ADHD

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a long-term neurobiological disorder affecting behavior. It usually appears in childhood and can persist into adulthood.

Around 3%-5% of American children are diagnosed with ADHD. The condition is 3-6 times more common in boys.

Research indicates, at least for now, that ADHD has no clear cause. However, biological and environmental influences likely contribute to its development.

What symptoms does ADHD cause?

ADHD symptoms fit into three categories. The first is inattention, which causes:

• Forgetfulness
• Being easily distracted
• Poor organizational skills
• Lack of concentration
• Making careless mistakes

The second is hyperactivity, which can cause:

• Fidgeting and squirming when seated
• Talking loudly and excessively
• Being on the go all the time
• Difficulty doing quiet activities

The third symptom category is impulsivity. Examples include blurting out answers in class, interrupting conversations, making decisions without evaluating the outcomes, and difficulty waiting to take turns.

These behaviors interfere with daily functioning at home and school. Some children exhibit behaviors from two or all three categories, while others only display one.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

The Mind Health Institute, Orange County team diagnoses ADHD by assessing the child’s behavior and interviewing their parents. They review the child’s medical, family, and school history and gather information from teachers and other professionals familiar with the child’s behavior.

Rating scales completed by parents, their children, and teachers help the team obtain information to reach a diagnosis.

Which treatments are available for children with ADHD?

Medication — most often stimulants — is often used to manage ADHD symptoms. Therapy and parent training teach you and your child ways to change behaviors to reduce problematic behaviors.

Psychoeducational evaluations help by identifying other mental health problems. They’re valuable for effective treatment planning and arranging school accommodations.

The Mind Health Institute, Orange County team recommends ways for you to help your child. These can include:

• Establishing routines
• Limiting excess noise and stimulation
• Breaking down complicated tasks
• Providing a clear workspace to improve focus
• Managing distractions
• Using clear and simple language
• Setting clear goals
• Offering fewer choices to prevent confusion 
• Praising and rewarding good behavior
• Providing regular breaks

Mind Health Institute, Orange County, offers a complete ADHD treatment program. It consists of parent management training (PMT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), executive functioning and organizational skills support, trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS), medication monitoring, and nutritional and lifestyle consultation.

Call Mind Health Institute, Orange County, or book an appointment online today if you or your child need help managing ADHD.