Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often associated with childhood, but it can have a big impact on adults, too. While the exact causes of ADHD are still being researched, neuropsychology offers valuable insights into the brain's role in ADHD, and the strategies adults can use to navigate life with ADHD.
Neuropsychological Foundations of ADHD
Neuropsychology is the study of how the brain and behavior are interconnected. As a psychologist who has been doing neuropsychological assessment for many years, I find it can be helpful for folks to understand how brain function connects to behavior in everyday situations. In ADHD, neuropsychological research has identified several key areas of the brain that may be involved:
Prefrontal Cortex:
This region of the brain is responsible for executive functions, such as planning, organizing, and decision-making. In individuals with ADHD, the prefrontal cortex may not function as efficiently, leading to challenges in these areas. For example, adults with ADHD may find that they are often losing things, have a hard time keeping a clean space, or feel anxious when making decisions, which can lead to procrastination or last-minute choices that aren’t well thought out.
Dopamine System:
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in reward, motivation, and attention. Studies suggest that individuals with ADHD may have imbalances in their dopamine system, which can contribute to symptoms like impulsivity and difficulty concentrating. For example, adults with ADHD might have a hard time meeting deadlines at work because it’s hard to focus on a task for a prolonged time. Or they might wait until the last minute to make plans, which can be frustrating for a partner or challenging as a parent trying to juggle kid schedules.
Basal Ganglia:
These structures are involved in motor control and learning. Dysfunctions in the basal ganglia may contribute to hyperactivity and restlessness in individuals with ADHD. For example, many adults with ADHD are not “hyperactive” in the way that we might think of a kid in school being out of their seat, but in adults, the basal ganglia involvement in ADHD can cause people to be fidgety or always on the go.
Neuropsychological Assessment of ADHD
Neuropsychological assessments can provide valuable information about the cognitive and emotional functioning of individuals with ADHD. These assessments typically involve a series of tasks designed to measure:
Attention: The ability to focus and sustain attention on a task.
Working memory: The ability to hold and manipulate information in the mind.
Executive functions: The ability to plan, organize, and problem-solve.
Processing speed: The ability to quickly process information.
By identifying specific cognitive strengths and weaknesses, neuropsychological assessments can help tailor treatment plans to address the unique needs of individuals with ADHD. I have assessed hundreds of adults with ADHD, and although it is a big investment of time, energy, and money to go through a neuropsychological assessment, it can often be a relief to know for sure about a clear diagnosis, and it can be the first step toward learning a new way of understanding yourself and managing differences in the way your brain works!
Psychological Treatment and Support for ADHD
While medication is often prescribed to manage ADHD symptoms, behavioral and psychological interventions can also play a vital role in helping individuals with ADHD develop coping strategies and improve their quality of life. These interventions may include:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to ADHD symptoms.
Executive Function Training (also called Cognitive Rehabilitation): This type of therapy focuses on building practical skills and strategies for improving executive functions, such as planning, organizing, and time management.
Neurofeedback: This technique involves training the brain to regulate its electrical activity, which may help improve attention and reduce hyperactivity.
Neuropsychology offers valuable insights into the brain's role in ADHD and provides a framework for understanding and treating the symptoms that can be most difficult for people. Even if you weren’t diagnosed with ADHD as a child, it is never too late for a proper diagnosis and the right treatment.
Seek Adult ADHD Assessments in Los Angeles
If you’re interested in an ADHD assessment, please feel free to contact Dr. Reger for a free 15-minute consultation. She can offer support and discuss whether neuropsychological testing can help. Start the testing process by following these simple steps:
Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule your appointment
Meet with Dr. Reger for an evaluation
Start gaining valuable insights about your mind!
Other Services Offered by Dr. Reger in Los Angeles, CA
I am happy to offer support with a variety of neuropsychological assessments in addition to ADHD testing. I am happy to also offer capacity assessments, neuropsychological and psychological assessments, pre-surgical assessments, and med-legal evaluations. In addition to evaluations, I also provide individual therapy, counseling for older adults, and mental health consultations and presentations. Visit my blog for more help today!
Additional Resources
CHADD: https://chadd.org/
ADHD Foundation: https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/
National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/