ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects thinking and behavior. When left undiagnosed and untreated, ADHD affects a person’s academic, professional, and personal life. At Reverence Behavioral Health Services in Oak Brook, Illinois, Akwetey Akrong, PMHNP-BC, and the team evaluate, diagnose, and treat adolescents and adults with ADHD. To find out more about ADHD treatment at Reverence Behavioral Health Services, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic mental health disorder characterized by an ongoing pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning the condition occurs because of changes in early brain development.

ADHD symptoms usually appear during childhood. However, the type and severity of symptoms vary and may go unnoticed. Additionally, symptoms change over time.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD symptoms fall into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

Inattention

With inattention, people with ADHD may have difficulty focusing, completing projects, or staying organized. They may make careless mistakes, show up late for appointments, and struggle to follow instructions and conversations. 

Hyperactivity and impulsivity

Hyperactivity is excessive movement and energy. People with ADHD may struggle to sit still, feel the need to always be on the go, or talk too much.

Impulsivity is a behavior in which you make decisions without considering the consequences. For example, interrupting others when they’re talking or blurting out answers. 

People with ADHD may have a dominant symptom, such as more inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive. Or, they may struggle equally with both symptoms.

What happens during an ADHD evaluation?

The team at Reverence Behavioral Health Services conducts a thorough, patient-centered ADHD evaluation. The specifics of your evaluation depend on whether you have ADHD or suspect you have ADHD.

Reverence Behavioral Health Services provides adult and adolescent psychiatric care, seeing patients ages 12 and older. If you have ADHD, the team reviews your symptoms, mental and medical history, and the types of medications you take. 

They may also perform psychological tests to assess your emotional well-being. Many people with ADHD experience co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety.

If you suspect you have ADHD, the team does psychiatric testing that helps confirm or rule out ADHD and distinguish between other mental health conditions.

What treatments help ADHD?

The Reverence Behavioral Health Services team takes an integrative and patient-centered approach to care. They customize your ADHD treatment based on your needs and goals. The team aims to help you reach the highest levels of functioning and quality of life.

Treatment for ADHD may include medication management, psychotherapy, or both. 

To find out more about ADHD treatment at Reverence Behavioral Health Services, call or schedule a consultation online today.