Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects individuals of all ages and can impact various aspects of life — from academic performance to household responsibilities. As such, recognizing the signs early and finding the right support system can make a significant difference.
Here, we’ll explore expert insights from Elite DNA Board-Certified Psychiatrist Dr. Calvin Tran, who offers advice on recognizing symptoms of ADHD in both adults and children, the importance of early diagnosis, and effective strategies for managing the condition.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges like ADHD, reach out to us or find an Elite DNA location near you and get in touch with our treatment experts.
Recognizing ADHD: How Symptoms Differ in Adults vs. Children
ADHD manifests differently depending on age. For example, while children may struggle with tasks like completing school assignments or paying attention in class, adults often face challenges related to workplace and daily life responsibilities — and the inability to surmount these challenges can affect mental health.
Dr. Tran explains, “For children, the hardest task might be following the directions for an assignment or listening to the teacher. For adults, the issues might revolve more around staying organized with household chores, keeping up with bills, or managing tasks at work.” He adds, “Adults may find themselves constantly late to meetings or making errors in their work, like putting blue tags on items instead of red ones.”
In children, ADHD symptoms can include behavioral health issues such as hyperactivity, lack of impulse control, and difficulty focusing on specific tasks. Meanwhile, adults may experience issues such as disorganization, poor time management, and forgetfulness. Dr. Tran also emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs early, as untreated ADHD can severely impact both academic and career success.
Early Recognition & Diagnosis
Early identification of ADHD is crucial for helping children achieve academic success and develop healthy self-esteem. According to Dr. Tran, “It’s very important to get an evaluation for ADHD as soon as possible, before a student is placed on academic probation.” He explains that struggling academically without understanding why can lead children to believe they are less capable than their peers, which may result in self-doubt and a lack of motivation.
Furthermore, “Early successes are really important to development,” says Dr. Tran. “If you’re having trouble understanding material or paying attention in class, you’re just not going to learn the information.” Without timely intervention, children may not only struggle academically but also face social isolation, as hyperactive symptoms might lead to negative attention from teachers and peers. “If kids start to recognize something different about a classmate with ADHD, they may distance themselves, which can affect the child’s long-term development,” warns Dr. Tran.
By diagnosing ADHD early and providing the right support, children can stay on track academically and socially, leading to more positive long-term outcomes.
Effective Support & Resources for ADHD
Managing ADHD requires a combination of tools and resources. Dr. Tran advises that organization and structure are key to helping individuals stay on task. “Get back to the basics. Are you using an agenda planner? A to-do list?” he suggests. With the prevalence of smartphones, there are now more accessible ways to keep organized. “If you’re not using the calendar in your cell phone consistently, it’s time to start,” says Dr. Tran.
For both children and adults, having a clear structure in their day can improve focus and productivity. Dr. Tran emphasizes that simply having a to-do list isn’t enough — individuals must also follow through. “You can have the agenda, you can have the to-do list, but you have to keep up with it,” he explains.
In addition to practical tools, Dr. Tran highlights the importance of having a support system. Parents, family members, teachers, and employers can play a vital role in ensuring those with ADHD receive the guidance they need. “Provide more opportunities for organization. Make sure they’re using their planner, but don’t do it for them. Teach them how to fish, rather than giving them the fish,” he says.
The Role of Therapy & Medication in Managing ADHD
When it comes to treating ADHD, medication and therapy often work best in combination. Medication management helps reduce the cognitive load, while therapy focuses on building skills to manage the condition.
“Medications, when properly titrated, can significantly reduce the amount of effort it takes to complete tasks,” explains Dr. Tran. “For example, if reading one chapter in a book used to take 100 percent effort, medication can reduce that effort to 70 percent, making tasks more manageable,” he adds.
Therapy complements medication by teaching coping mechanisms and strategies to stay organized and focused. Dr. Tran compares the brain to a muscle, stating, “You can be more organized, you can sustain attention better, but it takes practice.” He advises gradually increasing task duration, starting with five-minute study sessions and working up to 30-minute sessions.
“Five minutes might not sound like a lot, but if you’re spending an hour on a project with low efficiency, that’s a problem,” says Dr. Tran. “The goal is to increase efficiency, so instead of taking days to complete an assignment, you can finish it in one sitting.”
Together, medication and therapy can help individuals with ADHD lead more productive lives and achieve their personal and academic goals.
Supporting a Loved One with ADHD
Supporting someone with ADHD also requires patience, understanding, and consistent encouragement. For both children and adults, having a compassionate support system can make all the difference in managing the condition.
Dr. Tran advises, “The first thing is patience and understanding. Sometimes when you ask someone, ‘Did you take your medication?’ they might feel like they’re being watched.” Instead of nagging, offer gentle reminders and give them space to succeed. “You want to be supportive, not controlling,” he says. “Sometimes the best way to help is by asking open-ended questions like, ‘Does it normally take you this long to complete this task?’”
He also encourages families and friends to offer practical support by minimizing distractions and creating an organized environment. “Provide more opportunities for organization, like setting up a designated work space, but don’t micromanage them,” says Dr. Tran. It’s essential to empower individuals with ADHD to take ownership of their responsibilities while providing a supportive and understanding atmosphere.
Get Support for Child or Adult ADHD from the Experts at Elite DNA
Living with ADHD presents unique challenges, but with early diagnosis, proper treatment, and strong support systems, individuals can thrive. Dr. Tran’s expert advice highlights the importance of recognizing symptoms early, finding the right resources, and offering ongoing support.
Whether it’s using tools like planners and to-do lists, seeking a balance between medication and therapy, or simply practicing patience, there are effective ways to manage ADHD and live a productive life. By taking these steps, individuals with ADHD can not only improve their quality of life but also unlock their full potential.
Need expert help for living with ADHD? Find an Elite DNA location near you to get in touch with our treatment experts.
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