If someone close to you or a loved one has ADHD ( Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ), you may sometimes find that certain behaviors of that person bother you, them, or others. In fact, these behaviors can be directly related to the ADHD condition. Not all adults with ADHD are prone to risky behaviors, but the majority do.
Why is this happening? What is the reason for this?
To understand why, we need to go a little deeper into the brain. Simply put, our brains have special chemicals that carry messages back and forth. We call these neurotransmitters. Dopamine is a very important neurotransmitter that controls things like our happiness, satisfaction, and attention.
Research has found that dopamine levels in the brains of people with ADHD are generally slightly lower.
"When you're tempted to do risky things, dopamine levels in the brain suddenly increase. Because people with ADHD get that dopamine 'kick' they don't have from things like this, they can be drawn into these risky things without even realizing it," says Stephanie Sarkis, PhD, a mental health counselor.
That means they feel a little bit of satisfaction and happiness when they drive fast or spend money recklessly. This is because they get less dopamine at that time. In addition, some genetic influences can also make people with ADHD more impulsive and impulsive.
For some people, these problems may be as minor as being late for meetings. But for others, they can be as serious as speeding or drug or alcohol abuse. So, understanding the connection between ADHD and these risky behaviors is important for you and your loved one with ADHD.
Common problems and risky behaviors associated with ADHD
Let's take a look at some of the common problems and risky behaviors associated with ADHD.
| Risky behavior/problem | A little explanation |
|---|---|
| Difficulty starting or finishing work | It could be homework or work. Even if you start, it's hard to stay focused and finish. |
| Breaking promises and being late | It is common to see people not being punctual and being late for appointments and responsibilities. |
| Spending money recklessly | Without a plan, we spend a lot of money on impulse. We regret it later. |
| Frequent quarrels | Being easily angered and arguing can disrupt social relationships. |
| Difficulty maintaining relationships | It becomes difficult to maintain friendships and romantic relationships. |
| Driving dangerously | Excessive speed and reckless overtaking are the most likely causes of accidents. |
| Drug and alcohol use | People with ADHD are about six times more likely to become addicted to drugs or alcohol. |
| Risky sexual behavior | It can lead to things like having unprotected sex. |
In addition to these things, family environment, friends, other mental health problems such as depression, or head injuries can also contribute to an increase in these risky behaviors.
How can I help you?
If someone you know with ADHD is engaging in these types of risky behaviors, there are a few things you can do to help.
1. Don't accuse, try to understand.
The most important thing is to remember that ADHD is a biological, neurological , and genetic condition . It's not something that anyone can intentionally make up. It's real, and it can have real effects.
If you speak to him with kindness and understanding rather than getting angry or criticizing, he's more likely to trust you and talk to you about a problem when he has one.
2. Plan and join in with it.
The frontal lobes of our brain are responsible for organization and planning for the future. This part of the brain functions a little differently when you have ADHD.
So, help him plan his day and establish a routine. For example, you could both make a calendar together and get into the habit of doing certain things at the same time every day. This will help him be less likely to be late and break promises.
3. Exercise together
New research suggests that exercise can help reduce ADHD symptoms. One reason is that even just a few minutes of physical activity can increase levels of chemicals in the brain like dopamine. If you can increase dopamine levels through healthy means like exercise, you may be less likely to engage in risky behaviors like drinking alcohol or driving too fast.
4. Refer for treatment and encourage it
Medications for ADHD can be very helpful for some people. One study found that when men with ADHD took their medication correctly, they were able to reduce their risk of getting into a car accident by more than 50%.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is also very effective in reducing ADHD symptoms. It involves identifying our negative thoughts, changing them, and improving our behavior.
"The results are much greater when both medication and counseling are used together. So if your loved one is not seeing a psychiatrist or counselor, refer them to one," advises Ms. Sarkis.
It's important to see a doctor who specializes in ADHD to determine whether your loved one needs medication. While ADHD cannot be cured completely, proper treatment can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.
Take-Home Message
- ADHD is not something someone does on purpose, it is a real medical condition.
- Risky behaviors are often associated with low levels of dopamine in the brain.
- It is much more effective to be understanding and supportive rather than angry.
- Helping them plan their day and establish a routine can make a big difference.
- By engaging in healthy habits like exercise together, you can reduce risky behaviors.
- The most important thing is to encourage people to seek medical advice and treatment from a doctor who has expertise in this area.
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