When Jess first learned her son, Max, had ADHD, she was overwhelmed. The diagnosis brought relief – finally, an explanation for his restlessness, impulsiveness and struggles with focus. But it also sparked countless questions.
How had this happened? How would it affect his life? Most importantly, how could she support him?
Jess’s journey is shared by many Australian families. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It occurs in 6-10% of Australian children and teens and 2-6% of adults. It’s estimated that at least 800,000 Australians have ADHD.
So, what is ADHD? What causes it? And how can a calming sensory space help children like Max?
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder – a type of neurological condition that is present from birth. It affects the development and function of the brain and nervous system.
One key impact is on executive function – the ability to manage (self-regulate) thoughts, words, actions and emotions. Neuroimaging studies consistently show differences in areas such as the prefrontal cortex, which governs attention, impulse control, and decision-making. The neurotransmitter dopamine, crucial for reward and motivation, is also thought to play a key role. In ADHD brains, dopamine levels are often imbalanced, contributing to hallmark symptoms like difficulty staying on task or managing impulses.
A child with ADHD has a unique type of brain. They can be creative, resilient, spontaneous and capable of impressive hyperfocus. It’s not surprising to learn that many high-achievers have ADHD, including entrepreneurs like Bill Gates and Richard Branson, gymnast Simone Biles, swimmer Michael Phelps and actress and activist Emma Watson, who stated in a Facebook post that she had been on ADHD medication while filming the Harry Potter series.
However, if it’s not identified, treated and supported, ADHD can interfere with learning and make schooling difficult.
Recognising the spectrum: the types of ADHD
While ADHD presents differently in each individual, it’s grouped into 3 main types:
- Predominantly inattentive type: Characterised by difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, and disorganisation. These individuals may not seem hyperactive in their behaviour but they have a hyperactive brain that’s constantly whirring.
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type: This type manifests as excessive movement, restlessness, and impulsive actions. It’s often more noticeable in younger children whose energy levels seem inexhaustible.
- Combined type: The most common form, involves a mix of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Is ADHD genetic?
Yes, there seems to be a strong genetic component to ADHD. It tends to run in families and can be inherited from a parent.
However, it can also be influenced by other factors such as brain injuries or conditions like childhood stroke.
Is ADHD a mental illness?
No, but it’s often linked to mental health difficulties. Up to 80% of people with ADHD also experience depression, anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Building a bridge: the role of understanding environments
ADHD isn’t just a diagnosis – it’s a lens through which individuals experience the world. While medication and psychological treatments can help people function more easily in a neurotypical world, changing their environment can also help.
Many people with ADHD are prone to sensory overload. This happens when the brain becomes overwhelmed with sensory input like sights, sounds and smells. This can trigger an intense ‘fight or flight’ stress response that may lead to a meltdown.
Calming sensory rooms are sensory-soothing environments that provide a room to reset. Darkness, illuminated shapes, gentle music, weighted cushions and floral aromas all help to ease symptoms of sensory overload and help children like Max to relax. These sensory rooms support emotional regulation, reduce stress and help improve focus.
Creative Sensory Spaces: a sanctuary for ADHD minds
Remember that about 800,000 Australians are thought to have ADHD. They’re present in countless schools and universities, workplaces and public venues, contributing their skills, gifts and insights.
But it can cost them. Installing a calming sensory room provides a room to reset, somewhere they can soothe their senses before re-engaging with the world.
Please book your free 15-minute starter session to explore how a sensory room could help people with ADHD in your community.
