ADHD Evaluation and Treatment

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a mental health condition that causes a variety of symptoms related to a patient’s concentration and behavior. ADHD is most often diagnosed in children but can also occur in adults of both genders, especially if diagnosed and untreated during childhood. ADHD affects a person’s ability to retain information, focus, and concentrate. Patients with ADHD often have issues with controlling their behavior and paying attention. The condition occurs in both genders, although women sometimes present with different symptoms than men. Young women often go undiagnosed until early adulthood because they dismiss symptoms such as disorganization and poor attention, as something they are doing wrong instead of signs of an illness. There are three forms of ADHD: predominately inattentive, predominately hyperactive/impulsive, and a combination.

How Do the Forms of ADHD Differ?

There are many symptoms associated with the different forms of the disorder. The symptoms listed below characterize the different diagnosis, but are not a complete list.

How Is ADHD Treated?

Your psychiatric provider will develop an individualized treatment plan based on your symptoms, medical history, clinical evaluation, and specific needs. Evaluation may include a detailed history and standardized questionnaires completed by the patient and, when appropriate, individuals close to the patient.

Treatment options may include medication, psychotherapy, behavioral strategies, or a combination of approaches. When medication is clinically appropriate, your psychiatric provider will discuss available options, including potential benefits and risks, and monitor your response to treatment over time.

Neurocognitive or Neuropsychological Testing

Neurocognitive and neuropsychological testing can provide valuable information about cognitive functioning, behavior, and mental health. When clinically appropriate, these assessment tools may help your provider better understand your individual needs and inform treatment decisions.