F.A.Q.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a type of behavior disorder that occurs due to underperforming areas of the brain. As a result, children have a hard time with attention and self-regulation. Poor self-regulation leads to hyperactive and impulsive behaviors.
Most cases of ADHD are diagnosed at 6-12 years old. However, some people aren’t diagnosed until their teens or adulthood. For many, the challenges of ADHD continue throughout their adult life.
What symptoms occur due to ADHD?
ADHD symptoms fall into two broad categories: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Beyond the typical symptoms, many people with ADHD have additional problems, such as sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Children and adults may have one or both types of symptoms:
Inattentive symptoms
People with inattentive ADHD have a hard time paying attention and focusing on the task at hand. Signs of inattention include missing important details, making careless mistakes, and frequently losing things.
Children may not seem to listen when you talk to them. They’re also easily distracted and often fail to finish their chores or schoolwork. These problems may arise from a poor working memory, which prevents them from holding a list of instructions or items in their head. As a result, they forget the next step.
Hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
Symptoms associated with hyperactive and impulsive behaviors include:
- Fidgeting or being unable to sit still
- Talking excessively
- Having a hard time taking turns
- Interrupting conversations
- Being constantly active
- Finding it hard to control emotions
Many people with hyperactive-impulsive symptoms have poor impulse control. As a result, they can’t stop engaging in undesirable behaviors. This appears in different ways, including aggressive behaviors, lying, destroying property, and stealing.
How is ADHD treated?
ADHD treatment includes medications and psychotherapy (talk therapy). Stimulant medications boost brain chemicals that regulate attention and thinking. However, your provider may prescribe a nonstimulant medication if needed.
Psychotherapy for ADHD focuses on the behavioral and emotional challenges faced by each patient, teaching the skills needed to overcome their challenges. For example, therapy may teach how to organize tasks, build friendships, socialize, manage stress, or control anger.
Addiction and Psychiatric Care also works closely with parents of children receiving ADHD treatment. We help parents better understand ADHD and teach effective techniques parents can use to support their child at home.
If you or your child need help with ADHD, call Addiction and Psychiatric Care or book an appointment online today.