ADHD

Struggling to pay attention, focus, and sit still are hallmarks of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a condition that can become debilitating. At Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine in New York City, the experienced primary care specialists diagnose and treat ADHD in children, teenagers, and adults. Schedule a telehealth evaluation by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a mental health concern affecting one’s ability to focus and sit still for long periods. Left untreated, it can affect productivity at work and school, as well as relationships with others. If ADHD affects you or your child, see the experts at Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine. The practice offers effective solutions that can help you regain focus and thrive.

What are common symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD can cause the following symptoms:

• Impulsive behavior patterns
• Interrupting others
• Difficulty taking turns
• Trouble paying attention
• Problems sitting still
• Fidgeting
• Making careless mistakes
• Easily losing or forgetting items
• Always being on the go
• Low self-esteem
• Poor grades in school
• Challenges in social situations
• Disorganization
• Getting distracted easily
• Daydreaming

While being distracted is common among people with ADHD, these individuals often focus well (hyperfocus) when participating in things they truly enjoy.

What can increase the risk of ADHD?

While the precise cause of ADHD remains unknown, researchers have found that risk factors can include:

• Family history of ADHD
• Toxin exposure during development
• Brain changes
• Low birth weight
• Preterm (premature) birth

People with ADHD might be more prone to depression, anxiety, accidents, or a substance use disorder (SUD). 

How does my provider diagnose ADHD?

Your Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine specialist completes a comprehensive psychiatric assessment using DSM-5 criteria to establish if you or a loved one has ADHD. They ask about habits, behaviors, thoughts, moods, emotions, and lifestyle to determine the best ways to manage ADHD symptoms.

What are the treatments for ADHD?

Your Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine specialist will recommend one or more of the following treatments for ADHD:

• Medication management 
• Neurofeedback training
• Parental training
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Psychotherapy (also called talk therapy)
• Social skills training
• Extra support at school and/or work
• Lifestyle adjustments

It’s helpful to make to-do lists, create a routine, keep a calendar, and adopt healthy habits. Eat nutritious foods, stay active, minimize stress, and get plenty of sleep. Having a strong social support system is important too.

Your Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine provider tailors an ADHD treatment plan to your needs and follows up to ensure that it’s effective. Contact them anytime with questions. 

Schedule a telehealth ADHD evaluation at Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.