What is ADHD?
ADHD is a chronic condition that causes persistent problems for children and adults, including problems with concentration, impulsive behaviors, and hyperactivity. If you or your child have ADHD, it can lead to other issues like poor self-esteem, relationship issues, and poor performance at school or work.
What are symptoms of ADHD in children?
There are three subtypes of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. Each subtype displays specific symptoms that can disrupt your life at home or school. For a diagnosis, your child must display symptoms for at least six months.
Predominantly inattentive
- Makes careless mistakes
- Has trouble staying focused on a task
- Has trouble following directions
- Misplaces or loses items
- Is easily distracted or forgetful
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
- Can’t sit still
- Can’t focus on quiet activities
- Talks too much and interrupts others
- Has trouble waiting for their turn
Children with combined ADHD display symptoms and behaviors from both the inattentive and hyperactive subtypes.
What are ADHD symptoms in adults?
When adults are diagnosed with ADHD, it’s usually because the condition was undiagnosed in childhood. Adults tend to display symptoms like:
- Poor organizational skills
- Impulsiveness
- Poor time management
- Easily frustrated
- Poor performance at work
- Mood swings and irritability
How is ADHD treated?
The team at Pacifica Care of Suncoast provides treatments that are customized to address your needs or the needs of your child. Treatment plans for ADHD typically include a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
The most common medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin. While it might sound counterintuitive to give your hyperactive child a stimulant, these medications increase the brain chemicals needed for cognition and attention.
Psychotherapies, which include behavioral therapies, are also helpful to teach and support healthier, less disruptive behaviors. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practice can improve concentration and focus.
Changes to your diet and exercise habits can also help reduce some of your or your child’s symptoms. Reducing processed and sugar-filled foods and increasing physical activity are not only good for your mental health but also offer physical benefits.
If you or your child exhibit ADHD symptoms, call or schedule a consultation online today.
