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Impulse Control

Oct 26, 2017 | 9:26 AM

Living with ADHD

Impulse Control

 

The Prince Albert branch of the Learning Disabilities Association of Saskatchewan (LDAS-PA) will bring forward a series of articles about living with ADHD for children and adults. The purpose of the series is to assist those who live with this disorder, and their families, to live better with this frustrating disability. ADHD is marked most often by chronic inattention, impulsivity and frequent hyperactivity coupled with inconsistent performance of tasks and behaviours. The disorder is most frequently observed and diagnosed in children and for approximately two-thirds of those children, symptoms continue into adulthood. The most common treatment is often the ongoing use of a variety of medications to manage symptoms. There is no cure.

The most effective management of this disorder is a multi-faceted approach combining several approaches. The first foundation of control is the careful management of nutrition, exercise, sleep and medication. A second foundation is becoming knowledgeable about the strengths weaknesses, and behavior patterns associated with the disorder as it affects the individual.  A final foundational support is learning skills and strategies to assist the individual to work their ADHD moments and to develop their own advocacy skills.

Dr Ari Luckman has written a book for those affected by Attention Deficit called More Attention Less Deficit in which he emphasizes finding ways of bringing more attention to executive functioning behaviors, by learning strategies and skills to assist the individual in enhancing their success. Executive functioning skills are the knowledge skills and behavior skills everyone uses to act within their world.

One of the executive functioning skills often seen exhibited by people with ADHD is an exaggerated lack of impulse control. This is a function where one learns to think or pause before acting. Impulse buying, blurting out comments, and acting without thinking of consequences may be some of the behaviors shown. The good news is that there are strategies and skills that can be learned to assist with these difficulties.

Strategies and skills must be learned, practiced, and applied. And it takes time! Learning theory says that it takes about 21 days of practice to break a habit or learn a new one, just like learning to skate, riding a bike or throwing a ball. As in sports, coaching is available for children and adults to develop and apply strategies and skills to their life situation.

One strategy that can be used in many situations is to make a list. Just like grocery shopping, you only buy the goods on your list and resist the impulse to buy those bright shiny things that catch your eye that are not on the list. There are many situations in life where one can use the list to keep on track, stay focused and work to the end. Not only does one finish but steps are not forgotten.

If you or a family member has ADHD, you are welcome to attend the ADHD Support Group that meets every second Wed at 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm. at the LDAS Centre at 1101 Central Ave. You can pre-register by phoning 306-922-1071. You can also set up a meeting with LDAS to discuss ADHD coaching to meet your specific needs.