The Multifaceted Nature of ADHD
In a world filled with constant distractions, understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is essential for us all. ADHD isn’t a one-size-fits-all label. It comes with various challenges and strengths that shape the neurodivergent experiences of those living with it. By understanding the multifaceted nature of ADHD, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate environment — one where neurodiversity is not just acknowledged but embraced.According to the Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada (CADDAC), ADHD affects approximately 5-7% of children and 4-6% of adults in Canada.
Recognizing Signs and Symptoms:
· ADHD reveals itself in various ways. From struggling to stay focused and impulsive behaviour to restlessness, it manifests differently in different folks. Look out for common signs and symptoms like difficulty focusing, impulsivity, hyperactivity, time management challenges, forgetfulness, and restlessness.
Exploring Different Types:
· ADHD isn’t a cookie-cutter condition. There are three main types: Predominantly Inattentive, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive, and Combined Presentation. Understanding these variations helps tailor support and interventions to individual needs. Click here for more information on the different types of ADHD.
Unraveling the Causes:
· ADHD’s origins are a puzzle of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. While society’s understanding is that genetics play most of the role, a handful of other aspects are being explored to contribute potentially.
Practical Strategies for Management:
· Managing ADHD is a collaborative effort. Behavioural therapies, counselling, and psychoeducation services can offer practical management tools. Medications may be prescribed based on symptoms, and lifestyle adjustments, such as regular exercise and effective time management techniques, complement these strategies. Click here to access a list of potentially helpful ADHD management strategies.
Diagnosis & Where to Seek Help:
· If you suspect ADHD, seeking professional evaluation can be helpful. Healthcare providers, psychiatrists, or psychologists specializing in ADHD can conduct assessments using interviews, observations, and rating scales. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes, making timely diagnosis helpful for most folks.
Seeking psychological assessments can become expensive for folks, and finances have often been a barrier to seeking support. “Beyond ADHD” is an online ADHD Clinic available in
Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan. This can be a relatively quicker and less expensive option for ADHD diagnosis. Please see here for more information about Beyond ADHD: https://beyondadhd.ca/
McMaster students may also benefit from the resources outlined below:
“ADHD Skills” Support Group
Registration required. For students who relate to/identify with ADHD traits, diagnosis is not required. A safe space for students to listen, share, relate and support one another while navigating university life dealing with similar challenges and strengths related to ADHD wiring.
ADHD ORGANIZATIONS WITH SERVICE DIRECTORIES
- Attention Deficit Disorder Association
- 1-800-939-1019
- add.org
- Offers resources, workshops, support groups.
- Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada (CADDAC)
- 366 Adelaide Street East, Suite 221,
- Toronto info@CADDAC.ca
- caddac.ca
- Offers resources for support, clinics, coaching.
- ADHD and Asperger’s Centre
- 55 Cork Street East, Unit 305, Guelph
- 519-830-1423
- contact@adhdinterrupted.com
- adhdinterrupted.com
- Offers assessments, coaching, supports.
HAMILTON CENTRES OFFERING ADHD ASSESSMENT
- Hamilton Psychological Services
- 1057 Main Street West Suite 2-01, Hamilton
- 905-527-5991
- info@hamiltonpsych.ca
- www.hamiltonpsych.ca
- Centre for Anxiety, Attention Deficit, and Trauma
- 1057 Main Street West, Suite L02, Hamilton
- 289-396-4242
- info@anxietyADDtreatment.com
- www.anxietyADDtreatment.com
- The Therapy Centre
- 849 Upper Wentworth Street, Unit 208, Hamilton
- 289-291-0206
- info@thetherapycentre.ca
- www.thetherapycentre.ca
CENTRES OFFERING ADHD ASESSMENT AND ADDITIONAL ADHD-RELATED SERVICES
- Advanced Cognitive Enhancement (ACE) Clinics
- 148 Finch Avenue West, North York
- 416-222-0004
- info@ACEclinics.com
- www.aceclinics.com
- Assessment not for diagnosis, but to identify cognitive areas that need improvement. Consultation fee is $395.00. No written report offered (verbal only).
- Possibilities Clinic
- 55 Eglington Avenue East, Suite 305, Toronto
- 416-482-5558
- www.possibilitiesclinic.com
- ADHD assessment fee is $1750.00. Written and verbal report offered.
- Springboard Clinic
- 1055 Yonge Street, Suite 306, Toronto
- 416-901-3077
- info@springboardclinic.com
- www.springboardclinic.com
- ADHD / mental health assessment fee is $2050.00. Psychoeducational Assessment fee is $3600.00.
- The ADHD Clinic
- 1849 Yonge Street, Suite 407, Toronto
- 416-304-1779
- www.theadhdclinic.ca
- Offers psychoeducational assessment, CBT therapy, coaching. Written and verbal report offered. Multiple languages available.
- Niagara Neuropsychology
- 166 Main Street East, Rear Entrance, Floor 2, Blue Door, Grimsby
- 289-235-8848
- niagaraneuropsychology@gmail.com
- niagaraneuropsychology.com
- Advanced ADHD assessment (7-8 hour testing) fee is $1225.00. Intermediate ADHD assessment (5-6 hour testing) fee is $800.00. Brief ADHD assessment (4 hour testing) fee is $675.00.