ADHD

What causes ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic mental health disorder that often starts in childhood, then continues causing problems into adulthood. ADHD leads to a combination of problems that affect your ability to pay attention, learn, and focus. While the exact cause of ADHD isn’t known, medical experts believe that the following factors play a role:

• A family history of ADHD
• Lead exposure
• Premature birth
• Central nervous system development issues
• Maternal drug, cigarette, or alcohol use during pregnancy

While no cure exists for ADHD, being able to recognize symptoms and get treatment started early on, can help minimize issues.

Can I tell if I have ADHD?

Oftentimes, yes. With children, parents usually notice that their child is inattentive. In some cases, children are also hyperactive and impulsive. During teenage years and into adulthood, you may experience:

• Difficulty focusing on a task
• Extreme disorganization
• Frequent mood swings
• Problems coping with stress
• Excessive activity or restlessness

Generally, signs and symptoms of ADHD start to diminish with age. In some cases though, adults continue having major issues with ADHD that can affect their quality of life.

How is ADHD treated?

Without proper treatment, ADHD can cause unstable relationships and low self-esteem. It’s also common to experience poor school performance, which can linger on and affect work performance later on in life. Treating ADHD often involves taking prescription medications that work to alleviate symptoms. You may benefit from:

• Psychostimulants to balance neurotransmitters
• Non-stimulants (such as Strattera, Wellbutrin)
• Certain types of antidepressants to stabilize moods
• Anti-anxiety medications to minimize issues with anxiety

Our psychiatric nurse practitioners at Intrepid Mental Wellness have extensive training in treating ADHD with the latest prescriptions available. Many clients who have ADHD benefit from combining medication with cognitive behavioral therapy, or structured counseling. If needed, we can work with your psychologist, therapist, or school counselor to ensure you’re progressing through therapy and that your medication is working for you.

Because ADHD is complex, learning lifestyle changes to help keep you focused and organized are essential. At Intrepid Mental Wellness, you learn about remedies — like how to write and follow lists — that can help you complete tasks and perform better at school or work. Your treatment plan is entirely tailored to suit your needs.

Schedule your ADHD appointment at Intrepid Mental Wellness by submitting a "contact us" inquiry, or by calling the clinic.