ADHD

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder arising from the way the brain develops. The changes that occur in the brain affect your ability to pay attention, control behavior, and regulate emotions.

In most cases, ADHD is diagnosed between the ages of 4-7, but sometimes the condition isn’t recognized until adolescence or during adulthood. One-third of all children who have ADHD will continue to struggle with its challenges throughout their lifetime.

What symptoms does ADHD cause?

There are three types of ADHD — inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined, which includes symptoms from both types.

Children and adults with inattentive ADHD may:

• Overlook important details
• Frequently get distracted
• Make reckless mistakes
• Have a hard time following directions
• Forget to start or finish tasks
• Struggle to get organized
• Daydream when they should be paying attention

People with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may:

• Find it impossible to sit still
• Be constantly on the go
• Interrupt or talk over others
• Speak or act without thinking
• Seek immediate rewards
• Not wait their turn
• Lack self-control

Most children and adults with ADHD have problems with their working memory. That type of memory gives you the ability to keep several pieces of information in your head just long enough to use them.

Working memory is the tool needed to pay attention, follow instructions, solve a problem, and plan the next step. For example, you may ask your child to turn off the TV, wash their hands, and set the table. If they can’t keep the information in their head, they may turn off the TV and go play because they don’t remember all of your instructions.

How is ADHD treated?

Just Psych, LLC, takes a holistic approach when treating ADHD, using a combination of therapy and medication to improve a person’s individual challenges.

Therapy

Therapy serves many possible roles in ADHD treatment. During therapy, children and adults can learn to manage behavioral issues, from excessive fidgeting to outbursts of anger. You can use therapy to overcome many issues caused by ADHD, whether you need to learn social skills, manage stress, or get organized.

Medication

Stimulant medications balance brain chemicals, helping to improve attention and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, your provider may prescribe non-stimulant medications if stimulants cause side effects or aren’t effective.

If ADHD makes daily life a struggle for you or your child, call Just Psych, LLC, or book an appointment online today for help from a psychiatric and psychological perspective.