ADHD

What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. It’s a common neurodevelopmental condition that makes it harder for children to focus, sit still, and control their impulses.

While many children have moments when they’re distracted or overly energetic, children with ADHD deal with these challenges every day in a way that affects their school, home, and social life.

The exact cause of ADHD isn’t fully known, but it tends to run in families. It’s not a result of bad parenting, too much sugar, or watching too much TV. Brain differences, genetics, and even early birth complications can play a role.

ADHD is commonly seen and diagnosed in children, yet it can continue into adulthood.

What signs indicate a child has ADHD?

The a1 Family Psychiatry team looks for three main types of symptoms when assessing children for ADHD:

Inattention

Trouble focusing, making careless mistakes, or not finishing tasks.

Hyperactivity

Fidgeting, running around at the wrong times, or nonstop talking.

Impulsivity

Blurting out answers, interrupting others, or acting without thinking.

Each child is different. Some may have more problems with attention, others struggle with hyperactivity or impulsivity, and many have all three. In addition, children affected by ADHD often have difficulty with emotional regulation.

ADHD sometimes improves in adulthood, or the problems it causes can change over time. The a1 Family Psychiatry team also offers comprehensive support for people with adult ADHD.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

The a1 Family Psychiatry team performs thorough ADHD testing to diagnose the condition, but there’s no simple lab test. Instead, the team takes time to understand a child’s behavior through conversations, questionnaires, and reports from parents, teachers, and caregivers.

They also check for other conditions that may look like ADHD, such as anxiety, adjustment disorder, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or learning disorders.

Is there a treatment for ADHD?

ADHD treatment usually includes a mix of approaches. Behavior therapy helps children build better habits and learn how to manage their actions, while parent coaching supports families in creating routines and setting clear expectations.

Medication can also help many children focus better and feel more in control. The most common kind of medication given to children with ADHD is stimulants, which help with focus.

If your child’s behavior makes everyday life harder for them or your family, it’s a good time to talk to a specialist who can help you understand what’s going on and what steps to take next.

Call a1 Family Psychiatry to arrange an expert ADHD assessment or book an in-person or telemedicine appointment online today.