ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly diagnosed in childhood but often persists into adolescence and adulthood. It is typified by impulsive, hyperactive, and inattentive habits that impair functioning in relationships, the workplace, school, and the family. Early diagnosis and consistent management can significantly improve quality of life.

Psychowellness Center, a leading mental health care facility in West Delhi, provides an integrative and evidence-based approach to ADHD treatment. The expert team focuses on understanding the unique challenges each individual faces and designs personalized intervention plans aimed at enhancing attention, emotional control, and behavioral regulation.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), one of the key therapeutic tools, is used to improve executive functioning, reduce impulsivity, and develop self-monitoring strategies. At Psychowellness Center, the emphasis is not only on symptom control but also on promoting self-esteem, academic success, and adaptive life skills. With expert guidance and compassionate care, individuals with ADHD can lead productive and fulfilling lives.

Signs and Symptoms

ADHD symptoms are broadly classified into two categories: Inattention and Hyperactivity-Impulsivity. Individuals may exhibit symptoms from either or both categories.

Inattentive Symptoms

  • Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play

  • Frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork or work

  • appearing uninterested in listening, especially when directly addressed

  • Trouble organizing tasks and activities

  • Avoidance of tasks requiring sustained mental effort

  • Frequently losing items necessary for tasks (e.g., books, keys)

  • Easily distracted by external stimuli

  • Forgetfulness in daily routines

Hyperactive-Impulsive Symptoms

  • Fidgeting or tapping hands and feet

  • Inability to stay seated when expected

  • Running or climbing in inappropriate situations (in children)

  • Inability to play or engage in activities quietly

  • Talking excessively

  • Blurting out answers before questions are completed

  • Difficulty waiting for one’s turn

  • Interrupting or intruding on others

Types of ADHD

According to DSM-5-TR, ADHD is classified into three presentations:

  • ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: Symptoms mainly involve inattention (formerly known as ADD).

  • ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: Symptoms mainly involve hyperactivity and impulsivity.

  • ADHD, Combined Presentation: There are notable signs of both hyperactivity-impulsivity and inattention.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Clinical Interview and History Taking

  • Comprehensive assessment of behavior patterns across different settings

  • Consideration of developmental, educational, and family history

Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5-TR)

  • Symptoms must be present before age 12

  • Symptoms must persist for at least six months

  • must show impairment in two or more contexts.

Psychological Assessments and Tools

  • Conners’ Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scales

  • Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scales

  • ADHD Rating Scale IV

  • Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC)

Medical Tests

  • Used to rule out other conditions mimicking ADHD (e.g., vision/hearing problems, sleep disorders)

  • Neurological or developmental evaluations if needed

Causes

Though the precise causes of ADHD are not fully understood, multiple factors are associated with its development:

Biological Factors

  • Dysfunction in brain areas responsible for attention and impulse control

  • Neurochemical imbalances, especially involving dopamine and norepinephrine

Genetic Factors

  • Strong hereditary component; higher likelihood in first-degree relatives

Psychosocial and Environmental Factors

  • Prenatal exposure to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs

  • Premature birth or low birth weight

  • Early exposure to environmental toxins (e.g., lead)

Chaotic or stressful early life environment

Treatment of ADHD

ADHD is a manageable condition. A multimodal approach, including medication, behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, and lifestyle support, is considered most effective.

1. Medication

Prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist, medication helps regulate attention and behavior.
 Types include:

  • Stimulants (e.g., Methylphenidate, Amphetamines)

  • Non-Stimulants (e.g., Atomoxetine, Guanfacine)

2. Psychotherapy

Helps children, teens, and adults manage emotional challenges, improve focus, and build self-regulation skills.

How Therapy Works

Goals of Therapy

  • Improve attention and task completion

  • Manage impulsivity and emotional outbursts

  • Enhance organization and time management

  • Build self-esteem and social skills

  • Support parents and caregivers

Evidence-Based Therapies

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Focuses on managing thoughts and behaviors

  • Improves problem-solving and emotional control

Behavior Therapy

  • Uses reinforcement strategies to encourage desired behaviors

  • Involves parents and teachers for consistency across settings

Parent Management Training (PMT)

  • Equips parents with strategies to reinforce positive behaviors

  • Helps manage challenging behaviors at home

Social Skills Training

  • Teaches interpersonal skills, turn-taking, and emotional expression

  • Especially helpful for children struggling with peer relationships

Psychoeducation

  • Educates individuals and families about ADHD, treatment options, and coping strategies

  • Encourages adherence to therapy and medication plans

Online Counselling

Free Self-Assessment

info@psychowellnesscenter.com
+91 98106 36188
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