October is ADHD Awareness Month, which has the aim of educating the public about ADHD by disseminating reliable information based on the evidence of science and peer-reviewed research.
A coalition of organisations are responsible for a range of events around the world: the ADHD Organisation (ACO); the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) and the Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHASDD). Their goal is to generate hope, awareness, empowerment and connections worldwide in the field of ADHD. ADDA brings together scientific perspectives and the human experience.
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people’s behaviour. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse. For a long time it was only recognised as a childhood issue that affects focus, self-control and many other important skills. However, it has recently been recognised as an adult problem too. People with ADHD may also have additional problems, such as sleep and anxiety disorders.
Symptoms of ADHD
The symptoms of ADHD fall into 2 types of behavioural problems:
- Inattentiveness
Symptoms that fall into this category include:
- a short attention span
- easily distracted
- making careless mistakes – for example, in schoolwork
- appearing forgetful or losing things
- being unable to stick to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming
- appearing to be unable to listen to or carry out instructions
- constantly changing activity or task
- poor organisation
- Hyperactivity and impulsiveness
Symptoms that fall into this category include:
- being unable to sit still
- constantly fidgeting
- being unable to concentrate on tasks
- excessive physical movement
- excessive talking
- being unable to wait their turn
- acting without thinking
- interrupting conversations
- little or no sense of danger
Most people have symptoms that fall into both categories but this is not true for 100% of people.
What causes ADHD?
We don’t know what causes ADHD but research has identified a number of possible differences in the brains of people with ADHD when compared with those without the condition.
Living with ADHD
For adults living with ADHD, it can be incredibly disruptive. However, there are different ways to manage ADHD so you can minimise the disruption.
For example, if you find it hard to remember things and stay organised, set aside time each day to plan out what you have to do that day. Diaries, calendars and notebooks can be incredibly useful in helping you stay on top of things.
Exercise is a great way to let off steam and get rid of any pent up energy.
Informing your employer of your condition can relieve any stress and anxiety you have about it and they may be able to make allowances for you, such as a flexible work day.
Trying various relaxation techniques such as meditating or just listening to music can be beneficial in helping you relax.
Joining a local support group can be a great way to share stories and any tips and advice from others in a similar situation.
NAD+ therapy for ADHD
Studies have shown that NAD+ can increase brain performance in those with ADHD by up to 25% in the areas of the brain used for cognitive functioning; improving focus, concentration and memory.
It makes sense as NAD+ IV therapy is already used to promote brain restoration and can help conditions of the brain such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders and diseases such as Alzheimer’s. NAD+ can also be beneficial in treating associated symptoms of ADHD such as anxiety and insomnia.
NAD+ IV infusion therapy can’t get rid of ADHD but by targeting some of the unwanted side effects and symptoms it’s possible to improve quality of life and experience a much more manageable and enjoyable day-to-day life.
