ADHD

What is ADHD?

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) affects a person’s ability to focus, pay attention, and sit still for long periods. Without treatment, ADHD can affect job performance, grades at school, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships. See the mentalHope Psychiatry specialists at the first sign of debilitating ADHD.

Which symptoms does ADHD cause?

Hallmark symptoms of ADHD include:

• Easily distracted
• Impulsive decision making
• Restlessness
• Difficulty paying attention
• Problems multitasking
• Missed appointments
• Mood swings
• Disorganization
• Poor time management skills
• Excessive activity
• Difficulty sitting still
• Low frustration tolerance
• Poor planning or following through with tasks
• Trouble coping with stress

People with ADHD might exhibit fewer symptoms of the condition as they age, but some adults have ADHD that interferes with everyday functioning when left untreated.

Who is at risk of ADHD?

The cause of ADHD isn’t fully understood, but the following things can increase your risk of developing it:

• Premature birth
• Family history of ADHD
• Smoking, drinking, or drug use during pregnancy
• Childhood exposure to lead or other environmental toxins

Adopting healthy habits during pregnancy and in childhood can lessen the risk of ADHD, but there’s no surefire way to avoid it if you’re genetically prone to it.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

The mentalHope Psychiatry experts diagnose ADHD after meeting with you via telehealth. They address your symptoms, lifestyle, medications, and more. During psychiatric evaluation, they discuss your mood, thoughts, behaviors, and emotions to determine if you have ADHD, another mental health condition, or more than one concern.

mentalHope Psychiatry conducts thorough evaluations to accurately diagnose ADHD, considering various factors, including behavioral assessments, medical history, and input from family members or teachers when appropriate.

How is ADHD treated?

Treating ADHD often involves the following:

• Medication management
• Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
• Lifestyle counseling

You might take medication to improve focus, learn ways to better cope with your condition via behavioral changes, or adjust your lifestyle. For example, it’s helpful to establish a regular routine, exercise regularly, make to-do lists, get plenty of sleep, reduce stress, and eat nutritious foods.

Schedule a telehealth ADHD evaluation at mentalHope Psychiatry by booking an appointment online today.