What is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting areas of the brain related to attention, impulse control, and executive functions. Unfortunately, its symptoms are often misunderstood to be a result of poor discipline, lenient parenting, or laziness; however, we must clarify that ADHD is not a result of personal character flaw or parenting style.
ADHD is broken to three parts: Inattention, hyperactivity, or a mixture of both. Symptoms may vary in severity and may manifest differently for each individual. It is important to speak to your psychiatric provider about ADHD treatment in San Diego.
A Breakdown of ADHDs Symptoms:
Keeping in mind that ADHD isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition, it is important to talk to your mental health provider in San Diego to review symptoms you may be experiencing.
Inattention:
- Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
- Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
- Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
- Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace.
- Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
- Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
- Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities.
- Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
- Is often forgetful in daily activities.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity:
- Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in their seat.
- Often leaves a seat in situations where remaining seated is expected.
- Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness).
- Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
- Is often “on the go” acting as if “driven by a motor.”
- Often talks excessively.
- Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
- Often has difficulty waiting their turn.
- Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).
When an individual experiences symptom of both inattention and hyperactivity/Impulsivity, criteria for ADHD, combined type is to be considered. Criteria for ADHD is dependent on the duration, quantity of symptoms, and the impact on daily functioning.
ADHD Treatment Options in San Diego
Experiencing symptoms of ADHD comes with its unique set of challenges often negatively impacting academic or occupational performance, contributing to strained relationships, and impairing the individual’s self-esteem. When left untreated, it can worsen anxiety disorders in San Diego amongst other mental health conditions.
Treatment of ADHD involves a combination of behavioral therapy, medications, supportive measures, and lifestyle modifications.
Medication:
- Stimulant medications are often the first-line of treatment for ADHD. Examples include Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall.
- Non-stimulant medications are available for those unable to tolerate stimulants. Examples include Atomoxetine (Strattera), Guanfacine (Intuniv), and Qelbree.
Behavioral therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy works on challenging the individual to simplify their daily responsibilities by breaking tasks into smaller steps, setting up routines and reminders, and using organization apps or planners.
- Parenting training involves coaching parents’ effective strategies for managing their child’s behaviors, implementing consistent routine, and providing appropriate structure and discipline.
Lifestyle Modifications:
- These modifications challenge the individual to incorporate regular exercise, to obtain adequate sleep, and have a balanced diet – all of which can support brain health and overall functioning.
- Regular physical activities increases dopamine, and other feel-good hormone levels in the brain which in return improves cognition.
- Creating a structured and organized environment at home and school can help individuals with ADHD stay focused and minimize distractions.
- Using visual aids, timers, and reminders can assist with time management and task completion.
Educating individuals with ADHD and their families about the nature of the disorder, its impact on daily functioning, and available treatment options can help reduce stigma and improve adherence to treatment plans. Connect with Sacred Psychiatric in San Diego. Our dedicated experts strive to empower those with ADHD, enabling them to lead enriching, self-sufficient lives with comprehensive care.