ADHD Facts You Should Know About
ADHD Can Result from Trauma
Have you ever wondered what causes ADHD? A recent report suggests that environmental factors, particularly childhood trauma, could be linked to an ADHD diagnosis. Adverse childhood events (ACEs), such as the death of a parent or domestic violence, significantly increase the likelihood of developing ADHD. The more ACEs a child experiences, the higher the chance of an ADHD diagnosis.
ADHD Can Cause Premature Death
New evidence reveals that ADHD’s implications are more severe than just trouble completing tasks. A long-term study tracking nearly 2 million people found that those with ADHD (around 32,000 individuals) were twice as likely to die prematurely, often due to unnatural causes like accidents. The risk of early death also increased based on the age at diagnosis, with women and girls facing a higher risk than men and boys.
ADHD Could Be Something We Give Ourselves
There is substantial evidence suggesting that toxin exposure might play a significant role in ADHD development. Tobacco use during pregnancy or exposure to cigarette smoke can increase a child’s risk of developing ADHD. Additionally, one study found a correlation between states with higher levels of artificially fluoridated water and increased ADHD prevalence. Pesticides are also believed to significantly impact ADHD rates.
ADHD is Being Treated with Dangerous Drugs and Little Else
Alarmingly, only about a quarter of U.S. children with ADHD receive behavioral therapy, while the majority rely solely on potentially dangerous stimulants. Some argue that this over-reliance on medication is driven more by pharmaceutical companies’ marketing tactics than by medical necessity. This raises concerns about the safety and ethics of ADHD treatment, especially given the spotty safety testing of these drugs.
One Final Thought
Despite the concerning facts about ADHD, remember that you might not have it. Various conditions, such as thyroid disorders or certain allergies, can mimic ADHD symptoms. If you are sure it’s ADHD, there is research suggesting that exercise can help mitigate symptoms. Another study indicates that living at higher altitudes may result in fewer ADHD cases. While many children outgrow ADHD symptoms, some adults continue to face challenges related to the condition.
