adult adhd 101 - untapped brilliance

Adult ADHD 101By Jacqueline Sinfield

Important Note

The information contained in this book is not a substitute for any

recommendations or advice of your doctor or medical professional. They must

always be consulted before commencement of any new diet, exercise or lifestyle

change.

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield

· Table of Contents ·

Adults have ADHD?

How Many People have ADHD?

Is ADHD real?

What causes ADHD?

Should I get diagnosed?

Why do I feel so emotional now I have been diagnosed with ADHD?

What if the people in your life aren’t support of your diagnosis?

Comorbid conditions that exist with ADD

Should you tell people about having ADHD?

Treating ADHD

Do I have to take ADHD Medication?

What about ADHD and Dopamine?

Which professionals should you work with?

Are you Annoyed you have ADHD?

Congratulations!!!

About the Author


Have your recently been diagnosed with ADHD? Do you strongly suspect

you have ADHD, but haven’t been officially diagnosed yet? Are you feeling a

bit overwhelmed and don’t know where to start on your ADHD journey? If

you answered yes to any of those questions, this book is for you!

When you first find out you have ADHD, you might feel a huge sense of

relief because it explains why you are the way you are. That is quickly

followed by a ‘Now what?’ feeling. You want to make changes to your life

with this new piece of information, but it’s a little daunting to know what to

do first. You might have a lot of questions, or you might not know what

questions you need to ask.

You can end up feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, lonely and not know

where to begin. This book is the start! At times in my life when I have been

faced with a challenge, I always head to the bookstore for answers, which is

why I decided to write this book for you. To help you navigate the practical

and the emotional first steps on your ADHD journey.

‘Adult ADHD 101’ is based on my 10 years of experience working with

adults with ADHD. It answers all common questions, concerns and issues

that arise in those first few weeks and months after realizing you have

ADHD.

How to use this book

You don't have to read the book from cover to cover (I know that is a

challenge for ADHDers). Instead, look at the index and select the topics that

are interesting to you now. Each time you pick the book up, different

sections will be relevant. Use it as a guide or instruction manual to navigate

this new topic and phrase of your life as they arise.


Adults have ADHD?

The general public is often surprised to learn that Adults can have ADHD.

While most people are aware children have ADHD, they don’t realize it also

affects adults too. However, ADHD doesn’t disappear on your 18th

birthday! What does happen is, hyperactivity lessens with age, and adults

develop coping strategies; both consciously and unconsciously to help

them succeed in the world. It means that ADHD is less visible to the casual

observer.

Information on ADHD is growing all the time, but because relatively little

was known about it 30 years ago, many adults don’t realize they have it

until adulthood. A common way adults discover they have ADHD is that

their school-aged child is diagnosed with ADHD. The parent then realizes,

that the ADHD characteristics that their child is presenting with, are also

characteristics that they also have.

Another group of adults realize that they experience challenges in life and

they feel different from everyone else. After doing some research,

stumbling across an article or watching a show (ADD and Loving It and The

Dr. Oz Show are 2 of the more common shows) about ADHD symptoms,

they will promptly get a diagnosis.

Reactions to discovering you have ADHD vary dramatically, but usually fall

into 2 groups. Some adults feel very relieved finally, as they understand

why they are the way they are. Others feel angry that it took them so many

years of struggling with life before they realized what it was it. Usually

whatever the initial reaction, everyone wants the same thing, which is to

learn how they can best live their life.


Some adults have known since childhood that they have ADHD. However,

what they are now experiencing are different challenges. Learning skills on

how to do well in school, are now replaced with the need to learn how to

do well in a work environment, manage a household and take care of

finances etc.


How Many People have ADHD?

The official statistic is that 3-5% of the population in the United States have

ADHD. In reality, that number is probably higher because many people are

living with undiagnosed ADHD. Despite ADHD still being under diagnosed,

it can feel like more people than ever before have ADHD. There are a few

reasons why it seems like that.

1) This is due to an increased knowledge and awareness about ADHD, both

in the medical profession and the general public. The general public know

enough about ADHD to recognize they might have it; and the medical

profession know more, so are able to accurately diagnosis it. Both of which

are very good things.

2) Our lifestyle has changed dramatically in the last 100 years and jobs

require people to sit still for longer periods of time. This is a challenge that

forces a person to seek help, when in another job environment, it wouldn’t

have been an issue.

3) Babies born prematurely or with a low birth weight are at an increased

risk of having ADHD. Thanks to modern medicine, more and more of these

babies are surviving and thriving than in the past.

What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

ADD and ADHD are often used interchangeably and it can get a little

confusing. However, it is really a question of terminology. Over the years as

more is learned about ADHD (the current official term), the name has

changed to reflect the most recent findings.


In 1980, ADD was the term used to describe someone who had Attention

Deficit Disorder and ADHD was the term used to describe a person who

has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Prior to 1980, ADHD was of

course present but was called a wide range of things, most of which would

be considered highly insulting if they were used today.

Then in 1987, ADHD became official term for anyone who was diagnosed

with what was previously ADD and ADHD. It was at this time that the

American Psychiatric Association stated that ADHD was a medical diagnosis

(rather than psychological) that could cause behavioural issues.

In the recently updated, 2013 publication of Diagnostic and Statistical

Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V), The National Institute of Mental

Health, (or NIMH) stated that the definition of ADHD is a “Disruptive

Behaviour Disorder”, where high levels of inattention, hyperactivity or a

combination are constantly present in an individual.

3 Types ADHD have been identified, which are:

ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive Type: Is characterized by mainly

inattention, and so, people have problems focusing, completing tasks, are

easily distracted and seem forgetful, disorganized and careless.

ADHD-Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Is characterized

mainly by hyperactivity and impulsivity. Paying attention is not a major

problem. However, they seem to act and speak before thinking, have lots of

energy and always on the go.

ADHD-Combined Type: In this instance, characteristics on both inattentive

and hyperactive/impulsivity are present.


Even though ADHD is the official title, ADD and ADHD are the same thing,

confusion continues because many people use ADD and ADHD

interchangeably (including me). Medical journals regularly still use ADD and

people who were diagnosed in the early to mid-1980′s with ADD, identify

strongly with that term, not ADHD.


Is ADHD real?

There is a lot of skepticism about ADHD (usually among those that don’t

have it); that it is being over-diagnosed or that it’s a modern illness that

drug companies have created.

The truth is that there is historical evidence of what we now refer to as

ADHD as far back as 93 BC. The Greek physician and scientist, Hippocrates,

described a condition featuring ‘quickened responses to sensory

experience, but also less tenaciousness because the soul moves on quickly

to the next impression’.

In his book, An Inquiry into the Nature and Origin of Mental Derangement,

which he wrote in 1798, Sir Alexander Crichton refers to hyperactivity as

“mental restlessness”.

In 1902, the British doctor (whose name is ironically) Dr. Still, made

reference to cases of impulsiveness.


What causes ADHD?

The evidence that has been gathered shows that genetic, biological, and

environmental factors all play a role in ADD.

Genetic studies found that there is a strong genetic component to ADD. For

example, if one member of the family has ADD, there is a high probability

at least one other member also has it.

It is thought that genes DAT1 (dopamine transporter) and DRD4 (dopamine

receptor) are involved. However, a child can inherit ADHD genes and not

have ADHD. This is because a combination of both genes and the

environment determines if the ADHD genes are activated.

The biological factors include differences in the ADHD brain compared to

the non-ADHD brain.

Anatomical differences: differences in the size and function of the corpus

callosum which connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres and

mediates communication between the two.

Also, irregularities are found in the basal ganglia (which are associated with

motor control, cognition and learning).

Chemical differences:

ADHD is associated with impaired functioning of certain neurotransmitters,

particularly dopamine and norepinephrine.

Functional differences:

Brain functioning differences in people with ADHD have been found in the

frontal lobes, limbic system and parietal lobe.


Environmental factors also play a part. These non-genetic factors include

anything that will affect brain development from prenatal to childhood. For

example, low birth weight, brain injury, prenatal contact with alcohol, lack

of oxygen at birth, etc. The biggest environmental factor influencing the

expression of ADHD is maternal smoking.

Researchers have also been able to identify that sugar, food additives and

allergies do NOT cause ADD. Nor is ADD caused by parenting style or a

busy life style.

What are the Characteristics of Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive

ADHD?

It’s one thing to know in theory that you have ADHD, but when people see

this list of characteristics, they often have many “light bulb” moments

because they didn’t realize all the subtle ways ADHD shows up in them.

Hyperactivity

1) Always in motion. Even when sitting, you are fidgeting with your hands or

your feet are tapping

2) Have a restless / aggravated feeling inside (sometimes to the point of

pain) when a social situation requires ‘stillness’ e.g. long conversations,

lectures, dinner, etc.

3) Multi-task (do many things at once) but not necessarily effectively


4) Feel bored a lot of the time

5) Talks a lot! …more than anyone else you know

6) Your mind is always racing and you have millions of thoughts

7) Crave excitement

8) Take risks in order to relieve boredom and feel alive

9) Drive MUCH faster than the speed limit, particularly on highways

Impulsivity

10) Experience a low level of self-control

11) Feel impatient when dealing with ‘slow’ people

12) Answer a person before they have finished speaking

13) Have a reputation for being rude, or not interested in other people

14) Say things without thinking and can offend people

15) Difficulty understanding others’ personal boundaries (physical or

emotional)


16) Unlikely to finish an entire book

17) Act spontaneously. This can put yourself and others in physical danger

18) Prone to addictions


What are the Characteristics of Predominantly Inattentive ADHD?

Here are 15 characteristics you could be experiencing if you have

inattentive ADHD:

1) Hard for you to focus, yet you can be physically still

2) Don’t appear to listen to others during conversations

3) Those close to you complain you forget things they shared with you

4) Disorganized in your physical environment

5) Find it hard to stay on task from beginning to end, and even harder if the

task is boring

6) Make careless errors despite your best intentions

7) Detailed tasks, for example taxes, are exceptionally challenging and

stressful

8) You find it hard to follow verbal or written instructions

9) Often late for or miss appointments

10) Lose important items often, like: keys, wallets and passports

11) People would describe you as a day dreamer

12) Find it hard to block out noise

13)


http://untappedbrilliance.com/time-management-tip

13) Experience fatigue

14) You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘Could try harder” a lot a school (even

if you were trying)

15) Prone to Procrastination

Combined Type

Remember that some people have the combined type and experience both

hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive ADHD.


Should I get diagnosed?

Getting an ADHD diagnosis is incredibly empowering at whatever your age.

It explains why you are the way you are and why certain aspects of life are

more challenging for you than other people. Armed with this knowledge

about yourself, you can start to make changes in your life and your

confidence and self-esteem will flourish. It would be such a shame not to

have this self-awareness.

How is ADHD Diagnosed?

The interesting and sometimes confusing thing about ADHD is that

everyone experiences ADHD characteristics at times particularly when they

are stressed or feeling overwhelmed. Procrastination, distraction, arriving

late, disorganisation, etc. are things we all experience at times in our lives.

But that doesn’t mean everyone has ADHD.

For a person with ADHD, it’s the amount of these traits that are present and

the extent that they negatively affect their life.

ADHD is usually diagnosed by a psychologist or psychiatrist that specializes

in ADHD. The official definition of ADHD is described as a “Disruptive

Behavior Disorder”, where high levels of inattention, hyperactivity or a

combination are constantly present in an individual. Adult ADHD symptoms

are different to that of a child with ADHD. However, please don’t be scared;

the official term sounds MUCH worse than reality.

Being diagnosed with ADHD is very different than getting another type of

diagnosis. There isn’t a blood test that you can take, which gets tested in a

lab and 24 hours later, your results come back positive or negative.


Getting your ADD diagnosed is more lengthy and complex. However, it is

worth the time and effort. When you know exactly what you are dealing

with, you can treat it properly and misdiagnosis can be avoided; which can

save years of unnecessary problems.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

(DSM IV), the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis to be made is...

- Characteristics have been present for 6 months or more

- The symptoms were present before you were 7 years old

- The traits affect your life in 2 or more settings (e.g. home and work)

- And finally, the symptoms aren’t due to another condition, such as bipolar

disorder, sleep disorder or anxiety, etc.

To find this out, the clinician doing the testing becomes a bit of a detective,

and gathers as much information about you as they can. They then piece it

all together to create a picture of your childhood, your health your family’s

health history, your current life and challenges.

They get this information primarily from you, but they also might ask your

family members, (with your permission) to fill out questionnaires about

you. This helps to get a broader picture as other people such as, parents

and siblings can remember items you might have forgotten. The clinician is

trying to put together a picture of your life.

They are also trying to discover how you operate in different areas. For

example, home and work and school. If you have school report cards, they


are very helpful, as are work evaluations. Your partner might be invited to

go for an interview or fill out a questionnaire. The clinician will also want to

rule out conditions that look like ADD; for example, bipolar or sleep

problems.

The diagnosis is often done over a couple of visits, so that you feel fresh

and alert for the appointments and to give you time to get the

questionnaires completed.

Each professional uses slightly different methods; however, many also test

your working memory, because how that works relates to how severe your

ADD is. Don’t worry about the test; just do your best. Remember, the more

information the doctor has the more accurate your diagnosis will be.

At the end of the testing, you will know if you have ADHD.


Why do I feel so emotional now I have been diagnosed

with ADHD?

When you first get the official news that you have ADHD, you can be

flooded with different emotions: Happy, sad, angry and depressed. Don’t

worry, this is normal.

I have adapted the ’5 Stages of Grief’ (a model identified by Elisabeth

Kübler-Ross, M.D.) to describe the emotional journey that adults with ADHD

go through when they are first diagnosed with ADHD.

Everyone processes their ADHD diagnosis slightly different. Some people

spend longer in one stage than another. Some whizz through all the stages

while for others the processing takes longer. But, no one neatly goes

through one stage to the next; there is a lot of jumping around.

Here are the 5 stages:

1) Euphoria. It might last minutes, or days. It comes from you finding out

that there is an explanation for why you are the way you are; that you

aren’t crazy and there is a name for your struggles.

2) Disbelieve. Finding out you have ADHD gives you a greater

understanding of yourself. But, it also shakes your self-identity to core. You

have to rebuild your sense of self with this new knowledge. You might also

question if the person who tested you got it right.

3) Anger. The anger can be at yourself, at others in your life or both. Why

didn’t I find this out sooner? Why didn’t the people who love me notice this

sooner?


4) Depression. A sense of loss of what could have been. You might find

yourself thinking that your life would have been easier, happier, more

successful, richer, etc., if you had known this years ago.

5) Acceptance and hope. This is where you embrace the new part of you.

You realize that the gifts you have are related to ADHD. That without ADHD,

you wouldn’t be the person you are today.

I don’t have ADHD; however, I was 28 years old when I found out I had

severe dyslexia. This is how the stages played out in my life: During the first

24 hours, I was (1) exceptionally happy almost ‘high’. I had always thought

my struggles were because I wasn’t clever, then I found out this wasn’t the

case. The next emotions were (2) disbelieve and (3) anger. The detailed

report by the psychologist didn’t match who I thought I was. I was really

angry it had taken me 28 years to find this out. The anger disappeared, and

was replaced with (4) depression. The disbelief continued. All the awful

moments for school days kept replaying in my head. Then came (5)

acceptance; finally, I realised that I couldn’t waste any more of my life. I

made a decision not to struggle any more. I made changes in my life to

work with my strengths (which is what I encourage everyone with ADHD to

do too). I made peace with every part of who I was.

ADHD isn’t life threatening. But, it does come with a wide range of

emotions. Rather than try to suppress them and pretend they aren’t there,

acknowledge each emotion when it appears. Not only is this healthy, but it

helps the emotion to pass quicker.


Don’t judge yourself or your emotions. You are unique; so are your

emotions. There is no right or wrong way to feel. If you are feeling it, accept

that it’s important for you to be feeling that emotion at this time.

Be extra kind and gentle with yourself during this time.


What if the people in your life aren’t support of your

diagnosis?

As well as looking after your own emotions when you first find out you

have ADHD, you maybe find that you have to manage the people in your

life too.

Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, is a life changing event. Like all life

changing events, you want to share the experience and get support from

your family and friends. So it can come as a shock to discover that your

nearest and dearest might not be very supportive.

Even though they love you, they say things like:

“You managed this long without knowing, why do you want to know now?”

“I don’t believe ADHD exists.”

“Well, it doesn’t change your day-to-day reality.”

“Of course, that was going to be the result; that is how those people make a

living.”

These comments feel rude and hurtful. You might wonder why being

diagnosed would upset them; when they already know all about your

behaviors and ADHD characteristics. All that has changed is the knowledge

that those behaviours fall under the ADHD umbrella.

For you, getting a diagnosis helps you to understand why you are the way

you are. For them, it triggers some emotions. Here are 5 common reasons

why the people in your life aren’t supportive of your ADHD Diagnosis:


Your Parents

1) Parents feel guilty that they didn’t notice you had ADHD as you were

growing up; even though so much less was known about ADHD twenty plus

years ago. However, the guilt is still there.

2) They love you so much they don’t want to think of their child as anything,

but perfect.

Partner (wife, husband, etc.)

3) They don’t want things to change. Even though living with your

undiagnosed ADHD wasn’t always easy, they know how to do that. Change,

even good change can be threatening. They might worry you won’t need

them so much in the future and stop loving them.

4) They think you will use ADHD as an excuse to get out of your

responsibilities and they will have to do more.

Everyone, including parents, partner and friends

5) Scared of ADHD medication. There is lots of negative press about ADHD

meds and some people get very scared that bad things will happen to their

loved ones if they take it.


While it is upsetting that the people you love can’t be there for you during

this new stage of your life, it does help to know that you aren’t on your

own. This is a common reaction. However, don’t let it stop you from getting

support. There are tons of ways to connect with others and learn about

ADHD.

Here are 10 suggestions:

1) Find a support group in your area

2) Join an ADHD Meet-Up group

3) Attend conferences; my favourite is CHADD’s Annual International

Conference

4) Read or listen to books on ADHD

5) Listen / Download ADHD podcasts

6) Join online ADHD forums

7) Join ADHD Facebook groups

8) Hire an ADHD Coach

9) Work with a therapist who knows about ADHD

10) Find ADHD blogs and leave comments under posts you enjoy. This is a

great way to connect with and share tips with other ADHD readers

Visit http://untappedbrilliance.com. It’s a great place to kick start getting the

support you need.


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Comorbid conditions that exist with ADD

I don’t know about you, but I find the term ‘Comorbid’ a grim term. I am

sure it would have been possible to come up with a more cheery

description of an ‘individual that has more than one medical condition that

exists both independently and at the same time.’

However, regardless of the term, if you have Adult ADHD, there is a 75%

chance that you have another condition and that condition could also affect

your attention. Below is a list of the most common conditions that exist

with ADD.

Here are the other conditions:

1) Depression

Struggling with unmanaged ADD is difficult so it’s not surprising as many as

16-30% of adults with ADD experience a major depression and 20-37% mild

depression.

2) Anxiety

Statistics show that 50% of adults with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder.

An anxiety disorder could be Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD),

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Social phobia or

specific phobias, such as fear of flying or fear of spiders, etc.

3) Bipolar Disorder

Around 20% of adults with ADD also have Bipolar disorder. It can mimic

symptoms of ADD and like ADD; it is heredity.


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4) Sleep difficulties

People with ADD find it hard to fall asleep because their mind is

overworking. They also find it hard to wake up in the morning and it takes

them a while to ‘get going’. While insomnia is the most well-known sleeping

difficulty, the other common ones for ADHD adults are Teeth Grinding,

Sleep Apnea and Restless Leg Syndrome.

5) Learning Disabilities

People with ADHD have an increased likelihood of also having a learning

disability.

6) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Dr. Hallowell believes that most people with ADD have a mild form of PTSD

because if left unmanaged, ADHD can mean repeated traumas, humiliation,

rejection and failures.

Remember, if you do have one or more of these conditions along with

ADHD, there is good news. When you start to treat and manage ADHD,

issues with these conditions very often improve greatly too.

This list isn’t to panic you! Instead, it’s to keep you informed and

knowledgeable about all aspects of ADHD.


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Should you tell people about having ADHD?

When you first discover you have ADHD, you might be tempted to shout

the news from the rooftops because you are thrilled to know this new piece

of information about yourself. It explains why you are the way you are and

why ‘simple’ things that other people find easy, are difficult for you. You

might feel relief, excitement and want other people to hear the good news.

But before you tell anyone, please proceed with caution.

Even though we know more about ADHD than ever before, there are still a

lot of misperceptions, negativity, and prejudice again ADHD. People have

been denied insurance, promotion and faced prejudice at colleges or

universities because they shared their diagnosis. None of these things are

politically correct and can be fought, but that takes a lot of time and

strength to do.

Even well-meaning people in your life, might just see the label ‘ADHD’

rather than the whole of you including your unique qualities and strengths.

Of course, tell your nearest and dearest, but beyond them, carefully

consider who else you share your news with.

However, what you can do with everyone in your life is to address your

symptoms. Develop a really good understanding of how ADHD affects you

and then think of ways that will support you to perform at your best.

For example, if you know your memory for details is poor and a work

colleague asks you something as you are rushing out, you could say,

“Would you mind emailing me that request? My mind is so full right now

and I really don’t forget it.”


If it’s difficult for you to pay attention in meetings, take notes, and explain

to the people there you are doing that because it’s an important topic and

you want to have it in writing.

If early morning appointments are tough for you because it takes a few

hours to ‘come round’, explain to people that you are at your mental peak

after 11am and would prefer to schedule things then.

No one will argue with any of these requests because they are things we

can all identify with. They make the person feel respected, while all the time

honoring your ADHD, so that you can perform your best.

1) Think of 5 challenges you face because of your ADHD.

2) Brainstorm solutions.

3) Practice saying the solutions out loud; so when you are in a real life

situation, it will roll off your tongue.


Treating ADHD

ADHD can’t be cured, but it can be successfully managed. You can take

charge of managing your ADHD using this multi-prong process (which

sounds more complex than it actually is).

The 4 prongs are:

- Medical treatment

- Natural treatment

- Life skills

- Psychological well-being

Medical treatment

This could mean ADHD medications; if they are something you have chosen

to take. It also means treating other conditions that you might have: from

thyroid problems, depression to sleeping disorders. Not only does this help

you live a long and healthy life, it also helps your ADHD. Even conditions

that seem completely unrelated, can negatively affect your ADHD.

Natural treatment

Treating your ADHD naturally includes all the steps in my book Untapped

Brilliance, How To Reach Your Full Potential As An Adult With ADHD , such as

taking an Omega 3 supplement, eat a healthy ADHD diet, meditation, daily

exercise and getting a good night’s sleep.



http://www.amazon.com/Untapped-Brilliance-Potential-Attention-Disorder/dp/0979855462


Life skills

You have heard the phrase, ‘Pills don’t teach skills’? No matter how

successfully you are at implementing the first 2 prongs, now it’s time to

develop life skills such as time management and organizing skills. When

learning these skills, take baby steps; you can’t change a lifetime of habits

overnight.

Traditional strategies to these problems don’t always work for ADHDers, so

don’t feel bad if advice from well-meaning Non-ADDers don’t work. Instead,

learn from ADHD experts and notice what works for you and continue to

do that.

Psychological well-being

This is paramount to success. For example, self-esteem is often lower in

people with ADHD than their non-ADHD peers, through years of trying to

conform to a world whose brains work differently to yours. When you are

in a good head space, it’s easier to implement the actions involved in the

other prongs. There is no shame in reaching out for help from a good

psychologist.


Do I have to take ADHD Medication?

One of the most common reasons I hear of why someone doesn’t want to

get their ADHD diagnosed is because they don’t want to take prescription

medications. Good news! You don’t have too! There is no rule that states

when you have ADHD diagnosed, you automatically have to take

medication. You get to choose. You are in control. Taking medication is just

one option in the treatment of ADHD, but it isn’t mandatory!

Many of the big ADHD experts are pro medication, as they say it 'evens the

playing field' and puts you on a level footing with rest of the population. In

my coaching practice, only 50% of my clients take ADD meds. Some don't

enjoy the way they feel when they are on them, some experience side

effects, and some just don't want to put chemicals into their bodies.

Like all things, it’s good to be informed. So here is a brief description of the

different ADHD medications.

It can be divided into 2 categories: Stimulant and non-stimulant.

As stimulant medications are the most effective in treating ADHD (they

work for approximately 75% of adults), they are the most prescribed

medication and the most studied. It might sound counter intuitive for a

person who has ADHD to take a stimulant; however, these medications

work by blocking dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake. This, in turn,

means hyperactivity and impulsiveness are reduced while attention and the

executive functioning of the brain are increased.


The two main types of stimulant medications are:

- Amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine)

- Methylphenidate (such as Ritalin and Concerta)

Both are available in short and long acting formulas and different

strengths.

Some of the side effects are loss of appetite, insomnia, and an increase in

heart rate or blood pressure. People are also concerned about becoming

addicted to their medication. There is a slight risk; particularly if you aren’t

following the prescription recommendations and taking more than

prescribed. The risk is a little higher with methamphetamine than

amphetamines or if you have a history of substance abuse.

The other medication option is non-stimulant medication.

Non-stimulant medication isn’t as controversial as people can’t abuse them.

Strattera selectively blocks the norepinephrine reuptake pump, which in

turn, means there is more dopamine in neurons. What this means for the

ADHD adult is, increased attention and less hyperactivity and

impulsiveness. Strattera needs to be taken for at least 4 weeks before

benefits can be noticed. This is different to the almost immediate effect

that stimulant medications have, but its advantage is that, it is present in

the blood stream 24/7 and doesn’t wear off as the stimulant meds do.

Side effects can include loss of appetite, insomnia, dry mouth and

dizziness. There are also some concerns about potential liver toxicity.

If you are considering taking ADHD medication, work closely with your

doctor. Notice and report to your doctor of how your medication is helping

you and also any side-effects you may experience.


http://untappedbrilliance.com/getting-your-zzzzzs-when-you-have-adhd

What about ADHD and Dopamine?

Did you know that the brain of a person with ADHD doesn’t produce as

much dopamine as someone without ADHD? This shortage affects the

anterior frontal cortex part of the brain and impacts attention and focus

and impulsivity, mood, and motivation… the core symptoms of ADHD.

The way ADHD medications work is by positively affecting dopamine levels.

For example, Ritalin and Adderall work by blocking dopamine and

norepinephrine reuptake, so the dopamine that is produced stays in the

synapse for longer.

When your brain doesn’t have enough dopamine, it craves it. You might

find yourself driven to do activities that aren’t particularly healthy: like

overeat on carbs, smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, drive fast, have

extramarital affairs, over spend or take street drugs.

However, there are things you can do to increase the levels of dopamine

in your brain in a healthy and natural way... and so help your ADHD.

1) Exercise

When you exercise, your brain produces more dopamine. Find an exercise

you love and do it every day.

2) Take Omega 3

Omega 3 increases your levels of dopamine. Take a supplement as well as

including more Omega 3 rich foods in your diet.

3) Meditate

When you meditate, you also increase your dopamine levels.


4) Vitamin C

Include lots of Vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C is very helpful in ensuring

the dopamine synapses are working well.

5) Eat specific foods

Eat foods that raise dopamine levels which contain the amino acid

phenylalanine. Once eaten, the body converts it to tyrosine, and then

tyrosine manufactures dopamine. Include beef, pork, lamb, poultry, fish,

nuts and seeds in your diet, as these are all good sources of phenylalanine.

6) Take Iron and Vitamin B6

Your body needs iron and vitamin B6 to convert food from phenylalanine

to dopamine. So get your iron levels tested by your doctor. If they are low,

ask about taking a supplement. In one study, researchers found that 84%

of the children with ADHD had an iron deficiency, so it’s worth finding out.

7) Sleep

When you sleep, you don’t use much dopamine, which means your

dopamine levels increase overnight ready for the new day.

8) Reduce stress

Stress depletes dopamine.



Which professionals should you work with?

When you have ADHD, it is a good idea to have a team of professionals

behind you. Each professional has their area of expertise and can help you

manage your ADHD.

Here is a brief guide of who to have on your team:

Doctor

If you decide to take ADHD meds, your medical doctor will prescribe and

monitor you. Your family doctor might do this, or if you aren’t comfortable

with it, see a psychiatrist. Once you are on the right meds and dosage, you

will probably visit your doctor every 3 months to get a repeat prescription.

Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist will be on your team if you have other conditions in addition

to ADHD, such as bipolar or if your family doctor isn’t comfortable

prescribing ADHD meds. Some people feel there is a stigma attached to

seeing psychiatrist, but there is no shame to getting the right help from the

right person.

Psychologist

Working with a psychologist or therapist helps you process issues from

your past, help change your beliefs, thought patterns and increase your

self-esteem. They can also help with issues such as anger, anxiety and

addictions.


ADHD Coach

Coaches are great for the practical stuff. They can help with accountability,

so you follow through with tasks, and they work with you to combat

procrastination, develop time management skills, organization skills, self-

esteem, implement habits into your life and much, much more.

If you live in the middle of nowhere, you might be wondering how to find

these ADHD experts. That is where ‘the source of all knowledge’ aka the

internet comes in!

You can find great psychologists on www.psychologytoday.com either in

your area or one that works via Skype.

Coaches, including me, work with clients in-person or using Skype or by

phone, so location doesn’t matter. http://untappedbrilliance.com/adhd-

coaching

Doctors are slightly more challenging…but not impossible. One option

would be to travel to see a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD. When you

have your prescription, your family doctor will usually be happy to continue

write repeat prescriptions.

Good Luck creating your team!


http://untappedbrilliance.com/adhd-coaching

http://untappedbrilliance.com/adhd-coaching

http://www.psychologytoday.com/

Are you Annoyed you have ADHD?

Are you annoyed you have ADHD? Do you wonder, “Why me?” Some people

are frustrated that they have to deal with ADHD annoyances. There are

plenty of people who are happy to know that they have ADHD because it

explains why they are the way they are, but if you are in the frustrated

camp, ADHD feels like a lifelong curse.

Something I have found helpful with clients who feel like this is to reframe

how you view ADHD: from something that is annoying and spoiling your

life, to a challenge that will help you grow and be the catalyst to making

changes you wouldn’t have otherwise.

When Michael J. Fox learned that he had Parkinson’s disease, he said it was

the best thing that happened to him. Parkinson’s societies and charities

were outraged. They felt he was sending the wrong message to the world,

and people wouldn’t understand the debilitating effects of the disease.

Even though he was experiencing the same physical effects as other

sufferers, Michael was speaking about his personal internal experiences.

Prior to being diagnosed, he was living a life that wasn’t in line with who he

was. He was abusing alcohol and there was distance in his marriage.

Parkinson’s gave him the chance to change how he was living his life. He

and his wife became close again; he gave up alcohol, he began appreciating

his life, his career and the opportunity to spread public awareness and to

help find a cure.

We hear similar messages from people who experience an array of

challenges, from health issues to life changes such as an unexpected

divorce. A challenge forces us to grow in ways we never would have

otherwise.


You can do this with ADHD too. For example, you could see ADHD as:

1) The vehicle that propelled you to live a life that is healthier; that got you

to be physically active and knowledgeable about nutrition and got you to

experiment with alternative practices like meditation and hypnosis.

2) The catalyst that made you get to know yourself really well and learn

about what makes you happy, what you love, what irritates you, what

makes your ADHD symptoms worse, what makes them better, what

motivates and drives you, and what goals you want to achieve in your life.

3) The thing that made you learn about finances and how to de-clutter, etc.

In the US, two-thirds of adults are overweight or obese, and the average

person watches 6 hours of TV a day and is $12000 in debt. If you are

treating and managing your ADHD, you are already ahead of the average.

This week, take stock of your life and write down a list of all the things you

have done for the better because you have ADHD.


Congratulations!!!

You are now armed with all the information you need to navigate the early

stages of understanding ADHD. I hope you feel more knowledgeable,

empowered and comforted. Remember to take action on the things you

have read. Whether that is: to book an appointment with your doctor, find

resources in your area, or research a topic that was in Adult ADHD 101 in

greater depth.

If you are wondering what’s next... I have a few recommendations!

1) Keep in touch!

I love connecting with my readers, whether it’s to say hi or ask a question,

shoot me an email at: [email protected]

2) Visit UntappedBrilliance.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter. Every

Friday, I send out tips and tricks to help you stay on top of your ADHD. It

also acts as a reminder to address your ADHD. Many people have said,

without that weekly reminder, managing their ADHD would fall to the

bottom of their to-do list.

3) Pick up a copy of Untapped Brilliance, How to Reach Your Full potential as

an Adult with ADHD. It covers the eleven simple steps that help adults with

ADHD reach their full potential. These highly effective, non-pharmaceutical

ways help to minimize your unwanted ADHD symptoms, so you can excel.

“Untapped Brilliance is brilliant! Full of hope and practical wisdom, this book

is a treasure.” - Edward, M. Hallowell, MD Author of Driven to Distraction





mailto:[email protected]

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ADDers.


http://www.amazon.com/Jacqueline-Sinfield/e/B002GNWR3C

About the Author

Jacqueline Sinfield has been working in the health care field for nearly 20

years. She trained and worked as a nurse in England, before moving to

Montreal, Canada where she set up her own practice as an ADHD coach.

As well as being a registered nurse, Jacqueline is a qualified counsellor, has

a degree in psychology (Hons) from London, England and is a graduate of

Coach University. Her expertise has been featured in the media, including

CJAD radio and the Montreal Gazette.

She has helped hundreds of adults with ADHD and is also the author of

Untapped Brilliance: How to Reach Your Full Potential As an Adult with

Attention Deficit Disorder, How to Sleep Well when you have ADHD and

How to Get Great Grades When You Have ADHD.

Visit the author’s website at www.untappedbrilliance.com



http://www.amazon.com/Great-Grades-When-Have-ebook/dp/B00D9SE8DK/ref=la_B002GNWR3C_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1381510667&sr=1-3




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