ADHD

ADHD is categorized into three primary subtypes based on the predominant symptoms:

• Inattention Presentation: Individuals may have difficulty staying on task, sustaining focus, and staying organized, not due to defiance or a lack of comprehension. They overlook or miss details and make seemingly careless mistakes at school, work or during other activities. Seeming not to listen, difficulty following directions, losing things such as paper work or supplies, wallets, and cell phones. Easily distracted adn forgetful.
• Hyperactive Presentation: The primary symptoms are hyperactivity, such as fidgeting and extreme restlessness, when it is not appropriate, and excessive talking. Unable to engage in quiet work, and constantly in motion.
• Impulsivity Presentation: The primary symptoms are acting without thinking, difficulty with self-control, the inability to delay gratification, interrupting others, making important decisions without considering the long-term consequences. Difficulty waiting one’s turn, and intruding on others during conversations, games or activities.
• Combined presentation: This involves a mix of the other types.

The exact cause of ADHD remains elusive, but it is generally agreed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors contribute to its onset. Studies have shown that this condition runs in families, substantial evidence for the role of genetics.  Certain environmental factors, such as prenatal exposure to nicotine or alcohol, low birth weight, and lead exposure, have also been associated with an increased risk of developing ADHD.

Mercie Health offers On-site ADHD testing.

The diagnosis of ADHD typically involves a comprehensive assessment, including clinical interviews, observations, and standardized rating scales. These assessments aim to establish the presence, duration, and impact of symptoms on daily life. Symptoms should be present for at least six months and must cause significant impairment in function and cause the person to fall behind typical development for their age.

Symptoms change as the child matures. In early childhood hyperactivity-impulsivity is predominant. By elementary school, inattention may be more prominent. In adolescence restlessness and fidgeting arise but inattention and impulsivity remain, which tends to persist into adulthood.

Adolescents may have problems with emotional regulation, including irritability and frustration, which may also cause difficulty with relationships and antisocial behavior. Adults may have difficulties with executive function, social functioning and maintaining relationships, which can be exacerbated by co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Management of ADHD often involves a multi-pronged approach that may include medication, behavioral therapies, and educational interventions tailored to the individual’s age and specific symptomatology.

Stimulant medications are often the first choice for treatment and work well for most to improve focus and control impulsivity but can have side effects like sleep issues or loss of appetite. Non-stimulant medications are available for those who cannot take stimulants. Behavioral therapy can teach coping skills and organization techniques.

Medical and psychiatric professionals at Mercie Health and Wellness will consider the evolving nature of ADHD when developing treatment plans.

Our professionals will conduct periodic reassessments to adapt treatment strategies as the individual matures and their symptoms evolve. These periodic evaluations facilitate a nuanced understanding of the condition and ensure that treatment remains aligned with the individual’s changing needs.