.

Q: What exactly is ADHD?

A: ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsiveness. 

Q: How prevalent is ADHD?

A: ADHD is among the most common neurodevelopmental disorders globally, affecting 5-8% of the population worldwide. While often linked to childhood, it also persists into adulthood.

Q: While the brain's functioning is altered, what about its physical structure?

A: Numerous studies have shown that the brain's anatomical structures, including the prefrontal cortex, cerebellum, striatum, and parietal cortex, are often affected. This is concerning because these regions are crucial for cognition and attention-related neural networks. Although graph theory models help identify features of complex brain networks, the networks in ADHD brains remain poorly understood. Recent findings, however, suggest significant reorganization of the brain’s structural neural networks. 

Q: How likely is it for someone to develop ADHD if a relative has it?

A: Various family, twin, and adoption studies have shown a heritability rate exceeding 74%. Additionally, a study found that siblings of those with ADHD have about nine times the risk of developing the disorder. Another study reported heritability rates as high as 80%, regardless of gender. Thus, the heritability rate is notably significant. 

Q: What are the main factors contributing to the condition? 

A: While genetic factors are likely the most significant, environmental factors can exacerbate these genetic influences. Environmental factors can even lead to genetic changes, especially around the time of pregnancy. For instance, heavy smoking shortly before childbirth can trigger genetic changes due to environmental factors, contributing to ADHD. The causes of ADHD are similar to other neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD, as they often share a common direct cause: changes in brain neurology. 

Q: What challenges do people with ADHD encounter?

A: ADHD can be burdensome for individuals. Disturbed executive functioning affects decision-making and emotional control, making social interactions challenging due to impulsivity and irritability, leading to a perception of being "troublemakers." If undiagnosed, individuals may face unnecessary social exclusion, as their behavior is often seen as a personal choice. 

Q: What criteria must be met for an ADHD diagnosis? 

A: The main symptoms include inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, posing challenges in settings like school and home for children. The criteria for ADHD diagnosis have evolved over the years. Currently, an individual must exhibit 6 out of 9 symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Additionally, these symptoms must disrupt functioning in at least two different areas, typically at home and school.

Thank you for reading; I hope you learned something new about ADHD today.