Understanding the scattered (ADHD) brain

Summary

This video discusses ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), a neurodevelopmental condition that affects executive brain functions. It explains the two types of ADHD: inattentive and hyperactive, and highlights the common symptoms. The video also addresses the gender-related myths surrounding ADHD, noting that females are often underdiagnosed. Treatment options include medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines, as well as psychotherapy. Innovative approaches, such as using video games for therapy, show promise. The video emphasizes the importance of education and resources for those affected by ADHD.

Takeaways

• 🧠 ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting executive functioning, and is often misunderstood.
• 📚 ADHD is recognized in the DSM and has two main types: inattentive (ADD) and hyperactive (ADHD).
• 👨‍👩‍👦 Research suggests that genetics play a significant role in ADHD, with 75% of children having a relative with the disorder.
• 👀 Inattentive ADHD symptoms include difficulty focusing, careless mistakes, and trouble completing tasks.
• 🤸‍♂️ Hyperactive ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, inability to stay seated, and excessive talking.
• 🚻 Males are overdiagnosed and females are underdiagnosed with ADHD, despite the condition being non-sex specific.
• 💊 ADHD treatment includes two main medications: methylphenidate and amphetamine, which help by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
• 🧩 Psychotherapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is another important treatment route for ADHD, improving behavior and self-esteem.
• 🎮 A video game called Project Evo showed promising results in improving ADHD symptoms in children by enhancing neurocognitive functions.
• 📞 Several resources are available for individuals with ADHD, including support groups and national helplines.

Q & A

What is ADHD and how is it classified in mental health terms?

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting the brain's executive functions. It is recognized in the DSM manual for mental health conditions.

What are the two types of ADHD, and how do their symptoms differ?

The two types of ADHD are inattentive (also called ADD) and hyperactive. Inattentive ADHD symptoms include difficulty paying attention to details, trouble focusing, and distraction. Hyperactive ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, inability to stay seated, and excessive talking.

How does ADHD impact males and females differently in terms of diagnosis?

Although ADHD symptoms present equally in males and females, males are often over-diagnosed, while females are under-diagnosed. Males are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity, while females are frequently misdiagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders.

What role do genetics play in ADHD?

Genetics are believed to play a significant role in ADHD, with statistics indicating that 75% of children with ADHD have a relative who also has the disorder.

How do ADHD medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine work in the brain?

These medications work by inhibiting the reuptake of hormones like dopamine in the synaptic cleft, allowing them to stay longer and helping improve concentration and attention in individuals with ADHD.

What are the two main routes of treatment for ADHD?

The two main treatment routes for ADHD are medication (such as methylphenidate and amphetamine) and psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavioral therapy.

What are the goals of psychotherapy for individuals with ADHD?

Psychotherapy for ADHD focuses on improving behavior, self-control, and self-esteem, with particular emphasis on organization, planning, reducing distractibility, and cognitive restructuring.

How might video games help in treating ADHD symptoms in children?

Research on video games, like the Project Evo game developed at Duke University, has shown promise in helping children with ADHD. The game is designed to improve neurocognitive functions, with studies showing significant improvements in attention and working memory for children with ADHD.

Why is there a common misconception that ADHD is primarily a male disorder?

This misconception stems from the belief that hyperactivity, often associated with males, is a key trait of ADHD. As a result, males are over-diagnosed, and females, who may present less obvious symptoms, are under-diagnosed or misdiagnosed with other conditions.

What resources are available for individuals with ADHD?

Several resources, such as McMaster University’s Student Accessibility Services, ADHD focus groups, and organizations like Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Attitude, Totally ADD, and the National Resource Center on ADHD, provide support and information.

Outlines

00:00

🧠 Understanding ADHD and Its Types

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts executive functioning. The condition is officially recognized in the DSM manual and can be influenced by genetics, with about 75% of children with ADHD having a relative with the disorder. There are two types of ADHD: inattentive (formerly known as Attention Deficit Disorder) and hyperactive/impulsive. Inattentive ADHD symptoms include lack of attention to detail, difficulty focusing, and trouble completing tasks. Hyperactive ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, excessive talking, and difficulty staying seated. ADHD affects both males and females, but females are often underdiagnosed, while males are overdiagnosed.

05:02

🧪 The Science Behind ADHD Diagnoses and Treatments

ADHD diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by clinicians such as pediatricians, psychologists, or psychiatrists. Two main treatments exist: medication and psychotherapy. Methylphenidate and amphetamine are commonly prescribed, targeting the prefrontal cortex to improve concentration by keeping hormones like dopamine in the synaptic cleft for longer periods. Both medications are effective, though individualized prescriptions are necessary. Psychotherapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavioral therapy, helps with organization, planning, and self-esteem. Recent research, including video games designed to enhance neurocognitive functions, shows promise in helping children with ADHD.

📚 ADHD Resources and Support Systems

There are numerous resources available for individuals experiencing ADHD symptoms. Institutions like McMaster University offer services such as Student Accessibility Services (SAS) and ADHD focus groups. Other resources include organizations like CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), ADDitude, How to ADHD, and the National Resource Center on ADHD, which operates a call center to provide support. Raising awareness and educating oneself on ADHD is essential for reducing stigma and understanding the condition more fully.

Keywords

💡ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting executive functioning, leading to difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. The video discusses how ADHD can impact daily life and highlights two types of ADHD: inattentive and hyperactive. ADHD's presence in the DSM manual underscores its recognition as a significant mental health condition.

💡Inattentive Type (ADD)

This is one form of ADHD, often referred to as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Individuals with this type exhibit symptoms such as trouble focusing, difficulty following instructions, and making careless mistakes. The video explains how inattentive ADHD can lead to poor concentration, particularly in tasks requiring sustained mental effort.

💡Hyperactive Type

Hyperactive ADHD is characterized by excessive movement, restlessness, and impulsivity. People with this form may struggle to stay seated, fidget constantly, or talk excessively. The video contrasts this with inattentive ADHD and explains how it presents itself in males and females.

💡Executive Functioning

Executive functioning refers to mental processes involved in planning, focus, memory, and managing tasks. ADHD impacts these cognitive abilities, making it difficult for individuals to manage time, organize tasks, or maintain focus. The video emphasizes that this disruption in executive functioning is a hallmark of the disorder.

💡Dopamine

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate attention and concentration. In individuals with ADHD, dopamine does not stay in the synaptic cleft long enough to aid in focus, contributing to symptoms of inattention. The video explains how medications like methylphenidate work to extend dopamine's effects in the brain to improve attention.

💡Methylphenidate

Methylphenidate is one of the medications used to treat ADHD by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. It works by preventing dopamine reuptake, helping individuals with ADHD to concentrate better. The video discusses how it and amphetamine target the prefrontal cortex to alleviate symptoms.

💡Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a form of psychotherapy used to treat ADHD, focusing on improving self-control, behavior, and self-esteem. The video highlights how therapy, alongside medication, is an important route for managing ADHD by addressing distractibility, organization, and thought patterns.

💡Gender Disparity in ADHD Diagnosis

The video discusses the discrepancy in ADHD diagnoses, with males being over-diagnosed and females under-diagnosed. Females are often misdiagnosed with anxiety or mood disorders due to stereotypes around hyperactivity being more associated with males. This gender bias is especially evident in children, where boys are diagnosed at a 2:1 ratio compared to girls.

💡Project Evo

Project Evo is a video game designed to address neurocognitive impairments in children with ADHD. The video explains that this game was developed as an innovative treatment approach, engaging children while targeting areas like attention and working memory. Research shows it has potential as an effective tool for managing ADHD symptoms.

💡Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex is the brain region responsible for executive functions like attention, decision-making, and self-control. In ADHD, this area does not function optimally, leading to difficulties in concentration and task management. The video explains how ADHD medications target this brain region to improve cognitive functioning.

Highlights

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects executive functioning in the brain.

Research suggests that genetics may contribute to ADHD, with 75% of children with ADHD having a relative with the disorder.

There are two types of ADHD: inattentive (ADD) and hyperactive (ADHD), each with distinct symptoms.

Inattentive ADHD symptoms include trouble focusing, distraction while listening, and making careless mistakes.

Hyperactive ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, excessive talking, and difficulty staying seated.

ADHD is not a sex-specific disorder, but males are overdiagnosed while females are underdiagnosed.

Clinic studies by the CDC show a male-to-female ratio of 2:1 in ADHD diagnoses for children aged 5 to 17.

Females are often misdiagnosed with anxiety or mood disorders instead of ADHD.

ADHD diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by clinicians like pediatricians or psychologists.

Two main medications for ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamine, which target the brain's prefrontal cortex.

These medications work by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine to help improve attention and focus.

Both medications are equally effective and prescribed on an individual basis, according to research by Hodgkin and colleagues.

Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is another effective treatment option for ADHD.

Recent research shows that video games, like Project Evo, could help improve attention and working memory in children with ADHD.

Several resources for ADHD include McMaster University's student accessibility services, CHADD, and the National Resource Center on ADHD.

Transcripts

mental health disorders can impact an

individual's daily life today we will be

talking about the ADHD brain attention

deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD

is a commonly misunderstood mental

health condition and one that we will be

discussing today ADHD is recognized in

the DSM manual for mental health

conditions it is characterized as a

neurodevelopmental disorder that affects

the executive functioning of the brain

research suggests that genetics could

play a role in contributing to ADHD with

statistics saying that 75% of children

with ADHD have a relative with the

disorder there are two types of ADHD

inattentive also called attention

deficit disorder and hyperactive or ADHD

depending on the type the symptoms can

differ individuals who have the

inattentive type of ADHD can experience

symptoms such as not paying close

attention to details or making careless

mistakes trouble focusing on tasks or

conversations distraction while

listening not following instructions and

not completing tasks individuals who

have the hyperactive or impulsive type

of ADHD can experience symptoms such as

fidgeting tapping hands or feet not

being able to stay seated and talking

too much these symptoms present

themselves equally in males and females

and ADHD is not a sex specific disorder

however females are under diagnosed and

males are over diagnosed with ADHD in

fact clinic based studies by the CDC

have recorded a male-to-female ratio of

about 2 to 1 in ADHD diagnoses

specifically in children that are aged 5

to 17 years old you have perhaps heard

that ADHD is a male disorder this is

definitely a myth there is a notion that

hyperactivity is a male characteristic

and as a result males are often over

diagnosed females are misdiagnosed with

emotionally based psychiatric illnesses

such as anxiety and mood disorders as of

right now diagnoses of 80

she occurs through a comprehensive

evaluation by a clinician who could be a

pediatrician psychologist or a

psychiatrist there are two routes of

treatment for ADHD the first route is

medication the two medications used to

treat ADHD are methylphenidate and unfed

Amin both medications target the

prefrontal cortex of the brain which is

responsible for executive functions

hormones like dopamine and

norepinephrine travel across the neuron

through the synaptic cleft the

longed-for hormone stays in the synaptic

cleft the longer its affects our

dopamine helps with concentration under

normal conditions

dopamine's days in the synaptic cleft

for long enough to allow a person to

concentrate

however in individuals with ADHD

hormones like dopamine don't stay in the

synaptic cleft for a long period of time

making it hard for them to concentrate

methylphenidate and amphetamine work by

inhibiting the reuptake of these

hormones from the synaptic cleft by

blocking their receptors so that they

can stay there for longer thereby

helping with ADHD symptoms specifically

attention and thinking recent research

like the one conducted by Hodgkin and

colleagues in 2012 concluded that both

medications are equally as effective as

each other and they are prescribed on an

individual basis in addition to

medication psychotherapy is considered

to be another route for treatment

cognitive behavioral therapy CBT and

behavioral therapy are two areas of

psychotherapy that can help improve

behavior self control and self esteem

and ADHD patients psychotherapy sessions

focus on three core areas including

organization and planning

distractibility and cognitive

restructuring recent research is looking

at how video games could help with ADHD

symptoms in children a proof-of-concept

study was conducted by Davis and

colleagues at the Duke University School

of Medicine a video game called Project

Evo was developed with high quality

graphics and reward loops designed to be

engaging for children and to address the

underlying areas of neuro cognitive

functioning that are impacted in ADHD

the results showed that 84% of treatment

sessions were completed and that the

intervention was appealing and well

accepted

significant improvements were found in

the computerised attention task for the

ADHD group and highly ADHD impaired

severity subgroup improvements were also

found in spatial working memory for the

ADHD group and the highly impaired ADHD

high severity subgroup while there was

no change for the non ADHD group the

findings from this study hold promise

that this treatment could help children

with ADHD and it is currently under

review by the FDA several resources also

exists to help those experiencing

symptoms of ADHD McMaster University has

resources like the student accessibility

services for SAS and ADHD focus groups

that individuals can participate in

other general resources are children and

adults with 8 attention deficit

hyperactivity disorder attitude totally

a DD how to ADHD and the National

Resource Center on ADHD which also

operates a call center that has trained

staff to answer questions about ADHD

everyone should educate themselves about

mental health conditions like ADHD and

avoid believe in common myths we hope

this video clarified what ADHD really is

and the struggles that somebody has

going through it thank you for watching