ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, makes it difficult for children and adults to be calm, focus on specific tasks, and learn. Board-certified adult and child psychiatrist Sarah Gatumu, MD, of New Direction Functional Psychiatry in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, can diagnose patients with ADHD and offer various effective treatment options. With the proper treatment, patients can sit still, concentrate, and be more productive. Contact the practice to learn more about ADHD testing and treatment options.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a disorder that causes a combination of problems, including impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, and trouble concentrating. This disorder affects millions of children and often continues throughout the person’s life. For some people, ADHD may not be discovered until adulthood.

What causes ADHD?

Researchers don’t precisely know what causes ADHD. However, they believe it comes from a combination of factors: development, environment, and genetics. Several risk factors for ADHD have been identified, including:

• Premature birth
• Maternal drug use during pregnancy
• Exposure to certain toxins
• Having blood relatives with ADHD

Though these factors can increase your risk of ADHD, they don’t mean you’ll have it. Your provider can address these factors with you during your comprehensive evaluation. 

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

If you have ADHD, you’ll notice a variety of symptoms. Some of the problems you may experience include:

• Inability to pay attention
• Making careless mistakes
• Losing important items frequently
• Being distracted easily
• Needing to move constantly
• Talking too much
• Having trouble waiting for a turn

Everyone experiences some of these symptoms on occasion, but if you have ADHD, these symptoms will continue for at least six months, and they’ll significantly affect your life.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

There are several means to diagnose ADHD, and the practice offers testing services. Although no single test can conclusively confirm or rule out ADHD, a thorough evaluation can help the team reach the most accurate diagnosis possible. 

During this assessment, the staff at New Direction Functional Psychiatry will consider your medical history, habits, and abilities to perform specific tasks. In most cases, though, the ADHD testing process won’t be quick; lengthy testing is usually required to figure out whether ADHD is the cause of your or your loved one’s problems.

What treatments are available?

One of the most common treatments prescribed to people with ADHD is medication. These drugs balance levels of certain chemicals in the brain so that you won’t have as many ADHD symptoms. However, these medications can cause potentially severe side effects, so it’s essential for you to discuss all the options with your practitioner and weigh everything carefully.

In addition to medication, you may benefit from other treatment options if you have ADHD, including:

• Psychotherapy
• Family therapy
• Behavioral therapy

These therapies may be used on their own or in combination with medication.

To book an appointment with New Direction Functional Psychiatry, call the office or book online today.