My partner was recently diagnosed with Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I asked him if any of his family members also had it, which then caused him to become concerned that he would pass it on to our kids. He didn’t realize there was a genetic link to ADHD. He struggled quite a bit in school growing up at a time when an understanding of neurodivergent kids was not common. After some reassurance that ADHD is a much more well-understood public health concern these days, he isn’t so worried about it. Still, it did inspire this article, as I’m sure with the uptick in adult ADHD diagnoses, many potential parents would want to know the likelihood of a genetic link to ADHD causing the condition in their children.
So, what really causes ADHD? Is there a genetic link to ADHD that you’re born with and is passed down in families? Could it be shaped by culture, environment, or even diet? Experts still don’t know exactly what causes it. Some researchers think it might be linked to one or more genes involved in the production of dopamine, a chemical that plays a role in focus and attention. However, there are many myths and misunderstandings about ADHD, and there is still a lot we don’t know for sure.
What we do know is that ADHD isn’t caused by things like bad parenting, eating too much sugar, or playing video games; however, studies also show a genetic risk factor – kids with ADHD are four times more likely to have a parent who also has the condition.
Is ADHD inherited?
Research shows that ADHD is often, but not always, inherited. This means it can be passed down from parents to their kids. Studies show that children of parents of whom either one or both have ADHD are much more likely to develop full or partial ADHD than children of parents neither of whom have been diagnosed with this condition. They also face a higher risk of child and adolescent mental health issues, learning problems, social struggles, and challenges in school.
Published studies such as the one by Professor Russel Barkley of the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center do show a clear genetic link between family members with ADHD. Other scientists are studying which specific genes might contribute to a higher risk of ADHD, focusing on several genes connected to dopamine. The research has even picked up some evidence of possible candidate genes that may, individually or in combination, be the likely causes.
Unfortunately, there is no genetic test to determine whether a person has ADHD or not. Having a definitive diagnostic tool would allow treatment to begin earlier and could even help with family planning. Knowing more about the disorder’s biochemistry could also assist drug companies in searching for better medications.
What parts of the brain are affected by ADHD?
ADHD affects how the brain develops and works. Research shows that children with ADHD have brains that mature more slowly than those without the condition. Brain scans, like fMRI, have found differences in certain areas of the brain that are linked to ADHD symptoms. For example, parts of the brain like the pre-frontal cortex, striatum, basal ganglia, and cerebellum are usually about 5% smaller in kids with ADHD.
How does ADHD impact the brain?
ADHD affects the brain’s chemistry in unique ways. ADHD is linked to low levels of dopamine. Both kids and adults with ADHD often have less dopamine than usual, which plays a significant role in how their brains work.
ADHD affects how certain parts of the brain work by disrupting the activity of neurotransmitters such as dopamine in four key areas:
- The frontal cortex helps with focus, organization, and decision-making. Low dopamine here can lead to trouble paying attention, staying organized, or managing tasks.
- The limbic system found deeper in the brain, the area that controls emotions. A lack of dopamine can cause restlessness, mood swings, or difficulty staying focused.
- Basal ganglia help different parts of the brain communicate with each other. With insufficient dopamine, information can get “scrambled,” leading to impulsivity or inattention.
- The reticular activating system (RAS) is like a messenger hub for signals going in and out of the brain. When dopamine levels are low, it can cause hyperactivity, impulsiveness, or trouble focusing.
These areas work together, so when one isn’t functioning properly, it can affect the others.
Do toxins and pollution contribute to ADHD?
Research suggests that exposure to certain chemicals found in everyday items like food, cleaning products, carpets, and personal-care items might play a role in conditions like ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities.
In 2010, the Learning and Developmental Disabilities Initiative (LDDI) released a report called “Mind, Disrupted: How Chemicals May Affect How We Think and Who We Are.” This was the first report to examine chemical pollution in people with learning and developmental disabilities. The report found that harmful chemicals can affect the brain, even if you don’t live near a waste site. Many of these chemicals can be found in everyday household products.
If I have ADHD, can I prevent passing it on to my child?
Genetically speaking, no. However, home environments can play a role in a child’s expression of their ADHD traits. Things like a parent’s mental health, personality traits (such as neuroticism), and education level can influence a child’s ADHD risk. If a parent has ADHD, it could affect how they structure their home. A more chaotic home environment might contribute to ADHD-like traits in their child.
Even when genetics plays a role, supportive parenting, coaching, and even proper supplementation with well-researched ingredients that improve brain function can improve outcomes for children with ADHD. Environmental factors might not determine ADHD traits entirely, but they can still help children thrive.
FAQs
How do you parent when you have ADHD?
Parenting with ADHD can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to manage it successfully. It’s essential to ensure that ADHD symptoms are well-controlled, which might involve working closely with a healthcare provider or therapist. Scheduling dedicated time with children can help build strong relationships, and using timers can improve focus during activities. Consistency is key in routines and discipline, and taking a personal time-out when feeling overwhelmed can prevent adverse reactions. Sharing parenting duties with a partner or support system can also help to ease the load.
Is morning anger a symptom of ADHD?
It can be. One potential cause of morning anger in individuals with ADHD is emotional dysregulation, which is a common challenge for those with the condition. Transitioning abruptly from a calm, relaxed sleep state to being awake can feel overwhelming and may lead to emotional outbursts.
Can puberty make ADHD worse?
During puberty, ADHD symptoms may become more intense, making it harder for teenagers to concentrate, remember important information, and regulate their emotions. This development period can present additional challenges for teens as they navigate school, relationships, and daily responsibilities.
Can ADHD be prevented?
While experts don’t know how to prevent ADHD in children, identifying and treating it early can help reduce symptoms and support healthy development. Early intervention can also significantly improve a child’s overall quality of life.
