Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by the inability to pay attention for sustained periods and the impulse to move around and fidget. ADHD is a vital genetic component affecting the sufferer’s ability to stay focused, remember things, stay organized, and learn from their mistakes. The disorder can manifest in childhood and stretch into adolescence and adulthood. At Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group, we are experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD and other mental illnesses. Our staff of caring nurse practitioners specializes in psychiatry and considers patients' wishes when forming a treatment plan. We schedule regular follow-up exams where you can ask questions and share any concerns about your medication or dosage.

ADHD is not just a childhood disorder. It also impacts adults in various ways, such as job stability, relationships, and continued education, which can be jeopardized because of the impulsivity and negative moods often accompanying ADHD. Adults have unique needs, and our coaching program helps create new ways of processing and responding to the world that use your ADHD as a strength.

ADHD Facts and Statistics

ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed mental illness in children. 4.4% of adults in the US have ADHD, but fewer than 20% get professional help. 41.3% of adult ADHD cases are considered severe. The disorder affects more men than women; 12.9% of men and 4.9% of women are diagnosed with ADHD in their lifetime. Adults with ADHD may be chronically late to events, are often disorganized, and could have difficulty sticking to plans and staying gainfully employed. Sometimes, they have trouble staying in relationships and may suffer from addiction and low self-esteem.

What Causes ADHD?

ADHD is a syndrome of the brain caused by the sufferer’s abnormal brain chemistry, brain structure, and the connectivity of their neurons. This comes down mostly to genetics. Individuals have no control over the development of ADHD, but they can learn to manage it effectively with treatment.

Symptoms of ADHD

While ADHD can manifest as extreme hyperactivity in children, its symptoms in adults include:

• Chronic Lateness

• Forgetfulness

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Low Self-Esteem

• Performance Issues at Work

• Trouble Controlling Anger

• Poor Impulse Control

• Substance Abuse or Addiction

• Disorganization

• Procrastination

• Easily Frustrated

• Chronic Boredom

• Trouble Concentrating when reading.

• Mood Swings 

People with ADHD might seem not to be listening when you speak to them. They could have trouble waiting in long lines without feeling restless or irritable. Sometimes, it seems as though they cannot entertain or occupy themselves. Again, the individual has no control over these symptoms. ADHD is not a character flaw but an illness requiring medical intervention.

ADHD Treatments Options

ADHD is treated with medication, psychotherapy, coaching, and skills training. As psychiatric nurse practitioners, the Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group team has years of experience managing the medical side of ADHD treatment.

Some of the most commonly used medications are central nervous system stimulants. They increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improves the patient’s ability to stay focused and on task by increasing brain activity in the area of the brain associated with attentiveness.

Common stimulant ADHD medications include:

• Methylphenidates, like Ritalin

• Amphetamines, like Adzenys or Dyanavel

• Mixed amphetamine salts, such as Adderall

Non-stimulant medications are also available for patients who experience side effects from the stimulants. Non-stimulant drugs are also used to treat ADHD. Common such drugs include:

• Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera.

• Bupropion, also known as Wellbutrin.

• Viloxazine, also known as Qelbree

Because different individuals react differently to various medications, along with stimulants, many other types of medication may be used to treat ADHD. The medicine that a provider chooses will be based on a patient’s symptoms and medical history.

While not yet FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD, TMS has also been used successfully to treat ADHD in cases where traditional medication has failed. TMS has shown particular success in the treatment of patients who also suffer from depression or anxiety.

Our team will monitor your progress on the prescribed medications, adjust the dose, or try a different medicine if needed. The goal is to have you feeling like yourself, only more focused and organized. We can also recommend counselors and therapists who specialize in treating ADHD. 

Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group: Your Source for ADHD Treatment

If you think you might have ADHD, or if you have a loved one who is, please call us right away. You can also use our online form to schedule an evaluation. Once we’ve learned more about you and made a diagnosis, we can begin treatment immediately. You don’t need to suffer from ADHD alone. We understand the challenges it brings and will help you regain control of your life.