What is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect individuals of all ages, characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (although not necessarily all three).

It is primarily associated with deficits in the executive functioning system, which refers to a set of complex cognitive skills including working memory, emotion regulation, planning and organisation.

Emerging research has revealed a complex relationship between ADHD, weight, and disordered eating. Indeed, some studies suggest that around 40% of people with a BMI of 40 or above have ADHD. Furthermore, research indicates that people with ADHD are 3 times more likely to have Type 2 Diabetes.

What does ADHD have to do with weight and eating?

People with ADHD might struggle with eating and weight than neurotypical people because of the following:

1. Impulsivity

Individuals with ADHD often struggle with impulse control. This can extend to their

eating habits, leading to impulsive food choices and overeating. The inability to delay

gratification or make mindful dietary decisions can contribute to unhealthy eating

patterns and weight gain.

2. Emotional Regulation

Emotional dysregulation is a common feature of ADHD. Difficulty managing emotions can lead to emotional eating as a coping mechanism. This emotional eating may involve consuming comfort foods that are often high in calories, sugars, and unhealthy fats, contributing to weight gain. Research suggests that people with

ADHD have lower dopamine levels than people without ADHD. These types of foods can be seen as a way of people with ADHD getting a “dopamine” hit.

3. Executive Function Deficits

ADHD can impair executive functions, which include planning, organising, and goal-setting. Such deficits may impact an individual’s ability to plan and maintain a

balanced diet or a regular exercise routine. These executive function deficits can further exacerbate weight management issues.

4. Medication Side Effects

Many individuals with ADHD manage their symptoms with prescription medications. Some of these medications may lead to changes in appetite and metabolism,

potentially influencing weight gain. It’s essential for individuals and their healthcare providers to closely monitor these side effects and make adjustments as needed.

5. Attention deficits and differences

People with ADHD may struggle with attention to internal cues such as hunger and satiety, leaving them susceptible to sudden extreme hunger which can lead to binge behaviours and/or non-nutritious food choices. This may be particular seen in the “hyperfocus” feature of ADHD. While people with ADHD struggle to sustain attention on things they find boring, they can hyperfocus on things they find interest for long periods of time .

How we can help?

Understanding the intricate relationship between ADHD, weight, and disordered eating is crucial for effective treatment. Our psychologist can help you by:

• Implementing behavioural strategies to improve impulse control and emotional regulation.

• Teaching cognitive-behavioural strategies to manage disordered eating behaviours and promote healthier eating habits.

• Supporting you to create “scaffolds” for your executive functioning to help with planning your meals and exercise.

• Encouraging a holistic approach to wellness, including regular physical activity and nutritional education.

• Helping to nurture self-compassion and acceptance for eating difficulties caused by ADHD.

• Supporting you with medication adherence.

Do I have ADHD?

Some of the key features of ADHD are listed below. While it is fairly common for ADHD to be picked up in school-aged children, it is now emerging that many adults have slipped through the net of assessment and diagnosis. Unfortunately, some of these adults have either thought of themselves – or been told by others – that they are “lazy”, “dumb”, “badly behaved” or worse, when in fact their behaviours can be explained by ADHD.

Some of the key features of ADHD are listed below. If you think you might have ADHD and would like further assessment, our clinical psychologist at Noi Clinic can provide this service (over 18s only). To make sure that assessment is appropriate for you, we can provide you with a free screening tool. Please contact us for further information.

Symptoms of ADHD:

Inattention:

1. Frequently failing to pay close attention to details, or making careless mistakes

2. Frequent difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or activities

3. Often seeming not to listen when spoken to directly

4. Frequent difficulty organising tasks and activities

5. Often avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort

6. Often losing things

7. Easily distracted by irrelevant information

8. Often forgetful in daily activities

9. Often not following through on instructions or tasks

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity:

1. Often fidgeting

2. Struggling to stay seated

3. Frequently feeling restless (in children, may be running about

or climbing where not appropriate)

4. Difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly

5. Often on the go

6. Talking excessively

7. Blurting out answers to questions

8. Difficulty waiting your turn

9. Often interrupting or intruding on others