ADHD is commonly viewed as a child’s behavioral issue or a lack of proper parenting. With this viewpoint, it can shed a negative light on anyone who is living with ADHD. It’s an unfortunate misunderstanding of what it truly means to have ADHD.
The reality is, people with ADHD have a unique way of interacting with the world and live different experiences. ADHD doesn’t equate to being broken or less than in any way. Your brain is simply wired differently.
This particular neurodevelopmental condition is more complex than it seems and can stem from multiple interacting factors. The relationship between them influences how your brain functions. By gaining an understanding of what the causes of ADHD may be, you can learn how to manage your symptoms better and appreciate the silver linings that come with it.
Genetics
As with many medical and mental health conditions, ADHD tends to run in families. Your genes can play a large role in determining whether or not you develop any form of ADHD. There is a wide range of genetic variants that can shape the wiring of your brain. Each one can be a contributing factor in its own way.
This isn’t to say that you’re predetermined at birth to have ADHD. It simply counters the argument that ADHD is the result of laziness or a lack of discipline.
Brain Development
ADHD at its core revolves around the way your brain develops and functions. There are multiple regions in the brain, all responsible for specific behaviors and processes. The main ones to be aware of for ADHD purposes are the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, limbic system, and cerebellum.
Prefrontal cortex: This area of the brain is responsible for higher-level cognitive tasks like planning, decision-making, and impulse control.
Basal ganglia: This area influences motor control, new learning, and executive functioning.
Limbic system: This system influences your emotional processing, motivation, reactivity, and impulsivity.
Cerebellum: This area of the brain is involved with motor control and coordination.
There may also be a link between ADHD and a neurotransmitter imbalance. Dopamine, which helps to regulate your mood, motivation, and attention, is known to be affected in people who have ADHD.
Early Life and Environmental Factors
Genetics may be the framework, but there are prenatal and early life factors that can influence ADHD manifesting at a point later in life. Exposure to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs while in the womb can be a contributing factor.
Being a premie baby or born with a low birth weight can also increase your risk for developing ADHD. Similarly, early childhood trauma or stress may also play a role.
These early life factors aren’t the sole contributors to ADHD manifesting, but when they combine with potential genetic factors, they can shape the way the brain develops over time.
Finding the Silver Lining with ADHD
There are many opinions and stigmas surrounding what ADHD is and how it develops. It’s important to note that it isn’t a reflection of intelligence or character. Many people with ADHD are smart, successful, passionate, and have learned how to embrace their differences. These differences can fuel creativity, spontaneity, and a unique out-of-the-box thinking that can only come from this wiring.
Diving into the causes and increasing your awareness allows you to reframe how you view living with ADHD. It can offer you a greater sense of self-compassion and open new doors that you may not have realized before.
If you or someone you love is struggling to navigate the ADHD journey, know you aren’t alone. ADHD therapy offers a safe environment where you can learn how to better understand your brain and establish strategies that work for you. If you’re hoping to find more clarity on your situation, reach out to us to get started.
