What is ADHD?
ADHD is a mental health disorder that interferes with your ability to focus, sit still, or control your impulses. Physicians usually diagnose ADHD in children, although adults can develop the condition, too.
Psychiatrists haven’t identified a specific cause of ADHD. Some research indicates a genetic component as around three-quarters of children with ADHD also have a relative who has the disorder. Other potential contributing factors include premature birth, brain injury, and poor maternal health during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD presents as either primarily inattentive, primarily hyperactive and impulsive, or a combination of both.
Some of the common inattentive symptoms include:
- Low attention to detail and makes careless mistakes
- Trouble staying focused on tasks or activities
- Doesn’t seem to listen when spoken to
- Doesn’t follow instructions or complete schoolwork
- Poor organization and time management
- Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained attention or effort
- Frequently misplaces items like homework, keys, or cell phone
- Forgets daily tasks
Typical hyperactive symptoms include:
- Fidgets or can’t sit still
- Runs and plays at inappropriate times
- Doesn’t play quietly
- Talks too much
- Interrupts or blurts out answers
- Has trouble waiting for turns
Most people occasionally display some of these symptoms, but if you or your child have ADHD, you have symptoms for six months or more, and they can interfere with your life.
When should I talk to a doctor about ADHD?
When left untreated, ADHD can interfere with your ability to succeed at school or work and develop relationships, impacting your self-esteem. If you notice that you or your child have ADHD symptoms, make an appointment at Live Well Psychiatry for an evaluation and diagnosis. When you start treatment early, you can reduce the harmful effects of ADHD on your overall health and wellness.
How is ADHD treated?
The team at Live Well Psychiatry provides evidence-based, rigorous diagnostic testing, and evaluations. They’re committed to getting your diagnosis right the first time, so you and your family can get the treatment and support you need as quickly as possible.
The team tailors each treatment plan to the individual needs of each patient. However, in general, treatment usually includes a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
Medication can reduce your symptoms, improving your focus, and lessening hyperactive or impulsive behaviors. During therapy, you learn techniques to modify your actions, increase your attention span, and make safe, healthy decisions. Many patients also find that limiting or eliminating sugar and processed foods from their diet and getting daily exercise helps regulate their behaviors.
If you are concerned about ADHD, call Live Well Psychiatry today.
