You are not alone…

Whether you are living with or caring for someone who has ADHD, my support and therapy services are here to help you thrive.

I provide compassionate, personalized therapy tailored to your needs.

Start your journey towards better mental health and well-being today, visit my contact page.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder which affects the way the brain functions leading to difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These impairments can range from mild, allowing individuals to live relatively normal lives, to severe, necessitating lifelong support.

People with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have usually experienced these difficulties since childhood although they may only be diagnosed as adults.

Symptoms of ADHD and ADD

  • Struggling with attention and focus

  • Poor working memory and recall

  • Poor time management

  • A need for constant stimulation and novelty

  • Low tolerance to boredom and frustration

  • Difficulties in regulating emotions

  • Disorganisation

  • Difficulties in completing school or work tasks

  • Being fidgety, restless or hyperactive

  • Talking excessively

  • Impulsivity

  • A sense that life is unrewarding

  • A lack of having a clear sense of self or identity

  • Poor self-esteem and shame

This condition can cause problems with:

  • Emotional regulation

  • Impulse control

  • Anger management

  • Substance abuse

  • Eating problems

  • Sleep disorders

ADHD/ADD can seriously impact a person’s education, work, daily activities, relationships and quality of life.

You have a greater probability of having ADHD if:

  • A close family member has been diagnosed with ADHD

  • You have epilepsy

  • You have another mental health condition

  • You have a history of substance misuse or eating disorders

When should I seek help for ADHD?

Often people will have had their ADHD picked up in childhood, but sometimes this is not the case. If you are struggling with your attention and ability to focus and these symptoms are negatively impacting your life, then it might be helpful to you to seek an assessment for ADHD as well as therapeutic support. I will be able to refer you to a specialist who can assess whether you have ADD/ADHD or an ADD/ADHD assessment service.

Which treatments are most effective for ADHD?

The most effective treatments for ADHD (Atten-Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder) generally involve a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Here is a detailed overview of these treatments:

Medication

Medication is often the first line of treatment for ADHD and can be highly effective in managing symptoms. There are two main categories of ADHD medications:

a. Stimulants

Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and include:

  • Methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta)

  • Amphetamines (e.g., Adderall, Vyvanse)

These medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve attention and focus while reducing hyperactive and impulsive behaviours.

b. Non-Stimulants

Non-stimulant medications are an alternative for individuals who do not respond well to stimulants or experience significant side effects. These include:

  • Atomoxetine (Strattera)

  • Guanfacine (Intuniv)

  • Clonidine (Kapvay)

Non-stimulants also affect neurotransmitter activity but in different ways compared to stimulants, often providing a more gradual improvement in symptoms.

Therapy

Therapy is another critical component of ADHD treatment. People who have ADHD are often confused about what they think and feel as well as the underlying triggers for their impulsive behaviour and actions. Therapy can help individuals to think, find words for their impulses, moods, feelings and worries thereby enabling them to understand themselves better and gain more control over their condition and life. Key areas of focus include:

  • Emotional Regulation: To understand emotional responses and reduce impulsive behaviour.

Psychoeducation and Support

Education about ADHD is crucial for both individuals with ADHD and their families. Understanding the condition helps in developing realistic expectations and strategies for managing symptoms.

Lifestyle modifications

Several lifestyle changes can support the effectiveness of medical and behavioural treatments:

  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity.

  • Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being and brain function.

  • Adequate Sleep: Ensuring sufficient and regular sleep patterns can significantly impact attention and behaviour.

  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like mindfulness meditation can improve focus and reduce stress.

Support Systems

Joining support groups or therapy sessions can provide social support and shared experiences that can be beneficial in managing ADHD.

If you suspect you may have ADHD and would like to explore this with me please request an initial meeting via my contact page.