If a family member starts numerous projects that he or she never finishes, seems to move from one job to the next and experiences frequent bouts of absentmindedness, he or she could have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is frequently misunderstood, which is why when friends and family members try to support their loved one who has ADHD, their approach may be ineffective. However, seeking professional treatment for ADHD South Jersey can help people with this disorder, and their family members understand the condition.

What is ADHD and ADHD Treatment?

Many people think that someone with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder just has difficulty focusing or has some type of academic problem, when in fact ADHD is a serious executive functioning disorder and psychological impairment.

Executive functioning involves the cognitive processes an individual uses to move toward a goal. These cognitive processes include everything from determining the priority of tasks to making decisions to organizing and managing time.

6 Tips to Help Someone with ADHD

1. Learn the signs of ADHD.

Without understanding the way the brain of someone with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder works, any efforts that are made to help are usually ineffective and sometimes harmful.

The signs of ADHD include:

• Impulsivity
• Hyperactivity
• Inattentiveness
• A lack of executive functioning skills

The seven executive functions that ADHD impacts include:

1. Self-monitoring
2. Memory
3. Inhibition
4. Self-awareness
5. Emotional control
6. Self-motivation
7. Planning (time management)

When these executive functions are not working properly, an individual with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder may seem unprepared, thoughtless, extremely emotional and disorganized. While executive dysfunctions may appear to be intentional insults, they are not. Instead, these are largely biological problems originating in the individual’s brain. Realizing that a loved one’s brain chemistry causes the actions that appear to be selfish or disrespectful can help mend strained relationships.

2. Have a conversation about attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Even a young child who has ADHD needs to know that his or her brain just works a little differently. Once a child understands his or her disability, he or she is more likely to accept the need for medication as well as the time required to learn new skills. Furthermore, it helps the child understand why he or she is having difficulty sitting still and concentrating. Knowing the reason for these actions keeps children with ADHD from feeling as if they are unable to learn. Thus, improving their self-esteem, which is always a plus.

3. Create routines and stick to them.

Many times a child who has ADHD does better at school than he or she does at home. This is usually because the school day is structured, which helps the child remain focused. Just like people who have anxiety; those with ADHD are typically driven by their emotions, making decisions based on the way they feel. Having structure causes an individual with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder to act regardless of the way he or she feels. By creating structure through routine, the same benefits can be achieved at home.

4. Encourage physical activity.

When a child is young, re-centering is simple; all he or she has to do is run around. So, how can this help an individual with ADHD? Participating in physical activities before doing homework can help a child re-center, which can improve his or her ability to concentrate. Since ADHD also affects teens and adults, they, too, can re-center themselves with activity (e.g., walk the dog, pull weeds, exercise).

5. Create a distraction-free zone.

Create a space in the home that is free of distractions. Since the kitchen tends to be one of the busiest rooms in the home, this is probably the worst place for someone with ADHD to pay the bills or do homework. Instead, these individuals need an area free of distractions to complete these tasks. That said, many people with ADHD will need some type of stimulation to remain focused, for these individuals just playing music in the background is enough to help them remain focused. It will take some trial and error to discover what works for a loved one with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

6. Research to find the best ADHD treatments.

Just like a chronic physical condition (e.g., hypertension, diabetes) ADHD is a medical condition that requires treatment. An individual with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder who speaks with a medical professional to learn more about their condition may recognize the positive aspects of ADHD treatment.

An ADHD treatment plan consists of two parts, behavioral therapy, which targets the executive function deficits, and medication.

Other therapies utilized during treatment for ADHD include:

• Mindfulness training
• ADHD coaching
• Treating a comorbid condition
• Regular exercise

Needless to say, finding the right ADHD treatment combination can take some time.

ADHD Help Near South Jersey

If your loved one has or may have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, consider seeking help from a medical professional at Harmony Bay Wellness. Our experienced, compassionate medical professionals can find the ADHD South Jersey treatment combination that your loved one needs to reduce his or her symptoms. To schedule an appointment call 855-765-6399.