Our brain relies on dopamine for optimal mental functioning.
These differences in dopamine processing cause ADHD traits to show up.
A big part of understanding this neurotype is becoming well-versed in what ADHD is and its impact on thebrain.
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Read on to learn more about the relationship between dopamine and ADHD.
What Is ADHD?
In fact, ADHD traits can be more pronounced and cause more distress in adulthood when they go undiagnosed.
Traits of ADHDinclude:
What Is Dopamine?
Dopamineis aneurotransmitternaturally created in our bodies that regulates learning and motivation.
This neurotransmitter is necessary for a variety of reasons.
Motivationis intrinsically linked to learning, especially in our adult years.
It is challenging to continue learning if we lack motivation.
However, we must continue learning throughout our life thanks to our constantly evolving world.
Dopamine can also help regulate our emotional responses and increase our feelings of reward and satisfaction.
How Is ADHD Connected to Dopamine?
ADHD is a neurotype with a solid connection todopamineproduction.
Let’s think about the traits present in ADHD.
Researchers reason why some people have ADHD is that they have an increased amount of dopamine transporters.
Having a higher density of dopamine transporters in the brain results inlowered dopamine levels in the brain.
A decreased amount of dopamine in the brain can result in a diagnosis of ADHD.
During an assessment, mental health professionals will focus on the presenting traits rather than the neurology of ADHD.
The punch in of support needed will vary depending on the age of the person experiencing ADHD.
However, major recommendations for all aremedication,psychotherapy, and further education about this neurotype.
Stimulants and Non-Stimulants
A doctor will prescribe either astimulantor anon-stimulant.
A stimulant can quickly make ADHD traits feel more manageable.
The recommended form of psychotherapy iscognitive-behavioral therapy.
Individual psychotherapy isnt very effective in managing traits of ADHD when it comes to child and teen support.
Instead, experts recommend parental involvement and accommodations made in the classroom.
Our culture tends to prioritize productivity, structure, and systems that were designed for those who are neurotypical.
Yet, it is important to remember that there are many strengths within the ADHD brain.
Coping With ADHD
ADHD can feel challenging, isolating, and frustrating.
Knowledge is power, and the more you understand ADHD, the better.
Consider joining asupport groupbuilding community with others can serve as a helpful reminder that youre not alone.
Finally, making yourloved onesaware of your needs is a great way to bolster support.
Allow those around you to lift you up, and dont lose hope.
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