What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition linked with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD typically arises in childhood and continues through adolescence and adulthood; many people with ADHD aren’t diagnosed until adulthood.
ADHD can have a negative impact on your child’s school performance, self-esteem, and social interactions, resulting in difficulties forming friendship bonds and ongoing behavioral problems. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant impact on your child’s learning and emotional well-being.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
Every individual with a diagnosis of ADHD experiences symptoms differently. Symptoms are usually more severe in children than adults, but ADHD can interfere with school or work performance, self-confidence, and personal relationships no matter the age of the patient. ADHD symptoms fall within three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Examples of inattention include:
- Poor executive function
- Disorganization
- Difficulty listening
- Avoiding mentally demanding tasks
- Losing necessary items
- Losing focus before completing a task
Examples of hyperactivity include:
- Fidgeting
- Constant movement
- Excessive talking
- Difficulty remaining quiet during tasks
Examples of impulsivity include:
- Making fast decisions
- Risk-taking behavior
- Interrupting
- Constant motion
ADHD is associated with a variety of co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, learning disorders, sleep disorders, and substance abuse.
Who can diagnose ADHD?
Because it can occur along with other conditions, it’s essential to have a trained and experienced mental health provider perform an ADHD assessment for you or your child. The experts at Abbey Neuropsychology Clinic perform a comprehensive evaluation using evidence-based assessment tools to accurately diagnose ADHD and any co-occurring conditions.
Who can design a personalized ADHD treatment plan for me?
The skilled clinicians at Abbey Neuropsychology Clinic work with patients and families to design personalized treatment plans to address ADHD using a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach.
Your personalized treatment plan may include:
- Psychotherapy
- Family therapy
- Neurofeedback
- Neurovisual training
- Executive function coaching
- Cogmed Working Memory Training®
The team is made up of experts in a variety of neuropsychological specialties who collaborate effectively to offer coordinated care for comprehensive treatment of ADHD and related conditions.
To learn more about assessment and treatment options for ADHD, schedule a consultation at Abbey Neuropsychology Clinic.
