What is ADHD?

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects many people. Individuals with ADHD may struggle to pay attention, manage impulsive behaviors (i.e. not considering the consequences of their actions), or be excessively active.

The inability to concentrate, being quickly distracted, hyperactivity, poor organizational abilities, and impulsiveness are some of the signs and symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms differ from one individual to the next and tend to fluctuate as people become older.

Does ADHD have an impact on distractibility?

ADHD sufferers are prone to be quickly sidetracked, or also hyperfocused. An individual with ADHD can become so absorbed in something that they lose track of everything else going on around them.

When you’re trying to concentrate on a particular task, it’s common for your mind to stray. According to various studies, we spend 47% of our waking hours thinking about something other than what we’re currently doing. While a short attention span isn’t usually a cause for concern, it might be a sign of an underlying disorder, like ADHD.

How does social media affect individuals with ADHD?

Why do notifications—emails, tweets, or status updates—make us feel so special? Why do we get so excited when the photo we posted this morning has already gotten several likes?

Researchers are starting to explore how social media affects our brains, especially in those with ADHD. When we receive notifications, the brain releases neurotransmitters linked to pleasure and a feeling of being more concentrated. With smartphone use estimated to reach almost nine hours per day, it can disrupt daily activities, relationships, and more for teens and adults with ADHD.

How can Opal help?

Opal aims to help people develop healthier screen time habits by balancing social media with their personal and professional lives. Our mission is to help people take back control of their phones by finding the right balance and focusing on what’s most important to them. If you have ADHD, then Opal is the right companion for you in regaining focus and control!

What our gems with ADHD say

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