Is ADHD a Form of Neurodivergence?

A diagnosis of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) used to feel like something people would automatically judge, in large part due to not understanding the nature of the disorder. Is ADHD a form of neurodivergence and, if so, what does that mean? Hillcrest explores this subject to help people gain a better understanding of how there should be no taboo for people who have ADHD. We offer residential and outpatient programs for adolescents who need help managing their mental health and gaining better control of their ADHD symptoms.

Learn more about our teen treatment programs or verify your insurance today.

What is ADHD?

To answer the question, “Is ADHD a form of neurodivergence?”, we start by understanding what ADHD is and who it impacts. ADHD typically begins in childhood, but a diagnosis may not be made until adulthood. ADHD is a mental health disorder that is not curable, but can be managed with the right treatment plan. It causes people to become hyperactive and have difficulty focusing on things, which can result in poor grades in school for adolescents. The longer a person goes without treatment for ADHD, the more challenging their life becomes, making it important that they look for help as soon as possible.

Symptoms of ADHD

When an adolescent experiences ADHD, they will exhibit symptoms that will likely be noticeable to their parents and others around them. Common symptoms include:

• Easily distracted
• Talking excessively
• Trouble staying focused on a conversation or a task
•  Interrupting others because of a lack of patience
• Fidgeting
• High bursts of energy
• Unorganized
• Moves from one place to another in a room or home several times
• Abusing alcohol or drugs to deal with ADHD symptoms
• Poor grades in school

What is Neurodiversity?

The word neurodiversity was first used by Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist, in the late 1990s. The phrase is comparable to the natural differences that occur among people, such as age, gender, race, class, and more. It has to do with neurodevelopmental conditions that people develop. Approximately 15% of the world’s population is classified as neurodiverse. 

Neurodevelopmental conditions are characterized by specific symptoms and behaviors that typically happen in utero or during early childhood. They can be caused by genetics, physical trauma, trauma during birth, immune disorders, and infectious diseases. Neurodiversity includes room for all ranges of diverse human cognition, rather than making assumptions that only one specific way is “right” and judging all others for not being that way. People with neurodivergent conditions face challenges in life, but should never be counted as less intelligent or less capable than others. 

Is ADHD a Form of Neurodivergence?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition and part of the spectrum of neurodivergence. Is ADHD a form of neurodivergence? Yes, and many treatment professionals now try to take the stigma out of the disorder. Different doesn’t automatically mean not as good; it just means the person is diverse and can seek treatment to help control their symptoms. 

People with ADHD often have one or more other mental health disorders or conditions that accompany it. About one in two people with ADHD has dyslexia or dyspraxia. Nine out of ten people who have Tourette’s also have ADHD. Additionally, about two-thirds of those with ADHD have traits from the autism spectrum. 

Does Medication Help Treat ADHD?

Prescription medications prove useful in the treatment of ADHD, and can include stimulants and non-stimulants. An initial assessment will help determine which medications may provide the best results. The prescribing clinician will monitor the person’s usage and any side effects. If necessary, changes to the type of medication or dosage amounts can be made.

Does ADHD Respond Well to Therapy?

Attending therapy is one of the primary ways people learn to manage their ADHD symptoms and make positive changes. Common therapies used as part of a treatment program for ADHD include:

• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Behavioral Therapy
• Psychodynamic Therapy
• Interpersonal Therapy
• Family Therapy
• Group Therapy
• Personal Development

Getting a Diagnosis for ADHD

While it can be tempting to self-diagnose, it takes a skilled and licensed mental health expert to provide a full assessment that allows them to determine if a person has ADHD. This can be accomplished by visiting a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. Once a diagnosis is made, a plan for treatment that meets the child’s core issues can be devised. 

Begin Treatment for ADHD at Hillcrest

Does your child struggle with the symptoms of ADHD and needs concentrated and complex help to manage how they feel and improve their quality of life? Hillcrest understands that adolescents need their own treatment plans that meet their unique needs, and we offer that through the use of several types of therapy modalities. Our compassionate staff keeps parents in the loop so they understand their child’s progress. We also offer tutoring programs tailored to the teenager’s needs so they don’t fall behind in their academics.

Contact us today to find out how we can help your child rise above the challenges of ADHD and plan for a more exciting future. We can also provide a free insurance verification upon request.