ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with work and relationships. The experienced team at Westwood Psychiatry Associates provides comprehensive and patient-centered care for people with ADHD in Westwood, New Jersey. To schedule an ADHD consultation today, call the office or click the book online button. Telemedicine appointments are available.

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition that causes ongoing problems with attention and behavior that affects daily functioning. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it occurs during early childhood brain development, altering brain structure and function.

Research suggests that ADHD develops from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Though scientists haven’t identified the genes that cause ADHD, the neurodevelopmental disorder is as inheritable as your height. 

Prenatal exposure to alcohol and nicotine, low birth weight, and premature birth are environmental factors linked to ADHD.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Though everyone experiences these symptoms from time to time, in people with ADHD they’re more frequent, severe, and disruptive to daily life.

Inattention symptoms

Inattention symptoms of ADHD include difficulty maintaining attention, inability to complete work on time, and having a hard time staying organized. 

Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms

Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms of ADHD affect behavior, making it hard to sit still or wait your turn. You may also talk excessively or interrupt others during a conversation.

You can have ADHD and not have all of the symptoms. Some people only struggle with inattentive symptoms, while others may have a harder time with hyperactivity and impulsivity. 

How is ADHD diagnosed?

There’s no single test for diagnosing ADHD. The team at Westwood Psychiatry Associates may use a symptom rating scale and conduct an extensive interview about your childhood to determine if your symptoms are due to ADHD or something else.

For an ADHD diagnosis, you must show a history of symptoms before age 12.

If you were diagnosed with ADHD as a child, you still have ADHD as an adult. 

What are the treatments for ADHD?

The team takes a collaborative and patient-centered approach to care. They talk to you about your ADHD and treatment options. Then, you work together, developing a plan that best helps you manage your symptoms.

ADHD treatment may include:

Medication management

Medication management for ADHD includes psychiatric medications that act on certain areas of the brain to improve attention and focus. The team works closely with you, helping you find the right medication and dose that improves your symptoms, but causes the fewest side effects.

Psychotherapy

The team customizes your ADHD psychotherapy plan, focusing on your symptoms and developing strategies to manage them.

For compassionate and comprehensive ADHD care, call Westwood Psychiatry Associates or schedule an appointment online today.