What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. A behavioral disorder, ADHD greatly affects all aspects of an individual’s life, including their functioning and development.
The three key features of ADHD are restlessness, inattention, and hyperactivity. People with ADHD have trouble staying still, containing themselves to one task, and acting without thinking things through.
Whereas most cases are diagnosed early on, especially around the time children start school, there are many people whose ADHD remains undiagnosed until adulthood.
Even though ADHD therapy and medication are effective in managing the condition, it can still adversely affect the individual’s quality of life. ADHD can also lead to other health issues like sleep problems and anxiety.
Types and symptoms of ADHD
The symptoms of ADHD present differently in adults and children, but the condition develops during childhood. It is recommended that expert help be sought if the symptoms are observed for over 6 months and are present in varying environments.
Moreover, the symptoms are on a spectrum, with people experiencing varying combinations and degrees of ADHD indicators. The exact presentation of the symptoms can also vary as per the type of ADHD.
There are three types of ADHD:
- Predominantly inattentive, also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD)
- Predominantly hyperactive
- Combined
Signs of predominantly inattentive type:
- Making careless mistakes
- Having difficulty being attentive during tasks
- Not paying attention, even when directly spoken to
- Difficulty completing tasks
- Struggling to follow instructions
- Difficulty being organized
- Problems with keeping track of time and deadlines
- Avoiding things that require a longer attention span
- Losing things
- Getting distracted easily
- Being forgetful
- Constantly switching between activities and chores
- Difficulty in completing tasks
Signs of predominantly hyperactive type:
- Fidgeting
- Not staying still
- Lacking discipline
- Difficulty keeping quiet and interrupting others
- Moving about constantly
- Being impulsive
- Acting without thinking through
- Interrupting people during conversation
- Issues waiting, especially for their turn
- Intruding on others
- Problems concentrating
- Lacking a sense of danger
- Exhibiting socially inappropriate behavior at times
Signs of combined type:
People with this type of ADHD exhibit symptoms related to inattentiveness and hyperactivity.
ADHD in adults
A high number of adults with ADHD are under or undiagnosed, primarily due to a lack of research, training deficiencies of healthcare professionals, and societal stigma. According to one study, ADHD prevalence in UAE stands between 4.1 and 12.5%. The symptoms also are not as well defined as they are for children.
Causes of ADHD
The exact causes of ADHD are not known. Whereas some research shows people with ADHD having slight differences in brain structure, the correlation has yet to be established.
Some factors can, however, heighten the risk of ADHD. These include:
- Family history of ADHD
- Trauma to the head, even in the womb
- Imbalance in neurotransmitters
- Low birth weight
- Premature birth
- Exposure to toxins, including lead
- Being born to mothers who consumed alcohol, smoked, or experienced high stress during pregnancy
ADHD Treatment
There is, at present, no cure for the condition. ADHD treatment in UAE aims at helping people manage the condition better. It is composed of medication and ADHD therapy.
Medication
The purpose of medication is to curb impulsiveness and improve attentiveness. The treatment protocol suggests using psychostimulants initially. These include:
- Methylphenidate
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Dexamfetamine
Some other medications that can be prescribed include:
- Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) like Atomoxetine
- Nonstimulants like Viloxazine
- Alpha agonists like Guanfacine
It is important to note that medications carry side effects, and one must work with a healthcare professional to develop a regimen that works best for them.
ADHD Therapy
Therapy is an effective way to manage the condition. An ADHD therapist can utilize different therapies to improve the symptoms. These include:
Behavioral Therapy
It aims at altering the way one behaves. It helps in making people less impulsive and improving their ability to complete tasks and handle other practical matters.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT allows people to change the way they behave and think. It is effective in improving attention and focus.
Psychoeducation
The purpose of psychoeducation is to help people with ADHD come to terms with their condition and cope with it better.
Social skills training
Since ADHD has a negative impact on the social skills of people, this type of training helps teach people how to wait, share, communicate properly, etc.
Parent training
Since parents are primary caregivers, it is also important for them to learn how to help their child navigate the condition. Therapies like Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and stress management techniques allow parents to develop an ecosystem that supports their child’s wellbeing.
To further explore how these therapy solutions can help you book an online talk sessions with our certified therapists for ADHD treatment Dubai.
Help for ADHD in UAE
ADHD has a negative impact on all aspects of life, alongside increasing risk for other ailments. Thus, seeking ADHD treatment in Dubai is imperative for all diagnosed with the condition. If one observes the symptoms of the condition, consulting an expert for a diagnosis is a must.
ADHD treatment in Dubai
ADHD treatment involves medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Counsel Clinic allows you to get online therapy sessions with licensed ADHD therapists from home or on the go. To get ADHD treatment in Dubai get in touch with us today and we will match you with a therapist best suited for your needs.
Contact us on WhatsApp at +971525609479 to schedule an online therapy session with our experienced ADHD therapists, counsellors, and psychologists so you can get the treatment you need to improve the quality of your life.
