ADD and ADHD are names for attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, respectively. ADD is a condition that affects your memory use and attention while ADHD is a condition when people are inattentive and are prone to hyperactivity and impulsivity. Oftentimes, you are forgetful about the things that a teacher or supervisor specifically wanted you to remember. Or maybe you do things often on a whim.
Is ADD or ADHD interfering with your life?
When you think about seeking assistance for ADD or ADHD, you may very well think about medication. Psychiatry may or may not be part of your ADD or ADHD treatment plan. Still, individual therapy can also be extremely helpful.
For both adults and children, our experienced therapists will help you develop better organizational skills, create workable defenses to external stimuli and teach you methods for working through distractions.
An integrated ADD or ADHD treatment plan might also include mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and possibly medication.
How is ADD or ADHD diagnosed in children?
ADD and ADHD are the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorders in children 18 and younger. Depending on your child’s specific condition, ADD and ADHD can be diagnosed as early as pre-school.
While children are often naturally boisterous, the signs of ADD and ADHD generally include extreme levels of hyperactivity, impulsiveness and/or inattention. Frequently, symptoms can increase as your child gets older, and finds him or herself with more formal schoolwork and external distractions.
While many of the causes can be biological in nature, a formal ADD or ADHD treatment plan will also cover any emotional issues that derive from living with the condition.
I’m an adult and I think I have ADD or ADHD. What about treatment for people like me?
ADD and ADHD can be more difficult to diagnose in adults. Following is a list of possible symptoms, although these may also be signs of other conditions:
- Angry outbursts
- Difficulties starting a task
- Difficulties prioritizing issues
- Difficulty following a sequence of tasks to completion
- Lateness
- Piles of things, unorganized and incomplete
- Poor listening skills
- Reckless driving and traffic accidents
- Recurring marital or relationship challenges
- Restlessness or trouble relaxing
- Trouble getting organized
- Very easily distracted
If you identify with any of these, please reach out and set up an appointment with one of our highly trained clinicians. We’re here to help!
