Attention deficit disorder with and without hyperactivity (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder often diagnosed during childhood. It can however persist during an individual’s teenage years and even affect them throughout their adult years. Thankfully, someone suffering from ADHD can rely on a variety of approaches and methods to reduce the disorder’s negative effects on their life.
Who is affected by ADHD and what are the symptoms?
In Quebec, 3 to 5% of children are affected by ADHD and boys are three times more likely to be diagnosed, according to the Douglas university institute for mental health. Approximately 40 to 70% of children with ADHD continue to be affected by the disorder during their teenage years and about half of them will be affected as an adult.
Whether in an adult or a child, ADHD can present various symptoms which are grouped into three main categories. They are: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. An individual with ADD (without hyperactivity) will generally have a harder time concentrating or seeing a task through to its end. When hyperactivity (ADHD) comes into play, this disorder can also include difficulties carrying out specific tasks or meeting objectives.
Although ADHD is often noticed and diagnosed in an academic or professional environment, this issue can affect every aspect of a person’s life. A child with ADHD may have low self-esteem when he notices he’s different because he doesn’t progress as “normally” as other kids do. For their part, adults with ADHD are more likely to have problems in relationships with other people, which can negatively impact their love life or career.
People affected by ADHD must often take medication to reduce their symptoms but more and more patients are turning towards new approaches.
ADHD and occupational therapy
An occupational therapist is a health professional with the necessary training to support and advise someone on how to carry out daily tasks in order to be more autonomous. They will assess an individual’s physical and mental limits to ascertain how the disorder affects their daily life. The occupational therapist will then provide them with the necessary tools to minimize these negative impacts.
By taking into account the individual’s environmental factors, an occupational therapist can provide ways to improve their concentration at school or work. In fact, this professional can help their client organize their environment and workspace in order to limit distractions in their surroundings. They will also help the client manage their time in a more efficient way in order to meet specific goals. This in turn can help them fulfill their professional and personal ambitions. The goal: to be able to be as productive as possible!
ADHD & massage therapy
Studies have shown the benefits of massage therapy for those affected by ADHD. In fact, regular massages provided by a professional can help reduce hyperactivity, improve the ability to focus, improve mood, and reduce anxiety often affecting individuals with ADHD. Regular massages will also greatly improve a person’s quality of sleep.
ADHD & exercise
Recent studies have also have shown that regular exercise can have a beneficial effect on concentration and hyperactivity for those with ADHD. People who regularly exercise also see their stress and anxiety levels reduced.
Clinique GO™ offers health services that greatly improve the quality of life of people with ADHD, no matter their age. Our professionals will go directly to the patient’s house, school or daycare, or even professional workplace. Contact us now if you or your child are affected by ADHD. We can provide you with professional advice tailored to your personal goals!
Approuvé par Francis Desjardins
