Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been around for a long time, but it’s only recently that we’re really starting to understand how it works. The good news is that there are plenty of effective strategies to help kids manage their ADHD symptoms—and many of them don’t involve medication. So what’s the best way to tackle this issue? We’ll tell you!
How ADHD is diagnosed
ADHD is diagnosed by a doctor. ADHD is not something you can diagnose yourself, and it’s not caused by bad parenting or diet.
ADHD is a disorder that affects people of all ages, races, genders and social classes. While there are some genetic factors involved in developing ADHD (it runs in families), it’s not an inherited disease like sickle cell anemia or Huntington’s disease–which means you can’t “catch” ADHD from your mom or dad!
Are cell phones and social media causing ADHD?
There is no evidence that cell phone use is causing ADHD.
The fact that cell phones and social media have been around for a long time, but the number of people diagnosed with ADHD has only increased in recent years, suggests that there’s no connection between screen time and the disorder. Screen time can be beneficial for children with autism or other disorders that make it difficult to focus on tasks at hand–but there’s no evidence suggesting this will help those who have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Studies show that genetics play an important role in determining whether someone develops ADHD or not; if both parents have it themselves, there’s a 75% chance their child will too!
Experts weigh in on the question.
The truth is, we don’t know.
There’s no conclusive evidence linking cell phone use and social media to ADHD in children or adults. In fact, it’s unlikely that cell phones are causing the rise in diagnoses of ADHD (the majority of doctors say so). But some experts say there may be a link between heavy cell phone use and the disorder–and others think it’s possible but not probable.
It’s unlikely that your phone or social media use will lead to ADHD.
If you’re concerned that your phone or social media use might be causing ADHD, take a step back and relax. It’s unlikely that using these devices will lead to ADHD.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you need to see a medical professional who can give you an ADHD assessment and make an accurate diagnosis. If you think that your phone or social media use could be related to symptoms of ADHD, talk to your doctor about it–but keep in mind that there are many other factors besides phones and technology that could contribute to those symptoms (for example: stress at home or school).
ADHD is defined by three main characteristics: difficulty paying attention; hyperactivity; and impulsiveness (inattention does not always mean low energy). These characteristics may appear differently depending on the person being evaluated for them; some people may have more trouble with one aspect than another over time as well as throughout different situations (for example: school vs work).
Conclusion
It’s unlikely that your phone or social media use will lead to ADHD. However, it’s not impossible. If you’re concerned about your child’s behavior and think they may have ADHD, talk with a doctor or therapist who can help determine if the diagnosis and treatment options are right for them.