AYURVEDA PERSPECTIVE ON ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)

ADHD is a nervous system disorder characterized by difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It can be broken down into several types:

• Hyperactive type - More common in boys. Symptoms include fidgeting, restlessness, hard to make them focus, always trying to talk, getting into dangerous sports. Pacing the room.
• Inattentive type - More common in girls. Needs something new, exciting, visually stimulating, surprising or shocking - grabs their attention.
• Combined type - Features of both

ADHD is perhaps a misnomer, because clients do not have a deficit of attention. Instead, their attention switches too rapidly. It would more accurate to name the condition attention switching disorder. It is a state of disinhibition where the cerebral cortex fails in its ability to analyze and calm down the limbic system down after stimulation. The result is 3 negative traits: Distraction, Impulsivity, and Hyperactivity. According to Dr. Ned Hallowell, "ADHD is like having a Ferrari engine for a brain with bicycle brakes. Strengthen the brakes and you have a champion."

Symptoms of ADHD

• Impulse buys, emotional eating, trouble follow through, starting multiple projects, etc.
• Reactionary, Constantly feeling rejected (Rejection sensitivity dysphoria)
• Trouble filtering other less relevant background info - dog barking in background, etc.
• Trouble getting started on a task

The neurotransmitters GABA, serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine help regulate various functions in the brain, including mood, attention, and behavior. Low levels of dopamine and norepinephrine may create the inattention and impulsivity seen in ADHD. Serotonin is known to play a role and has been linked to ADHD but the relationship between serotonin and ADHD is not well understood. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Low levels of GABA have been linked to hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Clinical Features of ADHD

ADHD individuals are typically lean individuals. Brain scans of patients with ADHD show deficient blood flow to the brain.

Lifestyle Changes

• Start a contemplative practice that includes movement. Keep your eyes open during your contemplative practice so you stay grounded.
• Keep a strong routine - eat meals and go to sleep at the same time each day
• Stay hydrated and keep electrolytes balanced
• Fidget toys (fidget spinner) can help bring focus in.
• Teachers should present things in a new or fun way. Something that is moving, visual, interesting
• Set your phone alarm to take a 5 minute breaks every half hour. Stretch and do breathing exercises to re-calibrate and relax.
• Hire a coach to keep you on task
• Avoid video games, excess screen time

Individuals with ADHD show willingness to take risks and may thrive in adventure sports, as entrepreneurs, etc.