Concentrating on one task can be a trying experience for anyone. For those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), honing in focus can feel impossible at times.
If you think that you or someone close to you could be suffering from ADHD, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone. Millions of people in the United States—4.4% adults and 11.0% children—live with this common neurodevelopmental condition, which affects attention levels, impulse control, memory, and focus.
Discover our comprehensive mental health treatment options at Northeast Health Services today by calling 508.794.8711, specifically tailored towards those who wish to embark on an ADHD-focused program for themselves or their loved ones.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a long-term brain condition characterized by inattention and hyperactivity. Errors linked with these issues can be disruptive within an educational environment, thus leading to ADHD diagnoses for many at the onset of their schooling careers. While this mental health issue often affects kids, it can follow individuals well into adulthood as well.
ADHD is a part of the spectrum known as neurodivergence, which includes autism, dyspraxia, dyslexia, and giftedness. People with ADHD may have different mental or neurological functioning than those who are considered “neurotypical.”It’s important to remember that having this disorder does not define someone’s character or worth. There are ways to manage it with treatment designed specifically for them. With an effective program in place, individuals can experience life-altering improvements.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
When it comes to diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mental health professionals will assess the clusters of symptoms that fall within three key categories. Of course, these signs and indications can be different from one individual to another:
- Inattention – These symptoms involve concentration and organizational skills
- Impulsivity – These symptoms have to do with risk-taking behaviors and overly emotional responses
- Hyperactivity – These symptoms center around excess energy and movement
For countless individuals, these signs are all too familiar. People with ADHD battle daily to accomplish tasks such as cleaning their homes and completing homework or work projects due to the influences of their disorder’s symptoms.
Types of ADHD
ADHD is generally categorized into three types according to the type of symptoms a person is experiencing:
- Type I – Inattentive type
- Type II – Hyperactive-impulsive type
- Type III – Combined type
Symptoms of ADHD in Children
Symptoms of ADHD in children include:
- Rapidly switching between toys during playtime
- Disengaged when interacting with adults
- Excessive talking or interrupting
- Difficulty organizing and keeping track of things
- Fidgeting, tapping, or otherwise struggling to stay still
- Extreme energy that never seems to run out
- Making simple or obvious mistakes in schoolwork
Each child is different and therefore exhibits unique symptoms. Only a physician can make a diagnosis.
Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
For adults, ADHD may take on different aspects. Symptoms of ADHD in adults include:
- Anxiety or inability to relax
- Struggling with or disliking tasks that require concentration or sitting still
- Poor executive function
- Alternating between feeling extremely empathetic and extremely apathetic toward others
- Inability to focus, even on hobbies or interests
- Difficulty completing detailed projects at work or school
- Restlessness and fidgeting
- Difficulty taking turns
- Excessive talking or interrupting
- Intense but short-lived emotions
- Forgetting regular daily tasks, like watering the plants or turning off the faucet
To be diagnosed with ADHD, five or more symptoms must be in evidence for six months or longer.
How Can ADHD Therapy in MA Help?
ADHD can be an overwhelming obstacle for people of all ages, but progress is possible with personalized therapy programs. These treatments supply individuals with the tools necessary to control their symptoms and uncover their potential. By emphasizing strengths and introducing tailored strategies, these courses equip those affected by this disorder with the capability to manage it effectively.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, mindfulness exercises, and lifestyle adjustments can all help individuals struggling with ADHD manage their worries more competently, heightening productivity in daily life. With the right treatment tailored to each individual’s needs, those managing ADHD may learn how to better navigate its symptoms and lead a happier and more successful life.
What Causes ADHD?
ADHD is a multifaceted mental health issue that can be caused by various genetic, biological, and environmental influences.
Genetic Causes
ADHD is likely influenced by genetic factors and people with a direct relative, such as a sibling or parent who has it, are at greater risk of having the condition. Additionally, men and boys tend to be diagnosed more often than women; this disparity may result from male symptoms being easier to recognize while female signs can frequently go unnoticed or be misattributed.
Biological Causes
Not only may individuals diagnosed with ADHD display distinct neurological configurations than those without the disorder, but there is also evidence that maternal drug or alcohol use and premature birth can contribute to one’s risk of developing it. Studies suggest that people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder might have larger or smaller brain regions in comparison to non-diagnosed peers, as well as discrepancies in certain neurotransmitters.
Environmental Causes
The atmosphere can have a major impact on whether or not a person is diagnosed with ADHD. Many environmental risk factors influence this diagnosis, such as maternal depression, an unstructured home environment, lack of supportive caregivers and/or exposure to abuse, financial hardship, inadequate sleep patterns, and brain injury during the formative years.
Understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for ADHD. However, the disruptive symptoms of this disorder can be effectively managed through a combination of therapy and other treatment approaches. ADHD treatment might include the following:
- Therapy – Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy grant people with ADHD an arsenal of beneficial strategies that can assist in constructing productive behaviors while simultaneously aiding them to alleviate the emotional impact of living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
- Medication – Stimulants and some antidepressants can assist in managing ADHD symptoms.
- Lifestyle changes – To regulate the effects of ADHD, it’s critical to embrace a healthy lifestyle that consists of regular physical activity, adequate sleep duration, and quality, plus working in an uninterrupted environment. All these habits combined with having balanced meals can help people significantly reduce their symptoms.
At Northeast Health Services, we are devoted to helping you or a family member cope with the complexities of ADHD. Our comprehensive treatment centers consist of compassionate mental health experts who offer a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere for anyone entering our office. We understand that having ADHD can be difficult, so we strive to provide an empathetic environment where individuals feel safe and accepted.
Benefits of Our ADHD Treatment
Gaining the commitment of ADHD children and adults to an organized management program is essential to ensure better functioning, ultimately leading to a superior quality of life. Such treatment provides secure and caring atmospheres to control symptoms like:
- Reducing disruptive behaviors
- Increasing self-esteem and feelings of accomplishment
- Developing coping skills to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD
- Increasing communication and social skills
- Learning positive habits that support mental health
- Improving academic or work performance
- Improving interpersonal relationships
- Promoting daily functioning
- Managing immediate and long-term goals
- Managing emotions, such as stress or anger
- Improving time management, organization, and impulse control
Starting your path to success is made easier when you have the right support team. With ADHD treatment, there are numerous advantages available. Fortunately, Northeast Health Services’ mental health professionals are ready and willing to help equip you for this journey.
Contact Northeast Health Services for ADHD Treatment in Massachusetts
We are devoted to offering the treatment needed for those living with ADHD in Massachusetts. Our teams of caring and knowledgeable professionals collaborate closely together in providing personalized evaluations and care plans that will give you back control over your life. We aspire to provide the necessary support so that lasting changes can be achieved in a healthier lifestyle.
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.