What is ADHD?

ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a common mental health disorder that affects children and adults alike. Although many individuals receive their ADHD diagnosis during childhood, symptoms can last well into adulthood.

The symptoms of ADHD, such as difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and trouble sitting still, can have an impact on your life at school, work, and even at home. Early intervention with the appropriate combination of treatments can help you navigate the effects of ADHD in a healthy manner.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD symptoms vary depending on the type you have. There are three primary types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined. After a comprehensive psychological evaluation, Latrice can better identify your type to determine the appropriate treatment.

Common signs of ADHD include:

1. Difficulty sitting still
2. Trouble concentrating
3. Impulsive behavior
4. Brain fog
5. Poor organizational skills
6. Forgetfulness
7. Interrupting others
8. Feeling easily distracted
9. Talking too much
10. Poor executive functioning
11. Frequent daydreaming

If you or a loved one exhibits signs of ADHD, Latrice can perform a comprehensive assessment at her office.

What causes ADHD?

Currently, there is no known cause of ADHD. However, many medical professionals believe the disorder is more prevalent in certain individuals, including those who:

1. Have a close relative with ADHD
2. Were born prematurely
3. Sustained a brain injury
4. Were exposed to drugs, alcohol, or tobacco in utero

Extreme stress from the mother during pregnancy can also raise a child’s risk of developing ADHD.

What are the treatments for ADHD?

Latrice’s method for treating ADHD depends on your type, severity of symptoms, and age. A combination of mental health counseling and medication management is the most common treatment for ADHD.

Mental health counseling

Certain types of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), enable individuals to change unhelpful behaviors into more helpful ones. CBT identifies negative patterns, like difficulty completing a task, and establishes helpful strategies to create more positive thoughts and actions.

Medication management

Several medications are available to help minimize the symptoms of ADHD. Stimulants are the most common medications used to treat the disorder. Methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall®) can help combat brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and other common ADHD symptoms.

To learn more about ADHD, call Journey2Wellness or complete appointment request form to schedule an appointment today.