ADHD

Question 1

Describe the functional impact of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.

Answer 1

Excessive Inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or a combination of any of them
Careless mistakes, Difficulty sustaining attention, Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly, Poor follow through, Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require sustained mental effort (e.g. homework, notes, taxes, etc), Is often forgetful in daily activities, Fidgeting; Difficulty sitting still, Often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly, “Driven by a motor” (high energy level), Often talks excessively, Often has trouble waiting for turn

Question 2

Describe at least 5 models for understanding why co-morbidity with other psychiatric disorders is high for individuals with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.

Answer 2

Underlying genetic vulnerability
•Developmental changes
•Psychological effects of having ADHD
•Living with others who are irritated by the ADHD
•Self-treating the problem

Question 3

State the likely need for long-term treatment for individuals with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder

Answer 3

65% continues into adulthood, hyperactivity goes down with age but attention deficit stays. Treat adults

Question 4

Describe approaches for identifying and describing attentional dysfunction, especially attentional dysfunction associated with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.

Answer 4

Good diagnostic interview and exam (Gold Standard)
•Rule out other common diagnoses and problems that impact attention
•Depression, anxiety, abuse, poor sleep/nutrition, etc
•Explore and treat comorbid diagnoses if present
•May use available rating scales to support diagnosis and track symptom burden over time
•Vanderbilts, Conner’s, etc-good screens can be supportive but are not sufficient

Question 5

ADHD and depression

Answer 5

ADHD is annoying and irritating to others
•Frequent negative messages
•Development of negative sense of self
•Anger and devaluation = defense
•Frequently develop Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Depression

Question 6

Effective treatment for adhd

Answer 6

Stimulants, usually adderol or ridilin