How do I control my ADHD?

Getting professional help from a therapist who specializes in ADHD can be key to feeling better. A skilled therapist can help you deal with some of the underlying shame that your ADHD symptoms may have caused and learn healthy coping skills for moving forward. For many, adding medication like a stimulant can greatly improve your ability to concentrate, helping you gain a greater sense of control over your ADHD.

What is the 20-minute rule for ADHD?

The 20-minute rule for ADHD involves setting a time for 20 minutes to see how much of a task you can get done in that time frame, then you can take a break or be done. Many people with ADHD find it helpful to have a “deadline” or a time limit to help them feel motivated, so using this method can help them stay on track.

At what age does ADHD peak?

ADHD is typically diagnosed around age six, though if symptoms are severe the median age of diagnosis lowers to age four. This correlates to starting school, as many children get a diagnosis after not being able to sit still or focus in the classroom. About one-third of children who receive an ADHD diagnosis retain it in adulthood.

What triggers can make ADHD worse?

Common triggers of ADHD symptoms can include: Not getting enough exercise or movement Times of excessive stress Poor sleep and diet Shifts in hormones Living in an untidy home or workspace Other unaddressed mental health concerns, like anxiety or depression

ADHD Therapy & Treatment in Massachusetts

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Millions of people in the United States, over 4% of adults and 11% of children, live with ADHD, which can impact attention levels, impulse control, and memory. Thankfully, targeted treatments like medication and behavioral therapy can make a tangible difference in ADHD symptoms.

Northeast Health Services offers comprehensive ADHD therapy in Massachusetts, as well as access to medication and other treatment options. Call 508.794.8711 or fill out a quick form to get started and find relief.

Signs & Symptoms of ADHD

ADHD is marked by lack of concentration, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Children often receive ADHD diagnoses during their time in school, as these behaviors can cause disruptions in the classroom. People with ADHD may struggle to accomplish daily tasks such as cleaning their homes and completing homework or work projects.

Note that symptoms of ADHD will vary and only a trained professional like a doctor or mental health specialist can make a formal diagnosis.

Symptoms of ADHD in Children & Teens

Symptoms of ADHD in children and teens can include:

Having trouble staying focused on tasks or while playing
Seem to not listen and be disengaged when talking to adults
Excessive talking or interrupting
Emotional dysregulation, reacting strongly to small events
Difficulty organizing and keeping track of things
Forgetting to do daily activities like chores
Struggling to stay still, fidgeting or squirming
Extreme energy that never seems to run out
Having trouble playing or doing any activity quietly
Making simple or obvious mistakes in schoolwork

Symptoms of ADHD in Adults

Many people aren’t diagnosed with ADHD until adulthood, especially women with a more inattentive type. To be diagnosed with ADHD, five or more symptoms must be evident for six months or longer.

Symptoms of ADHD in adults can include:

Impulsivity
Disorganization and difficulty prioritizing
Poor time management
Issues focusing on a task
Inability to multitask
Excessive restlessness or activity
Lower tolerance to frustration
Mood swings
Issues following through on tasks
Anxiety or inability to relax

Types of ADHD

Experts have split ADHD into separate types depending on whether someone has more issues with attention or with excessive energy:

Type I – Inattentive type: Difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, issues with executive function, but without hyperactive behavior.
Type II – Hyperactive-impulsive type: The need for constant movement, excessive talking, and struggles with self-control.
Type III – Combined type: Demonstrates six or more symptoms of both hyperactivity and inattention.

Are you or a loved one struggling with symptoms of ADHD?

Get ADHD treatment in Massachusetts with a tailored, empathetic care program. Our teams of mental health experts can help you get back on track through therapy, medication, or both.

What Causes ADHD?

ADHD is a multifaceted mental health issue that can be caused by various genetic, biological, and environmental influences.

Genetics: People with a direct relative who have ADHD are at greater risk for developing it.
Biology: ADHD brains have certain regions that can be smaller than neurotypical brains. They also deal with differences in how they process certain brain chemicals, like dopamine, and have a hard time processing certain sensory inputs.
Environmental factors: Someone’s environment can impact whether or not they end up developing ADHD, such as maternal depression, lack of supportive care in childhood, and brain injury during formative years.

Treatment for ADHD

There is no known “cure” for ADHD. However, the disruptive symptoms of this disorder can be effectively managed through a combination of therapy, medication (if deemed appropriate), and lifestyle changes.

Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other behavioral therapies can help those with ADHD adopt helpful strategies and skills to manage their ADHD symptoms, like support for organizational symptoms, finding tools to help with focus, and breaking tasks down into manageable steps to feel less overwhelming. CBT can help those with ADHD cope with the emotional impact of the disorder as well.

Other mindfulness-based therapies can teach those with ADHD learn to better listen to their bodies’ cues and tune into their emotions. Our therapists at NEHS will work with you to create a tailored plan based on your symptoms and what you want to work on, bringing in multiple therapy approaches to target your exact needs.

Medication

Our psychiatric providers will work with you to determine if medication could be a good fit for you, as symptoms can vary and each body responds differently to meds. They may prescribe a stimulant like Ritalin or Adderall for ADHD symptoms, which work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Alternatively, antidepressants may be prescribed alone or in combination with a stimulant.

Everyone’s body responds differently to medication, and it can take a bit to get medication and dosage completely dialed in. Our psychiatry providers will support you over the long term to find what will work best for you.

Lifestyle Changes

Healthy habits like getting regular exercise, enough sleep, and quality nutrition have been found to help regulate the symptoms of ADHD. In addition, setting up other supports for yourself, like figuring out appropriate organization for your home and work necessities, utilizing task management tools, and body doubling, can greatly improve your daily functioning.

What’s the Outlook for Someone With ADHD?

ADHD typically responds really well to treatment, with many people reporting significant decline in symptoms if they stick with medication and therapy. However, factors like being bullied, alcohol usage, and longer internet usage contribute to worsened symptoms, even with treatments. Additionally, if ADHD goes undiagnosed or untreated, symptoms can worsen over time.

The Benefits of Seeking ADHD Relief at NEHS

Starting your path to success is much easier when you have the right support team. At Northeast Health Services, we are devoted to helping clients all over Massachusetts find ADHD treatment. Our compassionate mental health experts offer a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere for anyone entering our office.

Here are some of the benefits you’ll find when you seek ADHD treatment at NEHS:

Comprehensive insurance coverage means your out-of-pocket costs could be quite low. We’re in-network with most major plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
We have dozens of conveniently located clinics across Massachusetts, and we also offer telehealth services for those needing online ADHD treatment.
Our dedicated team of mental health experts develop tailored care plans for every client, collaborating to find you the best combination of treatments.
Our therapists can help you increase self-esteem, share tools for time management and organization, teach skills to improve your relationships, and set immediate and long-term goals

Finding ADHD Treatment at Northeast Health Services

We are devoted to offering comprehensive treatments for those living with ADHD in Boston, Springfield, and around Massachusetts, through in-person and online care. Our teams of caring and knowledgeable professionals collaborate closely together in providing personalized evaluations and care plans.

We are committed to providing a safe, comfortable atmosphere conducive to successful achievement. Contact us at 508.794.8711 today to find out more about the services we offer in managing ADHD, or fill out a brief form to schedule your first appointment.

FAQs About ADHD

How do I control my ADHD?
Getting professional help from a therapist who specializes in ADHD can be key to feeling better. A skilled therapist can help you deal with some of the underlying shame that your ADHD symptoms may have caused and learn healthy coping skills for moving forward. For many, adding medication like a stimulant can greatly improve your ability to concentrate, helping you gain a greater sense of control over your ADHD.
What is the 20-minute rule for ADHD?
The 20-minute rule for ADHD involves setting a time for 20 minutes to see how much of a task you can get done in that time frame, then you can take a break or be done. Many people with ADHD find it helpful to have a “deadline” or a time limit to help them feel motivated, so using this method can help them stay on track.
At what age does ADHD peak?
ADHD is typically diagnosed around age six, though if symptoms are severe the median age of diagnosis lowers to age four. This correlates to starting school, as many children get a diagnosis after not being able to sit still or focus in the classroom. About one-third of children who receive an ADHD diagnosis retain it in adulthood.
What triggers can make ADHD worse?
Common triggers of ADHD symptoms can include:
- Not getting enough exercise or movement
- Times of excessive stress
- Poor sleep and diet
- Shifts in hormones
- Living in an untidy home or workspace
- Other unaddressed mental health concerns, like anxiety or depression

Sources:

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ADHD

Discover our comprehensive mental health treatment options specifically tailored towards those who wish to embark on ADHD treatment for themselves or their loved ones.