What does ADHD stand for?

The prevalence regarding discussion of neurodivergence in pop culture has created more of a general awareness surrounding focus or inattentive-related difficulties. It’s important to assess what ADHD is vs what it is not. Contrary to popular belief, a general lack of focus doesn’t necessarily constitute ADHD. Let’s breakdown some key components of what ADHD consists of:

ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a mental health diagnosis that encapsulates numerous themes, including but not limited to troubles maintaining focus, maintaining linear goal-directed behavior, as well as troubles with hyperactivity at inopportune times. For many years, ADHD was often referred to as only a childhood diagnosis. Recent advocacy and awareness initiatives have acknowledged that ADHD can still be diagnosed as an adult even if the diagnosis wasn’t received during childhood. ADHD symptomatology exists on a spectrum, meaning that not all experiences of ADHD are the same. For instance, some individuals with ADHD have troubles with impulse control and not focus, while others have troubles completing tasks but are able to remain calm. ADHD can be broken down into 3 subtypes: inattentive, hyperactive, or combined types. Moreover, many individuals will often use the acronym “ADD” to refer to focus-related difficulties. ADD stands for attention deficit disorder, and is no longer recognized as a mental health diagnosis.

An assessment by a trained mental health professional can aid one in determining whether or not they meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Assessments typically involve a mental health professional inquiring with you regarding history of recurrent factors such as troubles maintaining routines, aspects of forgetfulness, as well as troubles maintaining focus on tasks that are disinteresting. If diagnosed with ADHD, a mental health professional can assist in employing therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): an evidenced-based practice that works well in aiding folks with ADHD navigating task completion, inattentiveness, or combined typologies. CBT works with folks experiencing ADHD to aid them in identifying certain thoughts that tend to lead to overwhelming emotions and/or maladaptive behaviors.