ADHD

Millions of children in the United States have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adults can be affected by the condition, too. If you or your child struggles to pay attention and focus, Catherine Nwah, NP, and the team at Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, which has offices in Parkville and Catonsville, Maryland, offer effective solutions. Schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment at Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC by phone, or request one online today.

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, can occur in adults and children. It’s a chronic condition that makes paying attention, focusing, and thriving in everyday situations difficult. 

ADHD is also associated with impulsive behavior and problems with social relationships. Treatment can restore your or your child’s quality of life. 

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD symptoms are often apparent before age 12. They might be mild, moderate, or severe. The following signs and symptoms are associated with ADHD:

• Careless mistakes at work or school
• Difficulty paying attention or following through with tasks
• Appearing not to listen when spoken to
• Losing items easily
• Being distracted often
• Forgetting daily activities
• Fidgeting or squirming while seated
• Being in constant motion
• Difficulty working quietly
• Blurting out answers at school, interrupting, or talking too much

Symptoms of ADHD include problems with focus and hyperactivity. Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is ADHD without hyperactivity.

What causes ADHD?

The cause of ADHD is unknown but may be associated with genetics, central nervous system problems, or environmental factors. Risk factors for developing ADHD include:

• Family history of ADHD
• Drugs, alcohol, or smoking during pregnancy
• Exposure to lead or other environmental toxins
• Premature birth

Complications associated with ADHD can include problems in the classroom, poor grades, injuries, accidents, low self-esteem, difficulty interacting with other people, and a higher risk of drug or alcohol abuse.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

To diagnose ADHD, the team at Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC reviews your or your child’s medical history and asks questions about their symptoms. The team completes a physical exam and gathers information about social and behavioral tendencies. 

If ADHD symptoms negatively affect work, school, or social relationships, treatment can improve your or your child’s quality of life. 

How is ADHD treated?

The team at Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC personalizes each ADHD treatment to match your or your child’s needs, preferences, and lifestyle. They might recommend:

Lifestyle changes

Making your child’s life structured with set routines can help them thrive. Encourage them to get plenty of sleep and physical activity, eat a healthy diet, and take vitamin supplements if your provider recommends it. They can work closely with you and your child’s teachers to optimize their outcomes.

ADHD therapy

ADHD therapy may include behavioral therapy, social skills training, psychotherapy, family therapy, or parenting skills training. Your provider will let you know which therapy, or combination of treatments, best matches your or your child’s needs.

Medications

Some medications help your child focus better at work or school. The team at Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC lets you know which medicine might work best for you and reviews the pros and cons of each ADHD treatment with you.

Don’t live with ADHD symptoms when simple treatments can restore your or your child’s quality of life. Schedule an appointment at Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC by calling the office or booking one online today.