Recently, one of Bollywood’s most famous actors, Alia Bhatt, talked about her mental health struggles. She revealed that although she thought she was a great multitasker, she started to have memory problems, concentration problems, and even physical reactions in social situations. Her experience serves as a reminder of the significance of raising awareness of mental health issues and getting expert assistance. However, what specific bodily changes occur with ADHD, and how can it be properly handled?
How Alia Bhatt found out she had anxiety and ADHD
The ‘Jigra’ actress revealed in an interview on Jay Shetty’s podcast that she was diagnosed with anxiety and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) after seeing strange changes in her demeanour and physical appearance. Alia’s mental health problems became apparent when she noticed that she was having difficulty focusing on daily tasks and that her body heated up during social situations. Concerns were raised when she found that she was forgetting even the most basic things. To better understand her situation, she took a three-day professional test, and the results indicated that she had been diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety.
She described how receiving the diagnosis helped her feel better because she now understood why she was experiencing certain emotions. “The minute I was aware of these things, it actually made dealing with them much simpler,” she said. Alia Bhatt decided to control her medical condition with lifestyle modifications and proactive self-awareness, in contrast to those who depend on medication.
What changes in the body due to ADHD?
1. Brain Function & Neurotransmitters
- Lower Dopamine Levels: ADHD is linked to reduced dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for motivation, focus, and reward processing.
- Impaired Executive Functioning: Difficulty in planning, decision-making, and impulse control due to changes in the prefrontal cortex.
2. Nervous System & Hyperactivity
- Overactive Sympathetic Nervous System: Causes restlessness, fidgeting, and difficulty staying still.
- Delayed Response to Stimuli: Trouble processing and responding to information efficiently.
3. Sleep & Energy Levels
- Irregular Sleep Patterns: Many with ADHD struggle with insomnia or inconsistent sleep cycles.
- Fluctuating Energy Levels: Some experience bursts of hyperactivity, while others feel mentally drained.
4. Emotional & Hormonal Changes
- Heightened Emotional Sensitivity: Increased mood swings, frustration, or impulsivity.
- Stress & Anxiety: Higher levels of cortisol (stress hormone) can lead to anxiety and emotional outbursts.
5. Physical Health Impact
- Higher Risk of Obesity: Impulsivity may lead to poor dietary choices and binge eating.
- Tension & Restlessness: Constant movement or fidgeting can lead to muscle strain or fatigue.
What should you do if you experience similar symptoms?
1. Self-Assessment & Awareness
- Track Your Symptoms: Notice patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or emotional changes.
- Assess Daily Challenges: Identify areas where symptoms impact your work, relationships, or daily life.
2. Seek Professional Help
- Consult a Doctor or Psychiatrist: A medical professional can diagnose ADHD and rule out other conditions like anxiety or depression.
- Get Psychological Testing: A neuropsychological assessment can confirm whether ADHD is the cause of your symptoms.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments
- Improve Time Management: Use planners, reminders, and to-do lists to stay organized.
- Practice Mindfulness & Meditation: Helps improve focus and reduce impulsivity.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity boosts dopamine levels and enhances concentration.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and complex carbs support brain function.
- Follow a Structured Routine: Consistency helps manage hyperactivity and disorganization.
4. Consider Treatment Options
- Therapy (CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Helps develop coping strategies and manage impulsivity.
- Medication (If Needed): Doctors may prescribe stimulants or non-stimulants if ADHD is diagnosed.
5. Seek Support
- Join Support Groups: Connecting with others who have ADHD can provide motivation and shared strategies.
- Talk to Family & Friends: Educate them about your symptoms so they can support you better.
