About Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Around 5% of children in the United States have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to the American Psychiatric Association. At Pacific Mind Health in Long Beach, California, experienced psychiatrists and mental health providers offer successful treatment methods for men, women, and children with ADHD. The Pacific Mind Health psychiatrists know that everyone is different and deserves the highest standard of customized mental health care and medical support. Take the first step and schedule your consultation online or call today.
What is ADHD?
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, impacts self-control, focus, and other important life skills. The brain disorder is characterized by an ongoing pattern of hyperactivity and impulsivity and inattention that interferes with daily life and normal functioning.
ADHD is more common in childhood and adolescence, but it can occur at any age. For children, it can affect how they function at school and in everyday life.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD affects people differently. People with ADHD may act impulsive and are often easily distracted and fidgety.
Symptoms of ADHD can include:
Many people with ADHD may have trouble with certain skills and functions, such as:
Some people might also have difficulty finishing a task, paying attention to details, following conversations or instructions, and resisting temptation.
What causes ADHD?
The cause of ADHD isn’t clear, but many experts have linked the condition to differences in brain anatomy. ADHD seems to run in families and if you have a family history of ADHD, you’re more likely to develop it.
Like other mental health disorders, a number of factors could contribute to ADHD, such as:
What are the treatments for ADHD?
After a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, Dr. Flatow devises a customized treatment plan to determine the best course of action to manage your ADHD.
After obtaining a clear picture of your mental health, your Pacific Mind Health psychiatric provider might recommend:
It’s also helpful to get organized, manage distractions, and create a routine. Give yourself clear and realistic goals and a positive environment that encourages a healthy, happy mind. Be sure to get enough rest and good quality sleep.
For more information and support managing ADHD, call Pacific Mind Health or book online today.
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, impacts self-control, focus, and other important life skills. The brain disorder is characterized by an ongoing pattern of hyperactivity and impulsivity and inattention that interferes with daily life and normal functioning.
ADHD is more common in childhood and adolescence, but it can occur at any age. For children, it can affect how they function at school and in everyday life.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD affects people differently. People with ADHD may act impulsive and are often easily distracted and fidgety.
Symptoms of ADHD can include:
- Daydreaming
- Forgetfulness
- Excessive talking
- Unnecessary risk-taking and careless mistakes
Many people with ADHD may have trouble with certain skills and functions, such as:
- Flexible thinking
- Memory
- Managing emotions
- Organization, planning, and preparation
Some people might also have difficulty finishing a task, paying attention to details, following conversations or instructions, and resisting temptation.
What causes ADHD?
The cause of ADHD isn’t clear, but many experts have linked the condition to differences in brain anatomy. ADHD seems to run in families and if you have a family history of ADHD, you’re more likely to develop it.
Like other mental health disorders, a number of factors could contribute to ADHD, such as:
- Genetics
- Cigarette smoking, alcohol use, or drug use during pregnancy
- Low birth weight
- Brain injuries
- Premature delivery
- Exposure to environmental toxins in utero
- Exposure to environmental toxins at a young age, such as high levels of lead, may also play a part in the development of ADHD.
What are the treatments for ADHD?
After a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, Dr. Flatow devises a customized treatment plan to determine the best course of action to manage your ADHD.
After obtaining a clear picture of your mental health, your Pacific Mind Health psychiatric provider might recommend:
- Medications
- Psychotherapy (counseling or talk therapy) including cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavioral therapy for children
- Lifestyle changes, including optimal nutrition, regular appropriate exercise, and outdoor activities
- Mindfulness and stress management techniques
- Education and training about ADHD and management and coping strategies
It’s also helpful to get organized, manage distractions, and create a routine. Give yourself clear and realistic goals and a positive environment that encourages a healthy, happy mind. Be sure to get enough rest and good quality sleep.
For more information and support managing ADHD, call Pacific Mind Health or book online today.