Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and the Brain

Outline:
I. Introduction a. Course description b. Checkpoint: questions c. Course overview d. Introduction and overview of ADHD i. Epidemiology of ADHD ii. Neurodevelopmental disorder iii. Worldwide prevalence iv. Gender differences v. Checkpoint: questions II. History and understanding of the disorder a. Primary symptoms i. Three subtypes b. Checkpoint: questions III. Causes of ADHD a. Heritability/genetics b. Environmental considerations c. Checkpoint: questions IV. ADHD and the brain a. Brain basics – anatomy i. Cortex: four lobes/regions ii. Checkpoint: questions iii. Hemispheres iv. Thalamus, caudate nucleus v. Checkpoint: questions vi. Limbic system vii. Checkpoint: questions b. Reticular Activating System (RAS) c. Structural and functional changes d. Checkpoint: questions e. Changes in brain activity i. Brain networks ii. Neurotransmitters iii. Under- or overactivity iv. Checkpoint: questions f. Nervous system i. Neurons, neurotransmitters, synaptic process ii. Checkpoint: questions V. Identification and treatment a. Identification i. Collaborative model ii. Quick review of diagnostic criteria iii. Additional common symptoms iv. Age of diagnosis v. Normal vs. abnormal behaviors vi. Stimulation vii. Emotional regulation viii. Gender differences ix. Checkpoint: questions b. Assessment process i. Reasons for referral ii. Understanding ADHD as a disability 1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 2. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) iii. Diagnosis 1. Diagnostic process a. Medical evaluation b. Comprehensive evaluation i. Specialist referral(s): neuropsychological, OT, SLP, educational, and ASD assessments c. Diagnosis in adulthood iv. Co-occurring conditions 1. Obesity 2. Sensory problems 3. Affective disorders 4. Substance use disorders 5. Traumatic brain injuries v. Checkpoint: questions c. Treatment i. Medication ii. Therapy

Cynthia McDaniel MSN RN, is a nurse and administrative consultant in long term care. She is the CEO of ElderWise Inc, a senior living consulting and education group. Cynthia has worked as a nurse consultant for the States of Oregon and Washington,  a geriatric care manager, a regional director of clinical operations for a senior living company, and an assistant professor at Oregon Health & Science University School of Nursing. Her research in assisted living focused on the characteristics of residents in assisted living communities and the role of the nurse in assisted living. Cynthia holds a Master's of Science in Nursing from Gonzaga University in nursing education. She is a Fellow of the Sigma Theta Tau/John A. Hartford Foundation Geriatric Nursing Leadership Academy.  Disclosure: Cynthia McDaniel, MSN, RN has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.

Catherine Zimmerman is a licensed independent clinical social worker who has a private practice providing counseling services to people of all ages and all stages of their lives. She is a freelance healthcare writer and speaker specializing in mental health, ethics, hospice and palliative care, gerontological topics, substance misuse, caregiving, stress and trauma.  Zimmerman received her master's degree from Portland State University thirty years ago and is certified in clinical social work-Gerontology. Zimmerman supervises and mentors therapists seeking licensure in Oregon or Washington states. She is the current President of the Washington chapter of the National Association of Social Workers and has provided public presentations on over twenty topics and has numerous published works. Disclosure: Catherine Zimmerman, LICSW, ACHP-SW, CSW-G has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.