Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Diagnosis and Treatment

I have read a lot of seemingly contradictory information about ADHD recently. Are you able to provide any clarity?

Yes! Start by reading our recent blog post about the ADHD diagnosis process!

What is Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a mental health condition that interferes with your ability to maintain concentration or attention on daily tasks. It can also lead to problems with organization and time management. ADHD is believed to manifest during childhood and can persist through adulthood. Everyone experiences occasional difficulty with concentration, but in ADHD the problem is persistent and can dramatically reduce an individual’s quality of life. ADHD can significantly impact a person’s ability to function in daily life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

The process of diagnosing ADHD begins with a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist. During the evaluation, the mental health professional will gather information about the person’s symptoms, medical history, and development. They may also conduct assessments to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.

To be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must have symptoms that meet the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. These criteria include having five or more symptoms of inattention and/or five or more symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months and must be severe enough to cause impairment in at least two areas of life (e.g. school, work, relationships).

If you experience difficulty with attention, consider contacting our provider for a consultation.

When should I seek treatment for ADHD?

If you are struggling to succeed at work, school, or in relationships and attention symptoms have been persistent since childhood then you may have ADHD. Consider seeing a psychiatric specialist in ADHD at Benson Behavioral Health for a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.

How is ADHD treated?

ADHD treatments should be entirely individualized. Treatment for ADHD typically includes a combination of medication and therapy. Medications that are commonly used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall, as well as non-stimulant medications like Strattera. These medications can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. At Benson Behavioral Health, online ADHD treatment begins with a complete evaluation of an individual’s mental and physical health status. We provide evidence-based ADHD treatments, including prescription ADHD medication, nutritional supplements, sleep pattern modifications, supportive psychotherapy, referral to talk therapists or treatment centers, and more.

 

Want to get started? Click new patients above to request a consultation.