ADHD

What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder defined by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that significantly impair your daily function in various settings like your home, school, and/or work. It typically manifests in childhood and can continue into adulthood.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

The symptoms of ADHD can vary in severity and presentation, leading to three main subtypes: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined type, which includes symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Unlike younger patients, most adults with ADHD don’t exhibit hyperactivity. However, as an adult, you may encounter challenges related to attentiveness, decision-making, and impulse control.

If you have ADHD, you may struggle with:

• Sustaining attention to tasks
• Organizing activities
• Following through on instructions or commitments
• Losing items
• Being distracted easily
• Managing time
• Feeling frustrated easily
• Being moody and irritable
• Managing stress

Hyperactivity symptoms may present as excessive fidgeting, restlessness, or an inability to remain seated in situations where it’s expected. Impulsivity may manifest as blurting out answers, interrupting others, or engaging in risky behaviors without considering the consequences.

How is ADHD treated?

After a thorough health and medical history assessment, Thomas creates a personalized treatment plan that may include:

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral therapy teaches coping strategies, organizational skills, and techniques to help you manage impulsivity and improve your attention span. This may involve cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps you recognize and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with ADHD.

Therapy can also help you learn techniques to manage your time, improve your organization, and control your moods.

Medication

Thomas may prescribe medications, such as stimulant medications or amphetamine-based drugs, to improve your attention, concentration, and impulse control.

Nonstimulant medications and certain antidepressants can help if you don’t respond well to or can’t tolerate stimulants.

Educational interventions

Apart from therapy and medication, educational adjustments such as adapted assignments, extended test time, and behavioral interventions within the classroom environment can provide valuable support when in academic settings.

Lifestyle changes

Thomas may also suggest modifying your lifestyle, such as boosting physical activity, incorporating meditation practices, or making dietary adjustments.

If you or a loved one struggles with signs of ADHD, call Point of View Mental Health today to book a telehealth appointment. Online booking is available as well.