Child and Adult ADHD
Child ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, is a common mental health disorder in children. This condition impacts a child in many ways, including the ability to be successful in school, social relationships and sports.
While the signs of ADHD usually appear before the age of seven, it can be difficult to tell the difference between “normal kid behavior” and ADHD. Hallmarks of ADHD include three primary characteristics: hyperactivity, or in ability to sit still, inattention, and impulsivity, or lack of control. Most children display these types of behavior from time to time but when it starts to impact activities of daily living across the board – school, play, and home life, it may be time to consider an evaluation by an ADHD specialist.
ADHD shows itself in many ways and children with this disorder may experience some common signs to varying degrees. These include:
- Inability to stay focused or concentrate
- Inability to sit still
- Inattention
- Seems not to listen
- Has problems following directions
- Is disorganized and has problems planning ahead
- Loses homework, toys, books, and clothing with regularity
- Quick temper and inability to keep emotions in check
- Talk excessively
- Acts without forethought
- Interrupts conversations
An evaluation by an ADHD specialist will help to rule out other conditions that may be contributing to your child’s behavior. Learning disabilities, behavioral disorders, medical conditions, and psychological disorders may also be the source of symptoms that appear to be ADHD.
At Healthwise, our ADHD therapy approaches include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or talk therapy
- Play therapy
- Parenting skills training
- Social skills training
- Family therapy
- Lifestyle changes
- Nutrition counseling
- Medications
- Support groups
Our team works with other members of the care team that includes pediatricians or primary care providers, psychiatrists, teachers, social workers, tutors, and others as necessary.
Adult ADHD
Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as adult ADHD, is not unlike child ADHD. It is likely that it began in childhood and remained unrecognized and untreated until adulthood.
Adults with ADHD experience a host of symptoms, the hallmarks of which are similar to child ADHD: impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Adults with ADHD may have a history of poor work and academic performance, substance abuse, poor physical or mental health, unstable relationships, poor self-image, and many other problems.
Symptoms of adult ADHD appear to dampen somewhat with age, but are similar to those of children. Symptoms can vary person to person.
- Inability to stay focused or concentrate
- Restlessness or excessive activity
- Inattention
- Seems not to listen
- Mood swings
- Has problems following directions
- Is disorganized
- Problems planning ahead
- Poor time management skills
- Loses items with regularity
- Quick temper and inability to keep emotions in check
- Talk excessively
- Acts without forethought
- Interrupts conversations
Adult ADHD may co-exist with other mental health disorders. Careful evaluation by a mental health specialist is critical to assure positive outcomes. Other disorders may include: anxiety disorders; mood disorders such as depression; learning disabilities; and addiction.
Treatment approaches are similar to child ADHD. Our Healthwise team is prepared to help and offers these adult ADHD therapies:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or talk therapy
- Problem solving therapy
- Social skills training
- Marriage and family therapy
- Lifestyle changes
- Nutrition counseling
- Medications
- Support groups
For more information about counseling services for Child and Adult ADHD issues in Maple Grove, please contact us.
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Our mind-body studio brings an innovative approach to healthcare. One that welcomes an exploration of other complimentary modalities for improving emotional health and well-being.
As we recognize that for some "getting out of our head" can be a challenge we also understand doing just that can help us to make that vital connection with ourselves. A connection that can often result in creating the real and deep changes we crave.
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