ADHD

Children and adults with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) may have inattention symptoms, hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, or both (combined ADHD). Chima Asikaiwe, MD, and Cecilia Chanda, PMHNP, offer expert ADHD care for people of all ages at Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services in Garland, Texas. Whatever symptoms you or your child have, they likely interfere with all aspects of life, including school, work, home, and relationships. Call the office today for comprehensive, holistic ADHD treatment in supportive surroundings, or book an appointment online.

What is ADHD?

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition involving an imbalance in a person’s brain chemicals. These imbalances slow or stop activity in certain areas of the brain, leading to attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity problems.

ADHD typically develops in childhood, before the age of 12. While many children receive a diagnosis and get the help they need, others struggle throughout their school years and into adulthood.

Is there a difference between ADHD and ADD?

ADHD and ADD are terms for the same disorder, but the specifics differ.

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is the diagnosis originally given to children with long-term problems with concentration and attention. However, after years of experience treating children with ADD, neurodevelopmental experts identified that many children also display hyperactive and impulsive behaviors.

As a result, the three defining symptoms (lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity) now come under the single condition of ADHD.

What symptoms does ADHD cause?

People who have ADHD with inattentive symptoms (previously called ADD) experience problems paying attention to details, make careless mistakes and find it challenging to complete tasks requiring concentration.

They may not listen when spoken to, fail to follow instructions, frequently lose their possessions, and lack organizational skills. They’re easily distracted by their thoughts or what’s happening around them and tend to forget daily activities and tasks.

ADHD with hyperactive and impulsive symptoms causes problems that include:

• Fidgeting and being unable to sit still
• Getting up when told to stay seated
• Running, climbing, and playing at inappropriate times
• Inability to keep quiet
• Talking excessively and often loudly
• Being constantly on the go
• Impatience
• Interrupting or intruding on others

ADHD makes it hard for children and adults to regulate their moods and emotions, resulting in frustration and anger.

How is ADHD treated?

Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services treats adults and children with ADHD as individuals, so specific treatment plans may vary. However, the main treatments are psychotherapy and medication.

Stimulant medications help by increasing the levels of brain chemicals that regulate thought processes and attention. Psychotherapy allows people to process the emotions and thoughts resulting from their experiences, reducing stress, depression, and anxiety.

Behavioral therapy techniques help people improve their organizational and social skills and regulate the behaviors that most affect their lives.

If you or your child might have ADHD, call Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services today or schedule an appointment online.