What is ADHA?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the brain’s ability to manage attention, impulses, and energy levels. While often diagnosed in childhood, ADHD frequently persists into adulthood, affecting careers, relationships, and self-esteem.​ ADHD presents differently in everyone. The medical community categorizes it into three primary presentations:

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1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (formerly ADD)

Individuals with this type may not seem "hyperactive." Instead, they struggle with focus and organization.

• Signs: Daydreaming, easily distracted, missing details, losing daily items (keys, phone), and difficulty following through on tasks.

2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

This type is characterized by a need for constant movement and difficulty with self-control.

• Signs: Fidgeting, excessive talking, inability to sit still, interrupting others, and acting without thinking of the consequences.

3. Combined Presentation

This is the most common form of ADHD, where an individual exhibits significant symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

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Common Symptoms

Symptoms often change as a person ages. While a child might run around the classroom, an adult might feel an internal sense of restlessness or "racing thoughts."

Inattention Symptoms:

• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play.

• "Zoning out" when spoken to directly.

• Chronic procrastination or trouble starting tasks that require mental effort.

• Poor time management and organizational skills.

• Forgetfulness in daily activities (paying bills, keeping appointments).
   

Hyperactivity & Impulsivity Symptoms:

• Fidgeting, tapping hands, or squirming in seats.

• Feeling "driven by a motor" or unable to relax.

• Blurting out answers or finishing other people's sentences.

• Difficulty waiting your turn in lines or conversation.

• Impulsive spending or decision-making.
   

How We Diagnose ADHD

There is no single blood test for ADHD. Diagnosis is a clinical process that requires expertise to distinguish ADHD from anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders. At Suburban Psychiatric Specialists, our evaluation includes:

• Clinical Interview: A deep dive into your medical history and current struggles.

• Symptom Checklists: Standardized rating scales to measure the severity of symptoms.

• History Review: establishing that symptoms were present before age 12 and impact multiple areas of life (work, school, home).

• Exclusionary Testing: Ruling out other medical or mental health conditions.
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Our Treatment Approach

ADHD is highly manageable. We build personalized treatment plans that may include:

• Medication Management: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications are considered the gold standard for symptom control, helping to balance neurotransmitters in the brain.

• Behavioral Therapy: Strategies to improve executive function, organization, and emotional regulation.

• Educational Support: Guidance on requesting school accommodations (IEP/504 plans) for children and students.

• Lifestyle Coaching: optimizing sleep, nutrition, and exercise to support brain health.