Download this fact sheet here
Facts about ADHD
- ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has been clinically observed for more than 200 years
- ADHD is the most prevalent childhood psychiatric disorder in Canada
- There are three presentations of ADHD
- Predominately inattentive (previously referred to as ADD)
- Predominately hyperactive (very rare)
- Combined (most prevalent)
How ADHD affects individuals
- ADHD affects all aspects of one’s life – work, school, finances, and relationships
- Individuals with ADHD struggle in the following areas:
- Executive Functioning – planning, time management, organization, procrastination, motivation
- Emotional regulation – trouble regulating their emotions (can overreact to a situation, emotional outbursts)
- Attention – trouble regulating their attention (over focus/hyperfocus or under focus)
- Hyperactivity – may include fidgeting, taping, excessive talking, extreme restlessness, racing thoughts
- Impulse control – React without pausing to think, or poor inhibition control
ADHD Assessment
There are a variety of medical professionals that can assess/diagnose ADHD:
- Psychiatrist (Adult, Child and Adolescent) (with ADHD training)
- Psychologist (with ADHD training) – Psychologists do not prescribe medication
- Family Physician (with ADHD training)
- Pediatrician and/or Developmental Pediatrician
- Neurologist (with ADHD training)
Psychiatrists, Pediatricians and Neurologists require a referral from your family physician or a walk-in clinic. CHILD ADULT
ADHD Treatment
ADHD Treatment should always be multi-modal, meaning more than one treatment. Treatments include
- Psychoeducation – learning as much as you can about ADHD is an important first step to treatment
- Pharmacological – ADHD medication (READ MORE)
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy
- ADHD Coaching
- School and workplace Accommodations
- Mindfulness, Exercise, and Nutrition
For more information on Treatments use the following links CHILD ADULT
