Almost everyone experiences symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at some point in their lives. You probably do not have ADHD if the symptoms are recent or have occurred only occasionally in the past. These symptoms begin and persist since childhood, before the age of 12.
Signs
Everyone loses focus or forgets things sometimes. It may be time to reach out when it has been part of your life since childhood and keeps getting in the way of work, school or relationships.
How counselling helps
Early on
You and your counsellor look at where focus, time and energy slip away for you, and what makes things easier or harder. This can ease years of self-blame.
As you go
Together you try practical tools, like breaking tasks into small steps, using reminders and setting up routines that work with your brain, not against it.
Over time
You work on goals that matter to you, such as work, school or relationships, and build kinder ways to talk to yourself when a plan goes off track.
Where
About
Almost everyone experiences symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at some point in their lives. You probably do not have ADHD if the symptoms are recent or have occurred only occasionally in the past. These symptoms begin and persist since childhood, before the age of 12. A diagnosis of ADHD suggests that symptoms are severe and cause continuing problems in more than one area of your life.
ADHD is typically characterised by impulse control, inability to focus, or pay attention. It is the most commonly diagnosed condition in young people. A 2016 survey shows 6% of children and teens aged 5-19 and 4% of adults are diagnosed with ADHD. What is shocking is that while the diagnosis is common among children, more than 80% of adults with ADHD have not been diagnosed or treated. People with ADHD also often experience other mental health concerns, such as anxiety, substance use, depression, OCD, panic, etc., which also causes misdiagnosis.
Range of Symptoms
ADHD symptoms are categorised as inattentiveness, hyperactivity/impulsiveness, or both of these combined. Examples of inattentiveness can involve challenges sustaining attention, disorganised thinking, difficulty in mental tasks, and forgetfulness, among others. Such inattentiveness can lead to mistakes, paralysing procrastination, and poor time management skills. Symptoms of hyperactivity/ impulsivity can include fidgeting, inability to engage in activities quietly, losing things, feeling restless, excessively talking and finding it challenging to wait.
Symptoms of ADHD appear distinctive at different ages. For instance, a school-aged child might experience difficulties with social interactions, academic problems or self-esteem issues. In contrast, an adolescent might experience excessive injury/ accidents, risky sexual behaviours, or issues with substance use. An adult might get into many vehicle accidents, experience relationship and substance use problems, and find it challenging to keep a job. Unproductive relationships and social interactions can induce more social isolation and a self-directed withdrawal from society.
Treatment & Counselling
Treatment for adult ADHD is similar to that used for childhood ADHD and may include medication, psychological counselling or psychotherapy, as well as support for any co-occurring mental health concerns.
Counselling helps individuals with ADHD to understand the factors and structures that influence their symptoms, and gives them tools to regulate and cope. While many types of therapies are adept at supporting behaviourally, they are also crucial in working on clients’ interpersonal relationships and communication patterns- both usually affected by ADHD.
Therapeutic groups focused on ADHD can also be helpful in improving a client’s understanding of the symptoms and facilitating interactions with others on the same journey.
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults alike, causing difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Here, we'll explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for ADD. We'll also discuss how counselling can help individuals and families affected by ADD.
Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD, is a condition that affects a person's ability to pay attention and focus, causing them to be easily distracted, forgetful, and disorganised. In this section, we'll explore the symptoms of ADD, how it affects individuals, and how it's diagnosed.
ADD can have several causes, including genetics, environment, and brain chemistry. In this section, we'll discuss the risk factors for developing ADD and the various environmental and social factors that contribute to the development of this disorder.
While there is no cure for ADD, there are several effective treatment options available. In this section, we'll discuss the different approaches to treating ADD, including medication, therapy, and behavioural interventions.
Counselling can be a powerful tool in helping individuals and families affected by ADD. A skilled therapist can work with individuals to develop strategies for managing symptoms, improving executive function, and building positive relationships. In this section, we'll discuss how counselling can help individuals and families affected by ADD, and how No Fear Counselling can provide the support and resources needed to overcome this disorder.
If you or someone you love is struggling with Attention Deficit Disorder, know that help is available. No Fear Counselling provides a safe and supportive space for individuals and families affected by ADD to work through their challenges and develop effective coping strategies. Contact us today to book a session and take the first step towards a brighter future.
Treatment focusing on an individual’s level and quality of communication with their environment has had a sustainable long-term effect on the severity of ADHD and whether the condition manifests at all. Psychotherapy can play a crucial role in helping the individual function better!
References
Biederman, J. (2004). Impact of comorbidity in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 65, 3-7.
Caye, A., Swanson, J., Thapar, A., Sibley, M., Arseneault, L., Hechtman, L., … & Rohde, L. A. (2016). Life span studies of ADHD—conceptual challenges and predictors of persistence and outcome. Current psychiatry reports, 18(12), 1-11.
Haverkampf, C. J. (2017). ADHD and Psychotherapy (2).
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2019, June 22). Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
FAQs
Can't find your answer? Ask us a question.
Counselling may help if trouble with focus, time or restlessness keeps getting in the way of your work, studies, home life or relationships. You do not need to be sure it is ADHD to reach out. You can talk through what you notice, and your counsellor will help you decide what kind of support fits you.
No, you do not need a diagnosis to start counselling. Some people come with a diagnosis, some are wondering about one, and some just want help with focus and planning. If you would like an assessment for ADHD or ADD, a doctor or nurse practitioner can tell you about your options.
Yes, counselling can sit alongside medication. Our counsellors focus on skills, routines, feelings and relationships, and they do not give advice about medication. For any question about starting, stopping or changing a medication or a dose, talk with your doctor or nurse practitioner.
You can ask about it, and you decide who joins and when. ADHD can affect the people you live with, for example around chores, plans or missed messages. Talking together can help everyone understand each other and share the load in a way that works. Our intake team can suggest counsellors who fit what you need.
Yes, you can meet your counsellor online from anywhere in BC, or in person in Burnaby, Vancouver or Surrey. Online sessions can mean less travel and fewer chances to run late. We also offer a free 15-minute consultation by phone or video, so you can ask questions before you decide.
From the blog
