Adult Adhd 101

Adult ADHD 101
By Jacqueline Sinfield
Important Note
The information contained in this book is not a substitute for any

recommendations or advice of your doctor or medical professional. They must
always be consulted before commencement of any new diet, exercise or lifestyle
change.
Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 2

· Table of Contents ·
Adults have ADHD?
How Many People have ADHD?
Is ADHD real?
What causes ADHD?
Should I get diagnosed?
Why do I feel so emotional now I have been diagnosed with ADHD?
What if the people in your life aren’t support of your diagnosis?
Comorbid conditions that exist with ADD
Should you tell people about having ADHD?
Treating ADHD
Do I have to take ADHD Medication?
What about ADHD and Dopamine?
Which professionals should you work with?
Are you Annoyed you have ADHD?
Congratulations!!!
About the Author

Have your recently been diagnosed with ADHD? Do you strongly suspect
you have ADHD, but haven’t been officially diagnosed yet? Are you feeling a
bit overwhelmed and don’t know where to start on your ADHD journey? If
you answered yes to any of those questions, this book is for you!
When you first find out you have ADHD, you might feel a huge sense of
relief because it explains why you are the way you are. That is quickly
followed by a ‘Now what?’ feeling. You want to make changes to your life
with this new piece of information, but it’s a little daunting to know what to
do first. You might have a lot of questions, or you might not know what
questions you need to ask.
You can end up feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, lonely and not know
where to begin. This book is the start! At times in my life when I have been
faced with a challenge, I always head to the bookstore for answers, which is
why I decided to write this book for you. To help you navigate the practical
and the emotional first steps on your ADHD journey.
‘Adult ADHD 101’ is based on my 10 years of experience working with

adults with ADHD. It answers all common questions, concerns and issues
that arise in those first few weeks and months after realizing you have
ADHD.
How to use this book
You don't have to read the book from cover to cover (I know that is a
challenge for ADHDers). Instead, look at the index and select the topics that
are interesting to you now. Each time you pick the book up, different
sections will be relevant. Use it as a guide or instruction manual to navigate
this new topic and phrase of your life as they arise.

Adults have ADHD?
The general public is often surprised to learn that Adults can have ADHD.
While most people are aware children have ADHD, they don’t realize it also
affects adults too. However, ADHD doesn’t disappear on your 18th
birthday! What does happen is, hyperactivity lessens with age, and adults
develop coping strategies; both consciously and unconsciously to help
them succeed in the world. It means that ADHD is less visible to the casual
observer.
Information on ADHD is growing all the time, but because relatively little
was known about it 30 years ago, many adults don’t realize they have it
until adulthood. A common way adults discover they have ADHD is that
their school-aged child is diagnosed with ADHD. The parent then realizes,
that the ADHD characteristics that their child is presenting with, are also
characteristics that they also have.
Another group of adults realize that they experience challenges in life and
they feel different from everyone else. After doing some research,
stumbling across an article or watching a show (ADD and Loving It and The
Dr. Oz Show are 2 of the more common shows) about ADHD symptoms,
they will promptly get a diagnosis.
Reactions to discovering you have ADHD vary dramatically, but usually fall
into 2 groups. Some adults feel very relieved finally, as they understand
why they are the way they are. Others feel angry that it took them so many
years of struggling with life before they realized what it was it. Usually
whatever the initial reaction, everyone wants the same thing, which is to
learn how they can best live their life.

Some adults have known since childhood that they have ADHD. However,
what they are now experiencing are different challenges. Learning skills on
how to do well in school, are now replaced with the need to learn how to
do well in a work environment, manage a household and take care of
finances etc.

How Many People have ADHD?
The official statistic is that 3-5% of the population in the United States have
ADHD. In reality, that number is probably higher because many people are
living with undiagnosed ADHD. Despite ADHD still being under diagnosed,
it can feel like more people than ever before have ADHD. There are a few
reasons why it seems like that.
1) This is due to an increased knowledge and awareness about ADHD, both

in the medical profession and the general public. The general public know
enough about ADHD to recognize they might have it; and the medical
profession know more, so are able to accurately diagnosis it. Both of which
are very good things.
2) Our lifestyle has changed dramatically in the last 100 years and jobs
require people to sit still for longer periods of time. This is a challenge that
forces a person to seek help, when in another job environment, it wouldn’t
have been an issue.
3) Babies born prematurely or with a low birth weight are at an increased

risk of having ADHD. Thanks to modern medicine, more and more of these
babies are surviving and thriving than in the past.
What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?
ADD and ADHD are often used interchangeably and it can get a little
confusing. However, it is really a question of terminology. Over the years as
more is learned about ADHD (the current official term), the name has
changed to reflect the most recent findings.

In 1980, ADD was the term used to describe someone who had Attention
Deficit Disorder and ADHD was the term used to describe a person who
has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Prior to 1980, ADHD was of
course present but was called a wide range of things, most of which would
be considered highly insulting if they were used today.
Then in 1987, ADHD became official term for anyone who was diagnosed
with what was previously ADD and ADHD. It was at this time that the
American Psychiatric Association stated that ADHD was a medical diagnosis
(rather than psychological) that could cause behavioural issues.
In the recently updated, 2013 publication of Diagnostic and Statistical

Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V), The National Institute of Mental
Health, (or NIMH) stated that the definition of ADHD is a “Disruptive
Behaviour Disorder”, where high levels of inattention, hyperactivity or a
combination are constantly present in an individual.
3 Types ADHD have been identified, which are:
ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive Type: Is characterized by mainly

inattention, and so, people have problems focusing, completing tasks, are
easily distracted and seem forgetful, disorganized and careless.
ADHD-Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Is characterized

mainly by hyperactivity and impulsivity. Paying attention is not a major
problem. However, they seem to act and speak before thinking, have lots of
energy and always on the go.
ADHD-Combined Type: In this instance, characteristics on both inattentive

and hyperactive/impulsivity are present.

Even though ADHD is the official title, ADD and ADHD are the same thing,
confusion continues because many people use ADD and ADHD
interchangeably (including me). Medical journals regularly still use ADD and
people who were diagnosed in the early to mid-1980′s with ADD, identify
strongly with that term, not ADHD.

Is ADHD real?
There is a lot of skepticism about ADHD (usually among those that don’t
have it); that it is being over-diagnosed or that it’s a modern illness that
drug companies have created.
The truth is that there is historical evidence of what we now refer to as

ADHD as far back as 93 BC. The Greek physician and scientist, Hippocrates,
described a condition featuring ‘quickened responses to sensory
experience, but also less tenaciousness because the soul moves on quickly
to the next impression’.
In his book, An Inquiry into the Nature and Origin of Mental Derangement,
which he wrote in 1798, Sir Alexander Crichton refers to hyperactivity as
“mental restlessness”.
In 1902, the British doctor (whose name is ironically) Dr. Still, made
reference to cases of impulsiveness.

What causes ADHD?
The evidence that has been gathered shows that genetic, biological, and
environmental factors all play a role in ADD.
Genetic studies found that there is a strong genetic component to ADD. For
example, if one member of the family has ADD, there is a high probability
at least one other member also has it.
It is thought that genes DAT1 (dopamine transporter) and DRD4 (dopamine
receptor) are involved. However, a child can inherit ADHD genes and not
have ADHD. This is because a combination of both genes and the
environment determines if the ADHD genes are activated.
The biological factors include differences in the ADHD brain compared to

the non-ADHD brain.
Anatomical differences: differences in the size and function of the corpus
callosum which connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres and
mediates communication between the two.
Also, irregularities are found in the basal ganglia (which are associated with
motor control, cognition and learning).
Chemical differences:
ADHD is associated with impaired functioning of certain neurotransmitters,
particularly dopamine and norepinephrine.
Functional differences:
Brain functioning differences in people with ADHD have been found in the
frontal lobes, limbic system and parietal lobe.

Environmental factors also play a part. These non-genetic factors include
anything that will affect brain development from prenatal to childhood. For
example, low birth weight, brain injury, prenatal contact with alcohol, lack
of oxygen at birth, etc. The biggest environmental factor influencing the
expression of ADHD is maternal smoking.
Researchers have also been able to identify that sugar, food additives and
allergies do NOT cause ADD. Nor is ADD caused by parenting style or a
busy life style.
What are the Characteristics of Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive

ADHD?
It’s one thing to know in theory that you have ADHD, but when people see
this list of characteristics, they often have many “light bulb” moments
because they didn’t realize all the subtle ways ADHD shows up in them.
Hyperactivity
1) Always in motion. Even when sitting, you are fidgeting with your hands or
your feet are tapping
2) Have a restless / aggravated feeling inside (sometimes to the point of

pain) when a social situation requires ‘stillness’ e.g. long conversations,
lectures, dinner, etc.
3) Multi-task (do many things at once) but not necessarily effectively

4) Feel bored a lot of the time
5) Talks a lot! …more than anyone else you know
6) Your mind is always racing and you have millions of thoughts
7) Crave excitement
8) Take risks in order to relieve boredom and feel alive
9) Drive MUCH faster than the speed limit, particularly on highways
Impulsivity
10) Experience a low level of self-control
11) Feel impatient when dealing with ‘slow’ people
12) Answer a person before they have finished speaking
13) Have a reputation for being rude, or not interested in other people
14) Say things without thinking and can offend people
15) Difficulty understanding others’ personal boundaries (physical or

emotional)

16) Unlikely to finish an entire book
17) Act spontaneously. This can put yourself and others in physical danger
18) Prone to addictions

What are the Characteristics of Predominantly Inattentive ADHD?
Here are 15 characteristics you could be experiencing if you have

inattentive ADHD:
1) Hard for you to focus, yet you can be physically still
2) Don’t appear to listen to others during conversations
3) Those close to you complain you forget things they shared with you
4) Disorganized in your physical environment
5) Find it hard to stay on task from beginning to end, and even harder if the
task is boring
6) Make careless errors despite your best intentions
7) Detailed tasks, for example taxes, are exceptionally challenging and

stressful
8) You find it hard to follow verbal or written instructions
9) Often late for or miss appointments
10) Lose important items often, like: keys, wallets and passports
11) People would describe you as a day dreamer
12) Find it hard to block out noise

13)

13) Experience fatigue
14) You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘Could try harder” a lot a school (even
if you were trying)
15) Prone to Procrastination
Combined Type
Remember that some people have the combined type and experience both
hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive ADHD.

Should I get diagnosed?
Getting an ADHD diagnosis is incredibly empowering at whatever your age.

It explains why you are the way you are and why certain aspects of life are
more challenging for you than other people. Armed with this knowledge
about yourself, you can start to make changes in your life and your
confidence and self-esteem will flourish. It would be such a shame not to
have this self-awareness.
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
The interesting and sometimes confusing thing about ADHD is that

everyone experiences ADHD characteristics at times particularly when they
are stressed or feeling overwhelmed. Procrastination, distraction, arriving
late, disorganisation, etc. are things we all experience at times in our lives.
But that doesn’t mean everyone has ADHD.
For a person with ADHD, it’s the amount of these traits that are present and
the extent that they negatively affect their life.
ADHD is usually diagnosed by a psychologist or psychiatrist that specializes

in ADHD. The official definition of ADHD is described as a “Disruptive
Behavior Disorder”, where high levels of inattention, hyperactivity or a
combination are constantly present in an individual. Adult ADHD symptoms
are different to that of a child with ADHD. However, please don’t be scared;
the official term sounds MUCH worse than reality.
Being diagnosed with ADHD is very different than getting another type of
diagnosis. There isn’t a blood test that you can take, which gets tested in a
lab and 24 hours later, your results come back positive or negative.

Getting your ADD diagnosed is more lengthy and complex. However, it is
worth the time and effort. When you know exactly what you are dealing
with, you can treat it properly and misdiagnosis can be avoided; which can
save years of unnecessary problems.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

(DSM IV), the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis to be made is...
- Characteristics have been present for 6 months or more
- The symptoms were present before you were 7 years old
- The traits affect your life in 2 or more settings (e.g. home and work)
- And finally, the symptoms aren’t due to another condition, such as bipolar
disorder, sleep disorder or anxiety, etc.
To find this out, the clinician doing the testing becomes a bit of a detective,
and gathers as much information about you as they can. They then piece it
all together to create a picture of your childhood, your health your family’s
health history, your current life and challenges.
They get this information primarily from you, but they also might ask your
family members, (with your permission) to fill out questionnaires about
you. This helps to get a broader picture as other people such as, parents
and siblings can remember items you might have forgotten. The clinician is
trying to put together a picture of your life.
They are also trying to discover how you operate in different areas. For
example, home and work and school. If you have school report cards, they

are very helpful, as are work evaluations. Your partner might be invited to
go for an interview or fill out a questionnaire. The clinician will also want to
rule out conditions that look like ADD; for example, bipolar or sleep
problems.
The diagnosis is often done over a couple of visits, so that you feel fresh
and alert for the appointments and to give you time to get the
questionnaires completed.
Each professional uses slightly different methods; however, many also test
your working memory, because how that works relates to how severe your
ADD is. Don’t worry about the test; just do your best. Remember, the more
information the doctor has the more accurate your diagnosis will be.
At the end of the testing, you will know if you have ADHD.

Why do I feel so emotional now I have been diagnosed
with ADHD?
When you first get the official news that you have ADHD, you can be
flooded with different emotions: Happy, sad, angry and depressed. Don’t
worry, this is normal.
I have adapted the ’5 Stages of Grief’ (a model identified by Elisabeth

Kübler-Ross, M.D.) to describe the emotional journey that adults with ADHD
go through when they are first diagnosed with ADHD.
Everyone processes their ADHD diagnosis slightly different. Some people
spend longer in one stage than another. Some whizz through all the stages
while for others the processing takes longer. But, no one neatly goes
through one stage to the next; there is a lot of jumping around.
Here are the 5 stages:
1) Euphoria. It might last minutes, or days. It comes from you finding out
that there is an explanation for why you are the way you are; that you
aren’t crazy and there is a name for your struggles.
2) Disbelieve. Finding out you have ADHD gives you a greater

understanding of yourself. But, it also shakes your self-identity to core. You
have to rebuild your sense of self with this new knowledge. You might also
question if the person who tested you got it right.
3) Anger. The anger can be at yourself, at others in your life or both. Why
didn’t I find this out sooner? Why didn’t the people who love me notice this
sooner?

4) Depression. A sense of loss of what could have been. You might find
yourself thinking that your life would have been easier, happier, more
successful, richer, etc., if you had known this years ago.
5) Acceptance and hope. This is where you embrace the new part of you.
You realize that the gifts you have are related to ADHD. That without ADHD,
you wouldn’t be the person you are today.
I don’t have ADHD; however, I was 28 years old when I found out I had
severe dyslexia. This is how the stages played out in my life: During the first
24 hours, I was (1) exceptionally happy almost ‘high’. I had always thought
my struggles were because I wasn’t clever, then I found out this wasn’t the
case. The next emotions were (2) disbelieve and (3) anger. The detailed
report by the psychologist didn’t match who I thought I was. I was really
angry it had taken me 28 years to find this out. The anger disappeared, and
was replaced with (4) depression. The disbelief continued. All the awful
moments for school days kept replaying in my head. Then came (5)
acceptance; finally, I realised that I couldn’t waste any more of my life. I
made a decision not to struggle any more. I made changes in my life to
work with my strengths (which is what I encourage everyone with ADHD to
do too). I made peace with every part of who I was.
ADHD isn’t life threatening. But, it does come with a wide range of
emotions. Rather than try to suppress them and pretend they aren’t there,
acknowledge each emotion when it appears. Not only is this healthy, but it
helps the emotion to pass quicker.

Don’t judge yourself or your emotions. You are unique; so are your
emotions. There is no right or wrong way to feel. If you are feeling it, accept
that it’s important for you to be feeling that emotion at this time.
Be extra kind and gentle with yourself during this time.

What if the people in your life aren’t support of your
diagnosis?
As well as looking after your own emotions when you first find out you
have ADHD, you maybe find that you have to manage the people in your
life too.
Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, is a life changing event. Like all life
changing events, you want to share the experience and get support from
your family and friends. So it can come as a shock to discover that your
nearest and dearest might not be very supportive.
Even though they love you, they say things like:

“You managed this long without knowing, why do you want to know now?”
“I don’t believe ADHD exists.”
“Well, it doesn’t change your day-to-day reality.”
“Of course, that was going to be the result; that is how those people make a
living.”
These comments feel rude and hurtful. You might wonder why being
diagnosed would upset them; when they already know all about your
behaviors and ADHD characteristics. All that has changed is the knowledge
that those behaviours fall under the ADHD umbrella.
For you, getting a diagnosis helps you to understand why you are the way
you are. For them, it triggers some emotions. Here are 5 common reasons
why the people in your life aren’t supportive of your ADHD Diagnosis:

Your Parents
1) Parents feel guilty that they didn’t notice you had ADHD as you were
growing up; even though so much less was known about ADHD twenty plus
years ago. However, the guilt is still there.
2) They love you so much they don’t want to think of their child as anything,
but perfect.
Partner (wife, husband, etc.)
3) They don’t want things to change. Even though living with your
undiagnosed ADHD wasn’t always easy, they know how to do that. Change,
even good change can be threatening. They might worry you won’t need
them so much in the future and stop loving them.
4) They think you will use ADHD as an excuse to get out of your
responsibilities and they will have to do more.
Everyone, including parents, partner and friends
5) Scared of ADHD medication. There is lots of negative press about ADHD

meds and some people get very scared that bad things will happen to their
loved ones if they take it.

While it is upsetting that the people you love can’t be there for you during
this new stage of your life, it does help to know that you aren’t on your
own. This is a common reaction. However, don’t let it stop you from getting
support. There are tons of ways to connect with others and learn about
ADHD.
Here are 10 suggestions:
1) Find a support group in your area

2) Join an ADHD Meet-Up group
3) Attend conferences; my favourite is CHADD’s Annual International
Conference
4) Read or listen to books on ADHD
5) Listen / Download ADHD podcasts
6) Join online ADHD forums
7) Join ADHD Facebook groups
8) Hire an ADHD Coach
9) Work with a therapist who knows about ADHD
10) Find ADHD blogs and leave comments under posts you enjoy. This is a
great way to connect with and share tips with other ADHD readers
Visit http://untappedbrilliance.com. It’s a great place to kick start getting the

support you need.

Comorbid conditions that exist with ADD
I don’t know about you, but I find the term ‘Comorbid’ a grim term. I am
sure it would have been possible to come up with a more cheery
description of an ‘individual that has more than one medical condition that
exists both independently and at the same time.’
However, regardless of the term, if you have Adult ADHD, there is a 75%
chance that you have another condition and that condition could also affect
your attention. Below is a list of the most common conditions that exist
with ADD.
Here are the other conditions:

1) Depression
Struggling with unmanaged ADD is difficult so it’s not surprising as many as
16-30% of adults with ADD experience a major depression and 20-37% mild
depression.
2) Anxiety
Statistics show that 50% of adults with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder.
An anxiety disorder could be Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD),
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Social phobia or
specific phobias, such as fear of flying or fear of spiders, etc.
3) Bipolar Disorder
Around 20% of adults with ADD also have Bipolar disorder. It can mimic
symptoms of ADD and like ADD; it is heredity.

4) Sleep difficulties
People with ADD find it hard to fall asleep because their mind is
overworking. They also find it hard to wake up in the morning and it takes
them a while to ‘get going’. While insomnia is the most well-known sleeping
difficulty, the other common ones for ADHD adults are Teeth Grinding,
Sleep Apnea and Restless Leg Syndrome.
5) Learning Disabilities
People with ADHD have an increased likelihood of also having a learning
disability.
6) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Dr. Hallowell believes that most people with ADD have a mild form of PTSD
because if left unmanaged, ADHD can mean repeated traumas, humiliation,
rejection and failures.
Remember, if you do have one or more of these conditions along with
ADHD, there is good news. When you start to treat and manage ADHD,
issues with these conditions very often improve greatly too.
This list isn’t to panic you! Instead, it’s to keep you informed and
knowledgeable about all aspects of ADHD.

Should you tell people about having ADHD?
When you first discover you have ADHD, you might be tempted to shout
the news from the rooftops because you are thrilled to know this new piece
of information about yourself. It explains why you are the way you are and
why ‘simple’ things that other people find easy, are difficult for you. You
might feel relief, excitement and want other people to hear the good news.
But before you tell anyone, please proceed with caution.
Even though we know more about ADHD than ever before, there are still a
lot of misperceptions, negativity, and prejudice again ADHD. People have
been denied insurance, promotion and faced prejudice at colleges or
universities because they shared their diagnosis. None of these things are
politically correct and can be fought, but that takes a lot of time and
strength to do.
Even well-meaning people in your life, might just see the label ‘ADHD’
rather than the whole of you including your unique qualities and strengths.
Of course, tell your nearest and dearest, but beyond them, carefully
consider who else you share your news with.
However, what you can do with everyone in your life is to address your
symptoms. Develop a really good understanding of how ADHD affects you
and then think of ways that will support you to perform at your best.
For example, if you know your memory for details is poor and a work
colleague asks you something as you are rushing out, you could say,
“Would you mind emailing me that request? My mind is so full right now
and I really don’t forget it.”

If it’s difficult for you to pay attention in meetings, take notes, and explain
to the people there you are doing that because it’s an important topic and
you want to have it in writing.
If early morning appointments are tough for you because it takes a few
hours to ‘come round’, explain to people that you are at your mental peak
after 11am and would prefer to schedule things then.
No one will argue with any of these requests because they are things we
can all identify with. They make the person feel respected, while all the time
honoring your ADHD, so that you can perform your best.
1) Think of 5 challenges you face because of your ADHD.
2) Brainstorm solutions.
3) Practice saying the solutions out loud; so when you are in a real life
situation, it will roll off your tongue.

Treating ADHD
ADHD can’t be cured, but it can be successfully managed. You can take
charge of managing your ADHD using this multi-prong process (which
sounds more complex than it actually is).
The 4 prongs are:

- Medical treatment
- Natural treatment
- Life skills
- Psychological well-being
Medical treatment
This could mean ADHD medications; if they are something you have chosen
to take. It also means treating other conditions that you might have: from
thyroid problems, depression to sleeping disorders. Not only does this help
you live a long and healthy life, it also helps your ADHD. Even conditions
that seem completely unrelated, can negatively affect your ADHD.
Natural treatment
Treating your ADHD naturally includes all the steps in my book Untapped
Brilliance, How To Reach Your Full Potential As An Adult With ADHD , such as
taking an Omega 3 supplement, eat a healthy ADHD diet, meditation, daily
exercise and getting a good night’s sleep.

Life skills
You have heard the phrase, ‘Pills don’t teach skills’? No matter how
successfully you are at implementing the first 2 prongs, now it’s time to
develop life skills such as time management and organizing skills. When
learning these skills, take baby steps; you can’t change a lifetime of habits
overnight.
Traditional strategies to these problems don’t always work for ADHDers, so

don’t feel bad if advice from well-meaning Non-ADDers don’t work. Instead,
learn from ADHD experts and notice what works for you and continue to
do that.
Psychological well-being
This is paramount to success. For example, self-esteem is often lower in
people with ADHD than their non-ADHD peers, through years of trying to
conform to a world whose brains work differently to yours. When you are
in a good head space, it’s easier to implement the actions involved in the
other prongs. There is no shame in reaching out for help from a good
psychologist.

Do I have to take ADHD Medication?
One of the most common reasons I hear of why someone doesn’t want to
get their ADHD diagnosed is because they don’t want to take prescription
medications. Good news! You don’t have too! There is no rule that states
when you have ADHD diagnosed, you automatically have to take
medication. You get to choose. You are in control. Taking medication is just
one option in the treatment of ADHD, but it isn’t mandatory!
Many of the big ADHD experts are pro medication, as they say it 'evens the
playing field' and puts you on a level footing with rest of the population. In
my coaching practice, only 50% of my clients take ADD meds. Some don't
enjoy the way they feel when they are on them, some experience side
effects, and some just don't want to put chemicals into their bodies.
Like all things, it’s good to be informed. So here is a brief description of the
different ADHD medications.
It can be divided into 2 categories: Stimulant and non-stimulant.
As stimulant medications are the most effective in treating ADHD (they

work for approximately 75% of adults), they are the most prescribed
medication and the most studied. It might sound counter intuitive for a
person who has ADHD to take a stimulant; however, these medications
work by blocking dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake. This, in turn,
means hyperactivity and impulsiveness are reduced while attention and the
executive functioning of the brain are increased.

The two main types of stimulant medications are:
- Amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine)
- Methylphenidate (such as Ritalin and Concerta)
Both are available in short and long acting formulas and different
strengths.
Some of the side effects are loss of appetite, insomnia, and an increase in
heart rate or blood pressure. People are also concerned about becoming
addicted to their medication. There is a slight risk; particularly if you aren’t
following the prescription recommendations and taking more than
prescribed. The risk is a little higher with methamphetamine than
amphetamines or if you have a history of substance abuse.
The other medication option is non-stimulant medication.

Non-stimulant medication isn’t as controversial as people can’t abuse them.
Strattera selectively blocks the norepinephrine reuptake pump, which in
turn, means there is more dopamine in neurons. What this means for the
ADHD adult is, increased attention and less hyperactivity and
impulsiveness. Strattera needs to be taken for at least 4 weeks before
benefits can be noticed. This is different to the almost immediate effect
that stimulant medications have, but its advantage is that, it is present in
the blood stream 24/7 and doesn’t wear off as the stimulant meds do.
Side effects can include loss of appetite, insomnia, dry mouth and
dizziness. There are also some concerns about potential liver toxicity.
If you are considering taking ADHD medication, work closely with your
doctor. Notice and report to your doctor of how your medication is helping
you and also any side-effects you may experience.

What about ADHD and Dopamine?
Did you know that the brain of a person with ADHD doesn’t produce as
much dopamine as someone without ADHD? This shortage affects the
anterior frontal cortex part of the brain and impacts attention and focus
and impulsivity, mood, and motivation… the core symptoms of ADHD.
The way ADHD medications work is by positively affecting dopamine levels.

For example, Ritalin and Adderall work by blocking dopamine and
norepinephrine reuptake, so the dopamine that is produced stays in the
synapse for longer.
When your brain doesn’t have enough dopamine, it craves it. You might
find yourself driven to do activities that aren’t particularly healthy: like
overeat on carbs, smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, drive fast, have
extramarital affairs, over spend or take street drugs.
However, there are things you can do to increase the levels of dopamine
in your brain in a healthy and natural way... and so help your ADHD.
1) Exercise
When you exercise, your brain produces more dopamine. Find an exercise
you love and do it every day.
2) Take Omega 3
Omega 3 increases your levels of dopamine. Take a supplement as well as
including more Omega 3 rich foods in your diet.
3) Meditate
When you meditate, you also increase your dopamine levels.

4) Vitamin C
Include lots of Vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C is very helpful in ensuring
the dopamine synapses are working well.
5) Eat specific foods

Eat foods that raise dopamine levels which contain the amino acid
phenylalanine. Once eaten, the body converts it to tyrosine, and then
tyrosine manufactures dopamine. Include beef, pork, lamb, poultry, fish,
nuts and seeds in your diet, as these are all good sources of phenylalanine.
6) Take Iron and Vitamin B6

Your body needs iron and vitamin B6 to convert food from phenylalanine
to dopamine. So get your iron levels tested by your doctor. If they are low,
ask about taking a supplement. In one study, researchers found that 84%
of the children with ADHD had an iron deficiency, so it’s worth finding out.
7) Sleep
When you sleep, you don’t use much dopamine, which means your
dopamine levels increase overnight ready for the new day.
8) Reduce stress
Stress depletes dopamine.

Which professionals should you work with?
When you have ADHD, it is a good idea to have a team of professionals

behind you. Each professional has their area of expertise and can help you
manage your ADHD.
Here is a brief guide of who to have on your team:
Doctor
If you decide to take ADHD meds, your medical doctor will prescribe and
monitor you. Your family doctor might do this, or if you aren’t comfortable
with it, see a psychiatrist. Once you are on the right meds and dosage, you
will probably visit your doctor every 3 months to get a repeat prescription.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist will be on your team if you have other conditions in addition
to ADHD, such as bipolar or if your family doctor isn’t comfortable
prescribing ADHD meds. Some people feel there is a stigma attached to
seeing psychiatrist, but there is no shame to getting the right help from the
right person.
Psychologist
Working with a psychologist or therapist helps you process issues from
your past, help change your beliefs, thought patterns and increase your
self-esteem. They can also help with issues such as anger, anxiety and
addictions.

ADHD Coach
Coaches are great for the practical stuff. They can help with accountability,
so you follow through with tasks, and they work with you to combat
procrastination, develop time management skills, organization skills, self-
esteem, implement habits into your life and much, much more.
If you live in the middle of nowhere, you might be wondering how to find
these ADHD experts. That is where ‘the source of all knowledge’ aka the
internet comes in!
You can find great psychologists on www.psychologytoday.com either in

your area or one that works via Skype.
Coaches, including me, work with clients in-person or using Skype or by

phone, so location doesn’t matter. http://untappedbrilliance.com/adhd-
coaching
Doctors are slightly more challenging…but not impossible. One option

would be to travel to see a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD. When you
have your prescription, your family doctor will usually be happy to continue
write repeat prescriptions.
Good Luck creating your team!

Are you Annoyed you have ADHD?
Are you annoyed you have ADHD? Do you wonder, “Why me?” Some people
are frustrated that they have to deal with ADHD annoyances. There are
plenty of people who are happy to know that they have ADHD because it
explains why they are the way they are, but if you are in the frustrated
camp, ADHD feels like a lifelong curse.
Something I have found helpful with clients who feel like this is to reframe
how you view ADHD: from something that is annoying and spoiling your
life, to a challenge that will help you grow and be the catalyst to making
changes you wouldn’t have otherwise.
When Michael J. Fox learned that he had Parkinson’s disease, he said it was
the best thing that happened to him. Parkinson’s societies and charities
were outraged. They felt he was sending the wrong message to the world,
and people wouldn’t understand the debilitating effects of the disease.
Even though he was experiencing the same physical effects as other
sufferers, Michael was speaking about his personal internal experiences.
Prior to being diagnosed, he was living a life that wasn’t in line with who he
was. He was abusing alcohol and there was distance in his marriage.
Parkinson’s gave him the chance to change how he was living his life. He
and his wife became close again; he gave up alcohol, he began appreciating
his life, his career and the opportunity to spread public awareness and to
help find a cure.
We hear similar messages from people who experience an array of

challenges, from health issues to life changes such as an unexpected
divorce. A challenge forces us to grow in ways we never would have
otherwise.

You can do this with ADHD too. For example, you could see ADHD as:
1) The vehicle that propelled you to live a life that is healthier; that got you
to be physically active and knowledgeable about nutrition and got you to
experiment with alternative practices like meditation and hypnosis.
2) The catalyst that made you get to know yourself really well and learn
about what makes you happy, what you love, what irritates you, what
makes your ADHD symptoms worse, what makes them better, what
motivates and drives you, and what goals you want to achieve in your life.
3) The thing that made you learn about finances and how to de-clutter, etc.
In the US, two-thirds of adults are overweight or obese, and the average
person watches 6 hours of TV a day and is $12000 in debt. If you are
treating and managing your ADHD, you are already ahead of the average.
This week, take stock of your life and write down a list of all the things you
have done for the better because you have ADHD.

Congratulations!!!
You are now armed with all the information you need to navigate the early
stages of understanding ADHD. I hope you feel more knowledgeable,
empowered and comforted. Remember to take action on the things you
have read. Whether that is: to book an appointment with your doctor, find
resources in your area, or research a topic that was in Adult ADHD 101 in
greater depth.
If you are wondering what’s next... I have a few recommendations!
1) Keep in touch!
I love connecting with my readers, whether it’s to say hi or ask a question,
shoot me an email at: Jacqueline@UntappedBrilliance.com
2) Visit UntappedBrilliance.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter. Every

Friday, I send out tips and tricks to help you stay on top of your ADHD. It
also acts as a reminder to address your ADHD. Many people have said,
without that weekly reminder, managing their ADHD would fall to the
bottom of their to-do list.
3) Pick up a copy of Untapped Brilliance, How to Reach Your Full potential as

an Adult with ADHD. It covers the eleven simple steps that help adults with
ADHD reach their full potential. These highly effective, non-pharmaceutical
ways help to minimize your unwanted ADHD symptoms, so you can excel.
“Untapped Brilliance is brilliant! Full of hope and practical wisdom, this book
is a treasure.” - Edward, M. Hallowell, MD Author of Driven to Distraction

· Did You Enjoy this book? ·
Did you enjoy Adult ADHD 101? Would you write short review on the
Amazon website? Just 1 or 2 lines help spread the word and help other
ADDers.

About the Author
Jacqueline Sinfield has been working in the health care field for nearly 20
years. She trained and worked as a nurse in England, before moving to
Montreal, Canada where she set up her own practice as an ADHD coach.
As well as being a registered nurse, Jacqueline is a qualified counsellor, has

a degree in psychology (Hons) from London, England and is a graduate of
Coach University. Her expertise has been featured in the media, including
CJAD radio and the Montreal Gazette.
She has helped hundreds of adults with ADHD and is also the author of
Untapped Brilliance: How to Reach Your Full Potential As an Adult with
Attention Deficit Disorder, How to Sleep Well when you have ADHD and
How to Get Great Grades When You Have ADHD.
Visit the author’s website at www.untappedbrilliance.com

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Adult ADHD 101

The information contained in this book is not a substitute for any

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 2

Adults have ADHD?

How Many People have ADHD?

What causes ADHD?

Should I get diagnosed?

Why do I feel so emotional now I have been diagnosed with ADHD?

What if the people in your life aren’t support of your diagnosis?

Comorbid conditions that exist with ADD

Should you tell people about having ADHD?

Do I have to take ADHD Medication?

What about ADHD and Dopamine?

Which professionals should you work with?

Are you Annoyed you have ADHD?

About the Author

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 3

‘Adult ADHD 101’ is based on my 10 years of experience working with

How to use this book

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 4

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 5

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 6

1) This is due to an increased knowledge and awareness about ADHD, both

3) Babies born prematurely or with a low birth weight are at an increased

What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 7

In the recently updated, 2013 publication of Diagnostic and Statistical

ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive Type: Is characterized by mainly

ADHD-Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Is characterized

ADHD-Combined Type: In this instance, characteristics on both inattentive

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 8

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 9

The truth is that there is historical evidence of what we now refer to as

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 10

The biological factors include differences in the ADHD brain compared to

Copyright © 2013 Jacqueline Sinfield Page 11

What are the Characteristics of Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive

2) Have a restless / aggravated feeling inside (sometimes to the point of

3) Multi-task (do many things at once) but not necessarily effectively

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5) Talks a lot! …more than anyone else you know

6) Your mind is always racing and you have millions of thoughts

8) Take risks in order to relieve boredom and feel alive

9) Drive MUCH faster than the speed limit, particularly on highways

11) Feel impatient when dealing with ‘slow’ people

12) Answer a person before they have finished speaking

14) Say things without thinking and can offend people

15) Difficulty understanding others’ personal boundaries (physical or

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18) Prone to addictions

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Here are 15 characteristics you could be experiencing if you have

1) Hard for you to focus, yet you can be physically still

2) Don’t appear to listen to others during conversations

4) Disorganized in your physical environment

6) Make careless errors despite your best intentions

7) Detailed tasks, for example taxes, are exceptionally challenging and

8) You find it hard to follow verbal or written instructions

9) Often late for or miss appointments

11) People would describe you as a day dreamer

12) Find it hard to block out noise

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15) Prone to Procrastination

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