Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of children and adults all over the world. Each year, October is designated as ADHD Awareness Month, when organisations, groups and individuals devote themselves to 'sharing reliable information about ADHD based on science and peer-reviewed research'.
Sensory Hug® Maxi in Mermaid and Mini in Bulldog designs |
ADHD Awareness Month is sponsored by several organisations, including Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), the ADHD Coaches Organisation (ACO) and the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA).
ADHD is known as a 'non-discriminatory condition', which means that it can affect people of any gender, age, race, sexuality, IQ or socio-economic background. According to figures released by the ADHD Action Charity, around 1.5 million children and adults in the UK are affected by ADHD but only a small percentage have been formally diagnosed. One of the main aims of ADHD Awareness Month is to encourage people to seek proper medical assessment, arrange appropriate treatment and share resources.
Each year, ADHD Awareness Month has a theme, this year it's; 'Awareness is Key!'. The event seeks to encourage the ADHD community to increase awareness and understanding by sharing ADHD information and support with all individuals who could benefit.
ADHD is defined through behavioural analysis. People with ADHD display a persistent, lasting pattern of inattention, sometimes with impulsivity and hyperactivity, that has an impact on their development and daily functioning. Most cases of ADHD are identified and diagnosed in children between the ages of six and twelve though many people are not diagnosed until well into adulthood.
How dynamic Lycra® helps with sensory seeking behaviours
While there is no cure for ADHD, there are many ways in which the symptoms can be effectively managed, such as with the use of psychological therapies including interpersonal psychotherapy, social skills training and CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy). Some people with ADHD can also benefit from the use of medications like Ritalin.
Sensory Hug® Mini in Bulldog showing zip strip detaili |
Wearing purpose-designed dynamic compression garments, like the Sensory Hug®; one of 'The World of SDO®' garment ranges by Medigarments Ltd, has also been clinically proven to help improve the quality of life for people with ADHD by providing a practical, effective way to deliver continuous, consistent deep pressure. Crafted from a combination of Orthowrap™ and Lycra®, the Mini and Maxi formats of the Sensory Hug® provide proprioceptive and sensory feedback to the wearer, helping to reduce both the incidence and severity of the atypical sensory behaviours often associated with neurological conditions like autism and ADHD.
The sensory and proprioceptive feedback the garment provides helps to reduce overactivity, anxiety, restlessness and other negative patterns of sensory-seeking behaviour. These marked decreases directly result in corresponding increases in things like attentiveness, concentration, body awareness, stability, independence, calmness, coping ability and general functioning.
Find out more about the Sensory Hug® and other SDO® ranges from Medigarments Ltd on our website or reach out to our expert clinical team who are happy to assist you. For more special features like this one here, please subscribe to our free email newsletter or alternatively spread the word by liking and following us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.
For more information about ADHD Awareness Month, please visit www.adhdawarenessmonth.org
The Sensory Hug® is part of The World of SDO® Sensory Dynamic Orthosis range of dynamic Lycra® compression garments by Medigarments Ltd. Sensory Hug® and SDO® are the registered trademarks of Medigarments Ltd.