The Science Behind ADHD: Understanding Its Impact on the Brain
ADHD is a common mental health condition that many people across the world struggle with. Despite it being fairly common, it's a condition that not many people understand.
Due to this lack of information, there are many stereotypes. People who don't experience ADHD are unable to understand how it can impact a person. This means that ADHD is often misconstrued, or the people affected are often classified as being something they're not.
Having ADHD doesn't mean that a person lacks discipline, experienced bad parenting, or is lazy. Having ADHD means that one's brain is structured a bit differently when compared to the average person's.
Let's learn more about the science behind ADHD to better understand its impact on the brain.
Structure and Development
The structure of an ADHD brain differs from that of a person who doesn't have ADHD. These are some of the most common structural differences in an ADHD brain.
Connectivity
Connectivity issues are also a concern in ADHD brains. Individuals with ADHD experience heightened connectivity between some areas and structures within the brain.
Maturation
The brain of a child with ADHD tends to mature more slowly compared to a child who doesn't show any signs of having ADHD.
Regions
There are different regions in the brain that are small in volume in individuals who have ADHD. These areas include the amygdala, cerebellum, hippocampus, and the prefrontal cortex. The smaller size can cause these areas of the brain to not function as they normally would, which can bring on other signs and symptoms.
Size
People who are diagnosed with ADHD tend to have slightly smaller brains. This is especially seen in children, as their brains are still developing.
Function
ADHD can cause changes in the brain and the way that it functions. In fact, many of the signs and symptoms of ADHD relate to behavioral, cognitive, and motivational functioning. These symptoms include things like a lack of concentration, impulsivity, hyperactivity, disorganization, and not being able to manage one's emotions. These are some of the key differences in an ADHD brain when it comes to functioning.
The Prefrontal Cortex
The prefrontal cortex is the area of the brain that is responsible for keeping track of memories, planning, and making decisions. Due to the smaller size of the prefrontal cortex, it won't be able to perform to the best of its ability, which means there are lower activity levels in this area of the brain.
Dopamine Levels
Dopamine levels in the brain can cause additional challenges with staying focused and experiencing satisfaction from accomplishing tasks. These altered levels can impair the signal that is necessary for the motivation and reward system.
Communication
Communication can also be affected by the functional changes. The altered connection between the different areas of the brain can impact the way a person self-regulates and communicates with others.
Next Steps
Just because you have ADHD doesn't mean that you just have to go on with your life knowing and living through these challenges. You can work to help your brain rewire itself and improve on these basic functions and skills. These are just a few of the different ways that you can try to manage symptoms.
Direct your focus to one task at a time
Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet
Move your body
Take breaks
Practice mindfulness
If you've tried a few different ways to improve and you're not really seeing the results you're hoping for, seeking additional help may be a gain the right tools to better manage your signs and symptoms. A mental health professional can help you come up with coping mechanisms, tips, and tricks that work for you. Reach out today to learn more about ADHD Therapy.