ADHD
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood, and it can last into adulthood as well. Those who suffer from ADHD often have difficulties paying attention, completing tasks, and controlling impulsive behavior. Roughly 7-11% of children, ages 4-17, are diagnosed with ADHD. ADHD can present in three ways: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined presentation.
What causes ADHD?
While there is no singular cause for ADHD itself, there are many factors that may play a part in the development of ADHD. People who have a relative with ADHD are more likely to have ADHD. In addition, the below, factors can increase risk for ADHD::
- Premature delivery
- Low birthweight
- Alcohol or tobacco use during pregnancy
- Exposure to lead during childhood
Symptoms of ADHD
While it is common for most children to show signs of difficulty concentrating or instances of disruptive behavior, those with ADHD continue to show these symptoms as they age, and the symptoms typically affect their ability to function at home, school, or around their friends. In general, most of these symptoms present themselves before age 12.
A child who has ADHD can show signs and symptoms such as:
- Talking too much
- Daydreaming a lot
- Squirming or fidgeting
- Difficulty getting along with other
- Forgetfulness
- Easily losing things
- Taking unnecessary risks
- Making careless mistakes
- Trouble taking turns
How is ADHD diagnosed?
Your Geode Health provider will work with you, or your child, to better understand the situation and assess the symptoms that are present.
At Geode Health, evaluations are 60 minutes long to give you enough time to share your story and for your clinician to ask important follow-up questions. For ADHD, additional testing or prior medical records may help solidify the diagnosis. Your clinician will guide you through the evaluation process.
Seek treatment for ADHD symptoms at Geode Health
If you or your child exhibits signs of ADHD, book an appointment with a Geode provider to discuss treatment options.
Different types of ADHD
Predominantly inattentive presentation
People who have this type of ADHD exhibit at least six of the following symptoms for at least six months:
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Regularly makes careless mistakes
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Difficulty maintaining attention during tasks
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Inability to pay close attention to details
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Appears not to listen when being spoken to
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Doesn’t follow through on given instructions
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Doesn’t finish school work
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Forgetfulness
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Difficulty in organizing tasks
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Avoidance of situations that require consistent mental effort
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Becomes easily distracted by external stimuli
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
Those with this form of ADHD will exhibit at least six of the following symptoms for at least six months:
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Constantly interrupts or intrudes on others
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Excessive talking
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Runs around or climbs on things in inappropriate situations
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Inability to participate in leisure activities quietly
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A tendency to fidget with their hands or feet
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Squirming in their seat
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Will blurt out answers before a question is fully asked
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Difficulty in waiting for their turn
Combined presentation
For someone to have a combined presentation of ADHD, they must exhibit symptoms of both types in an equal manner.
Treatment for ADHD
Talk Therapy
Also known as psychotherapy, talk therapy is an effective option for a number of different symptoms and conditions, including ADHD. Talk therapy can take many different forms, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Studies show that the best outcomes for people with ADHD occur when talk therapy is a component of the treatment. You and your therapist can work to find the best option for your specific situation, condition, and symptoms. Talk therapy can be used in combination with medication and other forms of treatment, if needed.
Medication Management
Stimulants are recommended as first-line treatment for ADHD. At Geode Health, our prescribing clinicians are able to prescribe stimulants according to local and federal regulations. Our providers will adjust medication doses and frequency to ensure you get the best treatment for you. For stimulants specifically, medical monitoring will also include review of the physician drug monitoring program (PDMP), required in-person visits at regular intervals, and blood pressure checks to ensure that stimulants are prescribed safely and in accordance with best practices.
Find help for yourself or your child with ADHD treatments at Geode Health
Whether you’re looking for ADHD treatment for your child, or you want to schedule an evaluation for yourself, you can trust the experts at Geode Health. View our current locations to find a mental health facility near you or schedule an appointment online to get started now.
If you are in crisis and in need of immediate support
Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 or text the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741741