ADHD
Behavioral Health & Recovery located in Washington, DC
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is best known as a childhood condition, but the challenges persist throughout adulthood for an estimated one-third of children. Gregory Obiwuma, DNP, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BSN, RN, and the team at New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC in Washington, DC, diagnose and treat ADHD in people of all ages, helping them overcome their challenges and find success at school, work, and home. Call the office or use online booking today to schedule a telehealth or in-person appointment, whether for an ADHD assessment or to start treatment.
ADHD is a developmental disability that begins in childhood. Though the exact cause remains unknown, there’s no doubt that ADHD is a brain disorder. Certain brain structures and nerve networks involved in planning, attention, and making decisions work differently in people with ADHD, leading to an array of challenges and symptoms.
Children (and adults) sometimes have a hard time paying attention, or they become hyperactive. These typical behaviors are different from ADHD.
ADHD symptoms occur regularly, and they’re severe enough to cause problems in school, result in poor performance, disrupt family life, and make it hard to build friendships.
The symptoms you or your child experience depend on whether you have inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined ADHD:
This type causes symptoms such as:
You or your child may frequently lose or misplace essential items, like homework assignments and house keys.
The symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD include:
Many people with ADHD struggle to control their emotions, leading to unexpected outbursts that seem out of place for the situation.
People with combined ADHD have some symptoms of both types.
This type may also be called "undefined ADHD" or "unspecified ADHD." This diagnosis is indicated when you experience clear symptoms or cognitive deficits but don't meet the official symptom profile of the previously discussed subcategories. Your clinician may diagnose you in the "undifferentiated" category to better reflect your presentation and therapeutic needs.
ADHD treatment often begins with medications that balance brain chemicals, boosting attention and reducing hyperactivity. Stimulant medications are the gold standard. However, your New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC provider can also suggest non-stimulant options.
Most people also find that behavioral therapy significantly improves their ability to function in daily life. For example, children and adults may need to improve their socialization skills, learn how to stay organized, and manage their emotions.
Your therapist can also recommend strategies you can implement at home to support your child’s efforts. They may also suggest dietary changes to improve brain function and reduce hyperactivity.
New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC diagnoses and treats ADHD in people of all ages. To learn more, call the office today or connect online to request an evaluation.