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By Deena Shelton, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Mainstream Mental Health, Atchison, KS
At Mainstream Mental Health, we understand that Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) does not look the same in every individual or even at every stage of life. Our approach embraces every dimension of your well-being, providing holistic care that aligns with your personal health journey. Let’s explore how ADHD presents in children and adults, offering insight and understanding to support those affected by the condition.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized care.
ADHD in Children: Early Signs and Symptoms
ADHD is often first identified in children with behaviors that are more intense than typical developmental activities. The American Psychiatric Association outlines several symptoms in the DSM-5, crucial for diagnosing ADHD in younger populations:
Inattention: This can appear as a child being easily distracted, missing details, forgetting things, and frequently switching from one activity to another.
Hyperactivity: Children may seem to be constantly in motion, unable to sit still during dinner, school, and story time.
Impulsivity: This may involve hasty decisions that have a high potential for harm or immediate gratification-seeking behaviors.
These symptoms need to be present in multiple settings (e.g., at home and school) and cause significant impairment to daily functioning.
Recognizing ADHD in Adults
ADHD can persist into adulthood, often with less noticeable symptoms compared to those in childhood. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that adult ADHD manifests differently, focusing more on internal symptoms rather than overt hyperactivity:
Chronic Disorganization: Managing daily responsibilities such as bill payments, job responsibilities, and household tasks can be challenging.
Inattention: This might mean trouble focusing on tasks at work, frequently losing items, or forgetting meetings and appointments.
Control Difficulties: Adults might exhibit poor self-control in social, work, or academic settings.
It’s essential to recognize that these symptoms can lead to significant stress, affecting social, academic, and occupational achievement.
Managing ADHD: A Holistic Approach
At Mainstream Mental Health, we focus on a comprehensive, integrative treatment plan that considers all aspects of an individual's lifestyle and health:
Medication Management:
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the prescription and management of medication to help control symptoms effectively, tailored to each individual’s needs.
Lifestyle Coaching and Support:
Encouraging a structured routine can be beneficial. We help individuals design a lifestyle that includes sufficient physical activity, proper nutrition, and adequate rest, which can significantly impact the management of ADHD symptoms.
Patient Education and Self-Management:
Educating patients and families about ADHD is crucial. Understanding the disorder helps in managing expectations and supports better management strategies tailored to personal or family needs.
Professional Expertise and Empathy at the Core
As the leader of Mainstream Mental Health, I bring a blend of professional expertise and personal empathy to our treatment approaches. We believe in respecting each individual's story and providing support in a non-judgmental environment. Our goal is to empower our patients, helping them to thrive despite the challenges of ADHD.
Conclusion: Your Partner in ADHD Management
Whether you are adjusting to a new diagnosis or have been managing ADHD for years, at Mainstream Mental Health, we are here to support you. If you or someone you love is struggling with ADHD, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can craft a management plan that respects your unique needs and enhances your ability to succeed and enjoy a fulfilling life.
For more details or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or contact our office at Mainstream Mental Health. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of ADHD with compassionate and comprehensive care.
References:
American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: ADHD in Adults.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized care.
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