Why Treat ADHD?
Why Treat ADHD? Understanding the Benefits of Addressing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Many individuals who meet the criteria for ADHD question whether treatment is necessary, particularly if they have managed their symptoms for years. However, a growing body of research underscores the importance of treating ADHD, highlighting the profound impact it has on various aspects of life.
ADHD Persists Into Adulthood
Long-term studies reveal that most children diagnosed with ADHD do not outgrow it. Instead, they transition into adulthood with the condition. This can lead to significant challenges, including underachievement in education, less professional success, and unstable relationships. ADHD's impact spans virtually every area of life because attention is foundational to all that we do—whether interacting with friends and family, working, or engaging in hobbies.
The Hidden Cost of Compensatory Strategies
Adults with ADHD often develop compensatory strategies to mitigate their challenges. While these strategies can help, they come at a cost. The energy expended in managing ADHD symptoms is finite. Just as you can’t burn the same gallon of gas twice, once that energy is used, it’s unavailable for other pursuits. Treating ADHD can help individuals reclaim this energy, allowing them to channel it into positive and productive activities.
Why ADHD Often Goes Undiagnosed
Many people are diagnosed with ADHD only in adulthood. There are several reasons for this delay:
1. Teacher Identification Bias: Teachers are more likely to flag children with disruptive or aggressive behaviors, overlooking those who struggle quietly.
2. High Intelligence Masking Symptoms: Bright students may compensate for their inattention by relying on their intelligence, often performing adequately in junior high and high school. However, they may struggle in college when competing with equally intelligent peers who do not have ADHD.
3. Flawed Age Criteria in Diagnostic Guidelines: Formal ADHD diagnostic criteria include arbitrary age cutoffs for symptom onset. These cutoffs were designed to ensure research validity but lack empirical support. Bright, non-disruptive children often remain undiagnosed until adulthood, when accumulating responsibilities make their ADHD impairing.
The Link Between ADHD and Depression
There is a significant overlap between the biology of ADHD and depression. Both involve neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which play roles in attention, motivation, and enjoyment. In ADHD, norepinephrine helps focus attention on desired tasks, while dopamine suppresses distractions. In depression, these chemicals regulate motivation and the ability to find pleasure in activities.
When ADHD coexists with depression, untreated ADHD can limit the effectiveness of depression treatments. Moreover, some common antidepressants that work through serotonin can inadvertently suppress norepinephrine and dopamine, worsening symptoms in individuals with both conditions. For optimal outcomes, ADHD must be identified and treated alongside depression, with careful selection of medications.
Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment
At Live Well Psychiatry, every patient undergoes a structured diagnostic interview, which includes an evaluation for ADHD. This holistic approach ensures that all conditions and their interactions are addressed, enabling patients to achieve true wellness.
Treating ADHD isn’t just about managing attention deficits; it’s about unlocking potential, improving relationships, and enhancing overall quality of life. By addressing ADHD and its associated conditions, individuals can reclaim energy, focus, and the ability to thrive in all areas of life.
Take the first step toward a brighter future. If you or a loved one may be struggling with ADHD, Live Well Psychiatry is here to help. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Don’t let untreated ADHD hold you back—contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward improved focus, energy, and well-being.
