ADHD: Busting Myths & Revealing Realities – Insights from a Psychiatrist Dr Babor Aganren, October 14, 2023 ADHD: Busting Myths & Revealing Realities – Insights from a Psychiatrist By Dr. Babor Aganren, MD, MRCPsych Welcome, dear readers! Today, I am here to shed light on ADHD, addressing common misconceptions with stories that bring the realities of this condition to life. We’ll also explore how ADHD uniquely affects women. Let’s dive in! Myth 1: ADHD Is Solely a Childhood Condition Reality: ADHD spans across the lifespan, impacting children, adolescents, and adults. It’s not something that kids simply outgrow, as many adults grapple with undiagnosed ADHD, affecting their daily lives. Lisa’s Misconception: Meet Lisa, a thriving businesswoman. She mistakenly believed that ADHD only affected children until she sought help for chronic disorganization, impulsivity, and inattention. With proper diagnosis and treatment, Lisa is now excelling both personally and professionally. Myth 2: All ADHD Symptoms Are Obvious Reality: ADHD isn’t always marked by loud hyperactivity. The inattentive subtype often goes unnoticed, especially in women, as symptoms can be subtle and attributed to other issues. Sarah’s Discovery: Sarah, a mother of two, struggled with chronic forgetfulness and focus issues. She was astounded to discover that she had ADHD. Thanks to treatment and support, Sarah now effectively manages her symptoms. Myth 3: ADHD Medications Are Addictive Reality: ADHD medications, when properly prescribed and taken, are generally safe and non-addictive. They function differently in individuals with ADHD compared to those without the condition. John’s Hesitation: Consider John, who initially hesitated to take medication for his ADHD. After a thorough consultation with a healthcare provider, he decided to give it a try. The medication significantly improved his focus and helped him regain control of his life. Myth 4: ADHD Is a Lack of Discipline or Laziness Reality: ADHD is a neurobiological condition, not a matter of discipline. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with executive functions like planning and organization, which can be misconstrued as laziness. Emily’s Shock: Emily, a young student, faced judgment from teachers who assumed she wasn’t putting in enough effort. Her diagnosis came as a shock, but with proper management and accommodations, she achieved academic success. Myth 5: Women Don’t Get ADHD Reality: ADHD in women often goes undiagnosed due to unique symptom expressions. Women may internalize their struggles or employ coping mechanisms to conceal their symptoms. Jessica’s Misconception: Jessica, a mother and entrepreneur, discovered she had ADHD following her daughter’s diagnosis. She realized her lifelong struggles were attributed to the condition. With the right support, Jessica now better manages her responsibilities. Myth 6: It’s Hard to Get Diagnosed with ADHD Reality: The ADHD diagnosis process involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider. If you suspect you have ADHD, taking the initiative to seek help is absolutely worthwhile. Mark’s Worries: Mark initially felt overwhelmed by the prospect of an ADHD diagnosis. With guidance from a psychiatrist, he found the process straightforward, ultimately opening the door to effective treatment. Conclusion: Understanding ADHD involves dispelling myths and embracing realities. It affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. If you suspect you or a loved one has ADHD, don’t hesitate to seek professional help—it’s a crucial step toward regaining control, improving your quality of life, and realizing your full potential. Thank you for joining me on this journey to uncover the truths about ADHD. Stay tuned for more insights on mental health and well-being. Share this:FacebookLinkedInXWhatsAppMorePinterest ADHD ADHDadhd symptoms in womenhow to get diagnosed with adhdMental HealthMental well being
ADHD ADHD in Women: A Psychiatrist’s Perspective December 16, 2023December 17, 2023 This article by Dr Babor Aganren explores the distinctive features of ADHD in women, shedding light on the “masking effect” that often conceals symptoms, the impact of hormonal fluctuations, and the nuanced diagnostic challenges. It explores issues from implications on personal and professional life to effective treatment approaches encompassing medication management, counseling, lifestyle modifications, and workplace accommodations. Share this:FacebookLinkedInXWhatsAppMorePinterest Read More
Navigating ADHD Burnout: A Comprehensive Guide November 7, 2023December 10, 2023 In this article, “Navigating ADHD Burnout: A Comprehensive Guide,” Dr. Babor Aganren, a seasoned consultant psychiatrist, delves into the often-overlooked phenomenon of ADHD burnout. Expertly navigating the complexities, he elucidates its causes, symptoms, and effective strategies for management and prevention. Dr. Aganren’s comprehensive guide serves as a valuable resource, offering insights and practical tips for those grappling with ADHD burnout, reinforcing the message that effective management is achievable with the right tools and support. Share this:FacebookLinkedInXWhatsAppMorePinterest Read More
ADHD ADHD Medication in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide January 20, 2024 Navigating ADHD Medication in the UK is a journey of understanding, trial, and collaboration. This comprehensive guide explores ADHD, emphasizing the importance of medication alongside therapy and lifestyle adjustments. From Methylphenidate to Atomoxetine, it delves into available medications, addressing concerns like side effects and misuse. Share this:FacebookLinkedInXWhatsAppMorePinterest Read More