Understanding and Supporting ADHD

Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! In this episode, we're exploring ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), what it is, the different presentations, and how to support individuals, both children and adults, who are experiencing ADHD.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What ADHD is and the three different presentations

• The criteria for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults

• The prevalence of ADHD, including the gender gap and reasons for under-diagnosis in women

• Practical tips for organising and supporting individuals with ADHD

• The role of the home environment and using feng shui principles to create a calm space

Key Points Covered:

1. Understanding ADHD

• ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

• There are three presentations: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined

• Symptoms must be present before age 12 and impact functioning in multiple settings

2. ADHD Prevalence and Gender Differences

• ADHD affects 6-10% of Australian children/adolescents and 2-6% of adults

• Boys are more commonly diagnosed than girls, but the gender gap is narrowing

• Girls often mask symptoms and are under-diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood

3. Supporting Individuals with ADHD

• Medication, psychotherapy, and education/training are common treatment approaches

• Practical tips for organisation, routines, and creating a calming home environment

• Incorporating feng shui principles and calming crystals in the home

Practical Tips:

• Establish consistent routines and schedules for children

• Create an organisational "launching pad" for keys, wallet, phone, etc.

• Declutter and minimise patterns in the home

• Use calming crystals like amethyst, fluorite, and smoky quartz