10/19/2024
People with ADHD are often found to have deficits in the reward centres of the brain, particularly the dopamine system, where children may have low dopaminergic characteristics. ADHD stems from insufficiency of a particular neurotransmitter: norepinephrine (a.k.a. noradrenaline).
ADHD typically involves a deficit of norepinephrine activity in four specific sections of the brain:
1. Frontal cortex: manages and controls high-level functioning such as directing and organising attention, as well as executive function and more.
2. Limbic system: coordinates emotional and behavioural responses.
3. Basal ganglia: directs communication within the brain, similar to the control tower of an airport. It is heavily involved in motor coordination as well as habit formation, rewards and reinforcement.
4. Reticular activating system (RAS): a network of neurons that aid the hypothalamus in regulating behaviour. For more information visit https://www.unlockingadhd.com/adhd-from-a-scientific-point-of-view/
Image via Appalachian Online
