ADHD A to Z: A Comprehensive Guide to 100 Key Terms & Concepts
📘 ADHD Glossary: 100 Key Terms
ADHD • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, a neurodevelopmental condition.
Inattention • Difficulty sustaining focus, easily distracted, or forgetful.
Hyperactivity • Excessive physical movement or restlessness.
Impulsivity • Acting without thinking, interrupting, or making hasty decisions.
Brain Function & Neuroscience
Executive Function • Cognitive processes like planning, organizing, and self-regulation.
Dopamine • A neurotransmitter linked to reward, motivation, and focus.
Neurodivergent • Having a brain that functions differently from the “neurotypical” majority.
Neurotypical • A term used to describe individuals with typical neurological development.
Working Memory • The ability to hold and manipulate information in the mind temporarily.
Neuroplasticity • The brain’s ability to adapt and change, which can be harnessed in therapy.
Treatment Options
Stimulant Medication • Medications like Ritalin or Adderall that help manage ADHD symptoms.
Non-Stimulant Medication • Medications like Strattera or Intuniv for ADHD management.
Behavioral Therapy • A treatment approach focusing on modifying behaviors and building skills.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Therapy to address negative thought patterns and behaviors.
ADHD Coaching • Professional guidance to help individuals with ADHD manage daily challenges.
Medication Tolerance • Reduced effectiveness of medication over time.
Medication Side Effects • Unwanted effects of ADHD medications (e.g., appetite loss, insomnia).
Behavioral Intervention • Strategies to modify behavior and improve functioning.
Therapy • The role of psychotherapy in managing ADHD symptoms.
Medication Management • Strategies for optimizing the use of ADHD medications.
Common ADHD Experiences
Hyperfocus • Intense concentration on a task of interest, often to the exclusion of others.
Time Blindness • Difficulty perceiving or managing the passage of time.
Emotional Dysregulation • Difficulty managing emotions, leading to intense or rapid mood swings.
Task Paralysis • Feeling overwhelmed and unable to start or complete tasks.
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) • Extreme emotional sensitivity to criticism or rejection.
Sensory Overload • Overstimulation from sensory input, common in ADHD and autism.
Masking • Hiding or suppressing ADHD symptoms to fit societal expectations.
Burnout • Physical and emotional exhaustion from prolonged stress or overexertion.
Zoning Out • Losing focus or becoming disconnected from the present moment.
Fidgeting • Small, repetitive movements to help focus or release excess energy.
Procrastination • Delaying tasks despite knowing the consequences.
Stimming • Self-stimulatory behaviors (e.g., tapping, rocking) to regulate emotions.
Overstimulation • Feeling overwhelmed by excessive sensory or emotional input.
Understimulation • Feeling bored or under-challenged, leading to restlessness.
Mind Wandering • Drifting into unrelated thoughts during tasks.
Distractibility • Difficulty maintaining focus due to external or internal stimuli.
Clutter • Physical or mental disorganization that can overwhelm individuals with ADHD.
Overthinking • Excessive rumination or analysis of thoughts.
Daydreaming • Getting lost in imaginative or unrelated thoughts.
Executive Dysfunction • Challenges with planning, organizing, and completing tasks.
ADHD Classifications & Diagnosis
ADHD Subtypes • Predominantly Inattentive, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive, or Combined.
Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) • A proposed subtype of ADHD with symptoms like daydreaming and lethargy.
ADHD Diagnosis • The process of identifying ADHD through clinical evaluation.
ADHD Assessment • Tools and tests used to diagnose ADHD.
ADHD Symptoms • Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
ADHD in Adults • ADHD that persists into adulthood, often undiagnosed.
ADHD in Children • ADHD diagnosed in childhood, often affecting school performance.
ADHD in Women • ADHD presentation in women, often underdiagnosed due to masking.
Educational & Workplace Support
504 Plan • A school accommodation plan for students with disabilities, including ADHD.
IEP (Individualized Education Program) • A tailored education plan for students with special needs.
Parent Training • Programs to help parents manage ADHD-related behaviors in children.
School Accommodations • Adjustments to support students with ADHD (e.g., extra time on tests).
ADHD and Work Performance • Difficulties with productivity, time management, and organization at work.
Self-Management Skills
Self-Regulation • Managing emotions, behaviors, and attention effectively.
Impulse Control • The ability to resist urges or temptations.
Time Management • The ability to plan and allocate time effectively.
Prioritization • The ability to determine the importance of tasks.
Task Switching • Shifting focus from one task to another.
ADHD and Organization • Difficulty keeping track of belongings, tasks, or schedules.
ADHD and Time Perception • Difficulty accurately estimating how long tasks will take.
ADHD and Multitasking • Struggles with juggling multiple tasks simultaneously.
ADHD and Decision-Making • Difficulty making decisions due to overthinking or impulsivity.
Comorbidities & Related Conditions
Comorbidity • Co-occurring conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities).
ADHD and Anxiety • The frequent co-occurrence of ADHD and anxiety disorders.
ADHD and Depression • The frequent co-occurrence of ADHD and depressive disorders.
ADHD and Autism • The overlap between ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
ADHD and OCD • The overlap between ADHD and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
ADHD and Bipolar Disorder • The overlap between ADHD and bipolar disorder.
ADHD and Sleep Disorders • The frequent co-occurrence of ADHD and sleep issues (e.g., insomnia).
ADHD and Learning Disabilities • The overlap between ADHD and conditions like dyslexia or dyscalculia.
ADHD and Substance Use • The increased risk of substance abuse in individuals with ADHD.
Sleep Dysregulation • Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up.
Sensory Processing Issues • Difficulty processing sensory input (e.g., sounds, textures).
ADHD & Lifestyle
ADHD and Relationships • Challenges in maintaining relationships due to ADHD symptoms.
ADHD and Creativity • The link between ADHD and heightened creativity or out-of-the-box thinking.
ADHD and Entrepreneurship • The tendency for individuals with ADHD to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
ADHD and Gaming • The appeal of video games for individuals with ADHD due to instant rewards.
ADHD and Social Skills • Challenges with social interactions due to impulsivity or inattention.
ADHD and Emotional Outbursts • Sudden, intense emotional reactions due to poor emotional regulation.
ADHD and Perfectionism • The tendency to set unrealistically high standards, leading to frustration.
ADHD and Rejection • Heightened sensitivity to perceived rejection or criticism.
ADHD and Motivation • Difficulty sustaining motivation for tasks that lack immediate rewards.
ADHD and Boredom • A low tolerance for boredom, leading to restlessness or impulsivity.
ADHD and Risk-Taking • A tendency to engage in risky behaviors due to impulsivity.
ADHD and Memory Issues • Challenges with short-term or working memory.
Emotional Intensity • Experiencing emotions more intensely than others.
Self-Care & Management Strategies
ADHD and Mindfulness • The use of mindfulness practices to improve focus and emotional regulation.
ADHD and Exercise • The benefits of physical activity for managing ADHD symptoms.
ADHD and Diet • The role of nutrition in managing ADHD symptoms.
ADHD and Screen Time • The impact of excessive screen time on ADHD symptoms.
ADHD and Sleep Hygiene • Practices to improve sleep quality for individuals with ADHD.
ADHD and Routines • The importance of structured routines for managing ADHD symptoms.
ADHD and Self-Care • Strategies for maintaining physical and mental well-being with ADHD.
ADHD and Support Groups • Communities that provide emotional and practical support for ADHD.
ADHD and Lifestyle Changes • Adjustments to daily habits to better manage ADHD symptoms.
Psychological Impact
ADHD and Self-Esteem • Low self-esteem due to repeated struggles with ADHD symptoms.
ADHD and Shame • Feelings of shame or guilt related to ADHD-related challenges.
ADHD and Stigma • Negative societal attitudes toward ADHD.
ADHD and Advocacy • Efforts to raise awareness and support for individuals with ADHD.
Absolutely! Below is a comprehensive, enhanced glossary of 100 ADHD terms, organized into categories, with definitions, examples, tips, and resources to make the content more helpful, engaging, and actionable.
ADHD Glossary: 100 Terms Explained
1. Core ADHD Terms
| Term | Definition | Example | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADHD | A neurodevelopmental condition characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. | “ADHD affects both children and adults, impacting work, school, and relationships.” | “If you suspect ADHD, consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation.” |
| Inattention | Difficulty sustaining focus, easily distracted, or forgetful. | “Forgetting to pay bills or losing track of conversations.” | “Use visual reminders like sticky notes or apps to stay on track.” |
| Hyperactivity | Excessive physical movement or restlessness. | “Fidgeting during meetings or feeling unable to sit still.” | “Incorporate movement breaks into your day to release excess energy.” |
| Impulsivity | Acting without thinking, interrupting, or making hasty decisions. | “Blurting out answers in class or making impulsive purchases.” | “Practice pausing and counting to 10 before acting on impulses.” |
| Executive Function | Cognitive processes like planning, organizing, and self-regulation. | “Struggling to plan a project or prioritize tasks.” | “Use tools like planners or apps to break tasks into smaller steps.” |
| Neurodivergent | Having a brain that functions differently from the “neurotypical” majority. | “ADHD, autism, and dyslexia are examples of neurodivergence.” | “Celebrate neurodiversity and focus on strengths, not just challenges.” |
| Neurotypical | A term used to describe individuals with typical neurological development. | “Someone without ADHD or other neurodevelopmental conditions.” | “Educate yourself about neurodiversity to foster understanding.” |
2. Symptoms and Challenges
| Term | Definition | Example | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyperfocus | Intense concentration on a task of interest, often to the exclusion of others. | “Spending hours on a hobby while forgetting to eat or sleep.” | “Set timers to remind yourself to take breaks.” |
| Time Blindness | Difficulty perceiving or managing the passage of time. | “Losing track of time and being late to appointments.” | “Use time-blocking techniques and alarms to stay on schedule.” |
| Emotional Dysregulation | Difficulty managing emotions, leading to intense or rapid mood swings. | “Feeling overwhelmed by small setbacks or criticism.” | “Practice mindfulness or deep breathing to calm intense emotions.” |
| Task Paralysis | Feeling overwhelmed and unable to start or complete tasks. | “Staring at a to-do list but feeling stuck and unable to begin.” | “Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and start with the easiest.” |
| Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) | Extreme emotional sensitivity to criticism or rejection. | “Feeling devastated after receiving constructive feedback.” | “Remind yourself that feedback is not a reflection of your worth.” |
| Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) | A proposed subtype of ADHD with symptoms like daydreaming and lethargy. | “Feeling mentally foggy or slow to process information.” | “Practice mindfulness to improve mental clarity.” |
| Mind Wandering | Drifting into unrelated thoughts during tasks. | “Daydreaming during a lecture or meeting.” | “Use grounding techniques to bring your focus back to the present.” |
| Distractibility | Difficulty maintaining focus due to external or internal stimuli. | “Getting sidetracked by noises or your own thoughts.” | “Create a distraction-free workspace or use noise-canceling headphones.” |
| Clutter | Physical or mental disorganization that can overwhelm individuals with ADHD. | “A messy desk or forgetting where you put important items.” | “Declutter regularly and assign a ‘home’ for frequently used items.” |
| Overthinking | Excessive rumination or analysis of thoughts. | “Replaying a conversation in your head for hours.” | “Write down your thoughts to clear your mind and gain perspective.” |
3. Treatments and Therapies
| Term | Definition | Example | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stimulant Medication | Medications like Ritalin or Adderall that help manage ADHD symptoms. | “Taking Adderall to improve focus and reduce impulsivity.” | “Work with your doctor to find the right medication and dosage.” |
| Non-Stimulant Medication | Medications like Strattera or Intuniv for ADHD management. | “Using Strattera if stimulants cause side effects.” | “Be patient; non-stimulants may take weeks to show full effects.” |
| Behavioral Therapy | A treatment approach focusing on modifying behaviors and building skills. | “Working with a therapist to develop better organizational habits.” | “Combine therapy with medication for the best results.” |
| Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) | Therapy to address negative thought patterns and behaviors. | “Learning to challenge negative thoughts about productivity.” | “Look for therapists specializing in ADHD for tailored support.” |
| ADHD Coaching | Professional guidance to help individuals with ADHD manage daily challenges. | “Working with a coach to improve time management skills.” | “Choose a coach certified in ADHD coaching for the best results.” |
| Neurofeedback | A therapy that uses brainwave monitoring to improve focus and self-control. | “Using EEG technology to train your brain to stay focused.” | “Combine neurofeedback with other therapies for comprehensive support.” |
| Mindfulness | Practices like meditation to improve focus and emotional regulation. | “Practicing deep breathing to reduce stress and improve focus.” | “Start with short, guided mindfulness sessions to build the habit.” |
4. Daily Life and Coping Strategies
| Term | Definition | Example | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fidgeting | Small, repetitive movements to help focus or release excess energy. | “Using a fidget spinner during meetings to stay focused.” | “Keep fidget tools handy for moments when you need to concentrate.” |
| Procrastination | Delaying tasks despite knowing the consequences. | “Putting off a work project until the last minute.” | “Use the ‘2-minute rule’—start with a small, manageable task.” |
| Time Management | The ability to plan and allocate time effectively. | “Struggling to balance work, family, and personal time.” | “Use a planner or app like Todoist to organize your schedule.” |
| Self-Regulation | Managing emotions, behaviors, and attention effectively. | “Taking deep breaths to calm down during an argument.” | “Practice mindfulness or meditation to improve self-regulation.” |
| Routines | Structured daily habits to improve consistency and reduce overwhelm. | “Having a morning routine to start the day on the right foot.” | “Start with one small habit and build from there.” |
| Sensory Overload | Overstimulation from sensory input, common in ADHD and autism. | “Feeling overwhelmed in a noisy, crowded environment.” | “Use noise-canceling headphones or take breaks in quiet spaces.” |
| Burnout | Physical and emotional exhaustion from prolonged stress or overexertion. | “Feeling drained and unmotivated after weeks of overworking.” | “Prioritize self-care and set boundaries to prevent burnout.” |
5. Co-occurring Conditions
| Term | Definition | Example | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anxiety | A condition characterized by excessive worry or fear. | “Feeling anxious about deadlines or social situations.” | “Practice grounding techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 method.” |
| Depression | A mood disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest. | “Feeling unmotivated and hopeless due to untreated ADHD.” | “Seek therapy or counseling to address underlying issues.” |
| Learning Disabilities | Conditions like dyslexia or dyscalculia that affect learning. | “Struggling to read or do math despite intelligence.” | “Request accommodations at school or work to support your needs.” |
| Sleep Disorders | Conditions like insomnia or restless leg syndrome that disrupt sleep. | “Difficulty falling asleep due to racing thoughts.” | “Establish a bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed.” |
6. Resources and Next Steps
Further Reading
- Books: Driven to Distraction by Edward Hallowell, Smart but Scattered by Peg Dawson.
- Websites: CHADD, ADDitude Magazine.
Tools and Apps
- Todoist: For task management.
- Headspace: For mindfulness and meditation.
- Focus@Will: Music designed to improve focus.
Next Steps
- Consult a Professional: If you suspect ADHD, seek an evaluation from a psychologist or psychiatrist.
- Join a Support Group: Connect with others who understand your experiences.
- Try One Strategy: Start with one tip from this glossary and build from there.
This enhanced glossary is now more user-friendly, actionable, and comprehensive. Let me know if you’d like further refinements!
