National Center for Gender Issues in AD/HD

 

You may not think that there is a connection between skin health and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the two actually have a lot in common. Both can be linked to poor diet, lack of sleep, and stress. Making lifestyle modifications to improve your child’s skin health, as well as working with a skin naturopath, can be a great way to help manage their condition. Taking care of their skin can help them feel better about themselves and may also help to reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD.

 

The link between skin health and ADHD

There is a strong connection between skin health and ADHD. Children with ADHD are more likely to suffer from skin problems, such as eczema and psoriasis. In fact, one study found that nearly 40 percent of children with ADHD also had eczema.

Three of the main lifestyle triggers connected to …

 

ADHD presents unique challenges for both boys and girls, but the ways these symptoms are managed can vary significantly between genders. For girls and women, ADHD is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to delays in treatment and support. Societal expectations, cultural norms, and internalized beliefs about gender can further complicate their ADHD experience. To provide effective care, it’s important to recognise these differences and adopt gender-sensitive management strategies that address the distinct needs of both boys and girls.

 

ADHD Presentation Differences Between Genders

One of the most significant gender differences in ADHD is how the disorder presents itself. For boys, ADHD symptoms are often more externalized and easier to spot. They tend to exhibit higher levels of hyperactivity and impulsiveness, making it more likely that their behaviours will disrupt classrooms or social situations, leading to earlier diagnosis. Teachers, parents, and healthcare providers are often more alert to these …

For girls and women with ADHD, navigating daily life can present unique challenges, often compounded by societal expectations and norms. Many may experience heightened emotional sensitivity, anxiety, and difficulties with self-regulation, making it essential to explore strategies that promote well-being and resilience. One effective approach gaining recognition is mindfulness. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can offer powerful tools for enhancing focus and emotional regulation, helping individuals with ADHD cultivate a greater sense of control and calm amidst the chaos.

In this blog, we will delve into the role of mindfulness practices in managing ADHD symptoms, highlighting how these techniques can specifically benefit girls and women, fostering a supportive environment for their growth and development.

 

 

Mindfulness

 

Mindfulness is the practice of paying deliberate attention to the present moment without judgment. It encourages individuals to become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations, creating …

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects millions worldwide, manifesting through symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in how lifestyle changes, particularly nutrition and diet, can play a role in managing these symptoms. This blog delves into the impact of nutrition on ADHD, exploring the potential benefits of dietary modifications and the importance of understanding gender differences in dietary needs and responses.

 

The Connection Between Nutrition and ADHD

Nutrition profoundly affects brain health, influencing everything from cognitive function to emotional regulation. For individuals with ADHD, certain dietary patterns may exacerbate or alleviate symptoms. Research suggests that diets high in refined sugars and processed foods can worsen ADHD symptoms, while those rich in specific nutrients may offer significant benefits. This section will explore the current understanding of how nutrition impacts ADHD and the scientific basis behind these effects.

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A notable gap emerges in the recognition and treatment of ADHD across gender lines, with women and girls often standing in the shadows. This discussion pivots towards understanding why ADHD in females remains under the radar, overshadowed by stereotypes and misconceptions. By delving into the unique challenges they encounter, we aim to shed light on the nuances of their experiences. Our journey is not just about uncovering these disparities; it’s about advocating for a world where support and treatment are accessible and tailored to all, regardless of gender.

 

Understanding ADHD in the Context of Gender

In the intricate web of ADHD diagnosis and treatment, gender plays a pivotal role that often goes unnoticed. The manifestation of ADHD symptoms tends to diverge significantly between males and females, influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. For females, symptoms might lean more towards inattentiveness, internalization, and emotional dysregulation, contrasting the more overt …

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder affecting children and adults globally. It is characterized by inattention and excessive movement, which oftentimes leads to a low ability to do well in school. ADHD is becoming a well-known disorder as it is diagnosed more frequently than it was in the past.

The exact cause of ADHD has never been found, although medical doctors and researchers have compiled a list of potential causes. There is speculation that the disorder is connected to altered brain activity, heredity, maternal smoking or drug use, as well as childhood exposure to toxins.

After diagnosing a person with ADHD, some doctors will want to prescribe a medication that will counteract the disorder. Most often prescribed are stimulants, such as methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine-amphetamine. Also prescribed are non-stimulant medications, anti-depressants, and drugs prescribed primarily for high blood pressure. All of the preceding drugs have been proven …

It’s well known that people feel restored after spending time outdoors in nature. A walk in the park helps reduce stress, elevates mood, and calms the mind. This seems to be especially true of children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Research has shown significant reductions in ADHD symptoms when children with ADHD spend time outdoors. Several follow-up studies have backed up the results and given insight into why being outside helps the brain focus.

These findings can help parents whose children do not respond to medication, as the effects seem to be true even among children who do not respond to other treatments. Best of all, green time is free, abundant, has few risks, and does not cause side effects as medications do.

A University of Illinois study had parents of 322 boys with ADHD and 84 girls with ADHD answer survey questions about their children’s after school and …

One treatment that is gaining popularity in the management of ADD/ADHD patients is neurofeedback.

What is Neurofeedback?

At its simplest neurofeedback is simply brainwave biofeedback. With neurofeedback training, a patient can learn to improve and strengthen brainwave patterns to function more effectively with better focus, organization, follow-through, and basic learning functions. What’s more, the treatment does not have any side effects as do some of the drugs used to treat ADD/ADHD. Neurofeedback works similarly for individuals suffering from autism as well as a number of other disorders.

“Neurofeedback brings down the arousal levels (in the brain) so the patient can get more out of their treatment modalities,” said Dr. Reid Schwartz, Director of Applied Psychophysiology at Neuroheath Associates in Lombard, IL in an interview. “The frequent complaint is that they (ADD/ADHD patients) are non-compliant.”

What Factors Affect Neurofeedback?

First off, it is not a panacea and is generally used in …

Natural remedies for ADHD can help calm an overly active child. Children who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, can have a hard time staying focused and often lack self-control. As a result, children who have ADHD may perform poorly in school, have a hard time getting along with peers, and have difficulties at home.

There are several treatment options available for children who have ADHD. Some are more effective than others. It all depends on the child. Some parents are reluctant to put their children on medication, because of the potential for side effects. Although many children do benefit from taking medication, natural remedies for ADHD can also help children stay calm and focused.

Diet as a Natural ADHD Remedy

Children who have ADHD should have a lot of protein in their diet. Research indicates that protein is one of the most effective ADHD natural treatments. A study …

There is currently some debate in the UK over Disability Discrimination Act legislation that allows children with ADHD to be given special passes that allow them to “queue-jump” at theme parks. If a child can prove that he has ADHD then he can be allowed to move to the front of the queue on any attraction without having to wait. This has caused some controversy over whether this is the right way to treat kids with this condition. So, is it in their best interests?

The Advantages of Not Making People With ADHD Queue

Theme park queues are notoriously long. It isn’t unusual for it to take hours to work through the line to get to the start of an attraction. ADHD sufferers do not generally find this easy. They may, for example, have problems with:

• Concentrating long enough to stand in line
• Understanding that they need to queue and

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