Parents, it’s not You it could be ADHD

by LifeScape

Raising kids is hard enough. Every day it’s a juggling act. But for those of you that feel like you may be spinning, unable to stop and get even the simplest task done, just getting through the day can seem impossible. You’re not alone. Sometimes, that struggle to focus and make headway in the multiple roles we have is more than just having a lot to do. It could be adult ADHD.

For years, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was thought of only as a children’s condition. Many health professionals were trained that kids with the disorder would just grow out of it. That’s not the case. ADHD can affect people of all ages. While Adult ADHD was once considered rare, it’s now very common. The National Comorbidity Study estimates that 4.4% of adults in the United States meet the diagnostic criteria for it.

When it comes to parents, it’s often not until their child is diagnosed that they realize they might also have ADHD. In fact, when children are diagnosed, the parents will learn the condition is probably hereditary, with a 40% chance that one or both parents have it as well. So how can you determine if that’s what is behind your inability to focus or be productive?

• Problems prioritizing; poor time management skills • Problems focusing on a task • Trouble multitasking • Poor planning • Struggles to follow through and/or complete tasks • Difficulty with organization • Impulsiveness • Low frustration tolerance • Frequent mood swings • Trouble coping with stress • Excessive activity or relentlessness

If these symptoms sound familiar and you want more information, reach out to your primary doctor. They may recommend medication or behavior therapy, or a combination of both. Keep in mind treatments work differently for everyone, but there are many resources available to you. l

You are busier than ever right now adjusting to new schools, routines, and activities. The last thing you have time to search for are events happening in the community. But don’t worry, our ‘Hood website is loaded with events, classes, and activities just for you! Haven’t visited before?

Well, here are four things to know about the ‘Hood “Things to Do” Event Calendar.

1. Search function! If you want to know if something specific is happening, type in our search bar and hit enter – or use our advanced search function – to find just what you are looking for. You can even tailor your search by age and location to find the perfect outing for your family.

2. Friends or family in town? Find things to do with your guests to allow them to experience our great community.

3. Add in your own events! It may be the ‘Hood Calendar, but it’s for the community, by the community. If you have something going on that you want our readers to know about, add it to our calendar.

4. Don’t have time to visit our website? Sign up for our newsletter and get our top picks delivered right to your inbox each week. l