ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
By: Julia Keys
ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a mental condition that is characterized by inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive behavior. ADHD is usually diagnosed in elementary school, but symptoms can appear as early as three years old. About four to five percent of children have ADHD and about 60 percent of these children carry their symptoms into adulthood. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, one must have had symptoms present before the age of 12. People with ADHD oftentimes have trouble paying attention or maintaining a regular level of activity, which can cause them to be disorganized or experience difficulty at work, school, and in relationships. Those with ADHD can sometimes feel anxious or depressed if their symptoms cause dysfunction in their life.
Symptoms of Inattention:
- Making careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or during other activities
- Having problems sustaining attention during conversations, lectures, reading, etc.
- Not seeming to listen when spoken to directly
- Having problems organizing tasks and activities; poor time management and oftentimes messy work/living spaces
- Frequent loss of necessary items such as keys, school supplies, wallets etc.
- Forgetfulness
Symptoms of Hyperactivity-Impulsivity:
- Frequent fidgeting and squirming
- Leaving seats in situation when staying seated is expected
- Restlessness
- Trouble engaging in hobbies quietly
- Rapid nonstop speech
- Speaking without waiting for a turn in the conversation
- Having trouble waiting for one’s turn
- Interrupts others
Symptoms of ADHD are oftentimes greatly improved use of medication. Medications prescribed by psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners such as stimulants, help those with ADHD focus their thoughts and reduce hyperactivity. In addition to medication, psychotherapy is oftentimes helpful for those with ADHD cope with every day struggles presented by the disorder.
If you or a loved one is struggling with ADHD, do not hesitate to seek help by contacting Arista Counseling & Psychotherapy, located in New York and New Jersey to speak to licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners or psychotherapists. To contact the office in Paramus NJ, call (201) 368-3700. To contact the office in Manhattan, call (212) 722-1920. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/ .
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/200703/adhd-always-the-go
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml
Source for Picture:
By Lauren Hernandez
CounselingRx 
