What Causes ADD and ADHD?

For years, there was an argument that ADD and ADHD were a product of bad parenting. Many believed that as long as your children were disciplined, they wouldn’t be so willing to misbehave. Research over recent years has continually pointed to a different answer. As more research is done, many health professionals are in agreement that ADD and ADHD are very real mental health issues, caused by chemical or development abnormalities in the brain If you or someone close to you is suffering from ADD or ADHD, there are things you can do to help. 

According to many researchers, the main causes of ADD and ADHD are genetic. Scientists have recently begun researching the specific gene or genes that cause ADD and ADHD. The most likely genetic cause of ADD and ADHD involve the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is either overactive or underactive in the brain, and can be found with other chemical imbalances that cause changes in attention, focus, and regular function of the brain. 

There are many researchers, however, that claim there are other causes of these disorders. A growing number of mental health professionals are suggesting that DNA isn’t the only factor that can cause ADD and ADHD. A new theory has emerged suggesting that the fast-paced world in which we live could contribute greatly to the increasing rates of ADD and ADHD in today’s youth. So many students have information flying in their face all day and are constantly learning and discovering things, making it difficult in many cases for them to adapt to the slow pace of the average classroom. While many schools are taking steps to remedy this problem, there is still a lot of room for improvement. 

High paced video games are also blamed for ADD and ADHD. The flashing lights and competition can overstimulate the brain’s reward system if consumed too often. However, video games aren’t always bad for you or your child, if limits are imposed and online gaming is balanced with other forms of cognitive activity. Balanced play and proper stimulation in school can help children with ADD and ADHD cope with their challenges. However, this should not discount the very real genetic and neurological causes of ADD and ADHD that will make school and play difficult for children despite their environment. 

There are many factors that can lead to ADD or ADHD, and there are many people dealing with these conditions every day. It is important to know that there is help available and that the person suffering from these disorders can learn to cope with them. Reach out for help from Reboot, and you can get through any mental health issue.