ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes behavior and emotional regulation difficulties that can persist into adulthood. If you find life tough because of ADHD, visit Eka Oyeka, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, and her team at Harmonica Psychiatry in McKinney, Texas. They provide holistic care for patients affected by ADHD that help them achieve their goals and enjoy a better quality of life. Call the Harmonica Psychiatry office or request a consultation online today to learn more about the benefits of expert ADHD therapy.

What is ADHD?

ADHD typically develops in early childhood, before age 12. It’s best known for affecting children’s behavior at home and school but often continues to present challenges in adult life.

People with ADHD struggle to manage behaviors in one or more areas — attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Inattentiveness presents with symptoms such as:

• Frequent daydreaming
• Lack of focus
• Forgetfulness
• Difficulty with organization
• Poor time-keeping
• Dislike of focused tasks
• Frequently losing things
• Being easily distracted
• Not hearing when spoken to

Hyperactivity causes persistent restlessness and excessive energy. You probably hate sitting still, fidget continually, and find waiting intolerable. You might feel irritable and angry and have habits like interrupting and talking over people.

Impulsivity causes reckless behaviors and is likely to get you into trouble. You act without considering the consequences, even when they could endanger you or others.

Many people have primarily inattentive ADHD or primarily hyperactive/impulsive ADHD, but you could have any combination of symptoms.

Why have I got ADHD?

The cause of ADHD is unclear, but risk factors include:

• Low birth weight
• Brain injuries
• Tobacco smoke or alcohol exposure during pregnancy
• Exposure to environmental toxins like lead in early childhood

There’s likely a genetic component to ADHD, as the condition often affects several members of the same family.

Although ADHD is incurable, many people find their symptoms lessen or change as they age, becoming easier to manage. However, if you continue to struggle because of ADHD, you can benefit from Harmonica Psychiatry’s expert treatment for patients aged 16 and over.

What help is available for people with ADHD?

Several treatments are available for people with ADHD. The Harmonica Psychiatry team typically begins with medication and behavioral therapy.

Stimulant medicines boost activity in the areas of your brain controlling behavior and reducing unwanted actions and reactions. Nonstimulants are available for patients who can’t tolerate stimulants or don’t find them effective. If you also have depression or anxiety, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs can help.

Behavioral therapy teaches you to recognize the thoughts that trigger unhelpful behaviors and react differently. You also learn coping mechanisms that you use when facing challenges that usually cause problems in daily life. You may also benefit from therapies that help you through difficult experiences like grief or trauma.

Call Harmonica Psychiatry today or schedule a consultation online to learn more about the benefits of expert ADHD treatment.