ADHD and Its Neurological Effects

Have you ever felt like you just can't focus or sit still, no matter how hard you try? Do you find your mind wandering a million miles a minute, even during important tasks? Lots of people show signs of ADHD without even realizing it. ADHD affects concentration and impulse control. In fact, studies show differences in the brains of those with ADHD. 

Key Parts of the Brain

The prefrontal cortex, which controls attention and motivation, tends to be less active in people with ADHD. This makes it hard to focus and control impulses. The ventral striatum, which is involved in reward and motivation, also seems to be impacted. This could explain why people with ADHD struggle with delaying gratification or finding motivation for uninteresting tasks.

The prefrontal cortex also controls executive functions like planning, problem-solving, and self-monitoring. Impairments here make it difficult to organize thoughts or activities, estimate the time needed for tasks, or learn from mistakes.

While ADHD brains may function differently, the good news is the brain remains plastic. Treatments like therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication can significantly help improve functioning and quality of life. The key is finding what works for each individual to strengthen attention, build motivation, and develop coping strategies to overcome challenges.

How ADHD Affects the Brain

ADHD impacts key brain areas of motivation, reward, decision-making, and self-control. The ADHD brain is wired differently from a neurotypical brain. Studies show that some areas of the ADHD brain, like the prefrontal cortex, which controls executive function, may be slightly smaller. The neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which regulate attention and motivation, also seem to play a role.

Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex, responsible for planning and problem-solving, tends to be underactive in those with ADHD. An underactive prefrontal cortex impairs one’s ability to focus attention, control behavior, and curb impulses or emotions. People with ADHD may have trouble sitting still, frequently interrupt others, and act without considering the consequences.

Finally, ADHD affects executive functions like working memory, inhibition, and shifting—the skills that help you manage tasks, control impulses, and adapt to change. Deficits here make it tough to get started on work, transition between activities, or complete chores and responsibilities.

Neurotransmitters

For starters, people with ADHD often have low levels of dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter that helps regulate attention and pleasure-seeking. This can make it hard to focus and lead to impulsiveness. Neurotransmitters are the messaging system between brain cells.

In people with ADHD, the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine seem to be in short supply or less active in areas of the brain important for focus and motivation. Medications for ADHD work by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters.

Deficits in norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in alertness and arousal, lead to problems with sustaining attention and effort. This often results in excessive daydreaming, zoning out, and forgetting or losing things.

Next Steps

While the root causes of ADHD are still being studied, most experts agree that genetics play a strong role. ADHD tends to run in families, and identical twins are more likely to share an ADHD diagnosis. Environmental factors may also contribute to or exacerbate symptoms.

By better understanding the neurological components at play in ADHD, targeted treatments can be developed. And though the ADHD brain may be wired differently, the good news is with proper treatment and support, people with ADHD can thrive.

ADHD is a serious medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment. The most effective way to determine the best course of treatment for your depression is to speak with a mental health professional. I use the latest research and treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to develop a customized plan based on your needs. I offer both in-person/in-office and online services, making it easy for you to access my services. Contact me today to schedule your first appointment.