Overview
The condition of ADHD, known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, consists of symptoms like hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and impulsiveness. Usually beginning in childhood and continuing into adulthood, ADHD can interfere with nearly every aspect of your life, including school, work, home, and personal relationships.
Symptoms
Generally, the symptoms of ADHD are separated into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsiveness. Someone who is:
- inattentive,
- finds it difficult to pay attention to details,
- is easily distracted,
- and can be forgetful.
It’s easier to notice inattention in children who have started attending school, because they will more obviously exhibit these symptoms once they’re in a demanding environment.
For hyperactivity and impulsiveness, the symptoms manifest themselves as:
- restlessness,
- an inability to sit still,
- fidgeting,
- and talking excessively.
For a child with ADHD, these symptoms are likely to appear before age 7. If you believe your child might be exhibiting these symptoms, research your local counseling center to see about an ADHD evaluation.
Causes
Unfortunately, there isn’t a definitive cause of ADHD, but there are a number of factors that could influence whether an individual develops it or not. The most important factor is genetics, which show a strong correlation between genes that control brain neurotransmitters and ADHD. Besides genetics, negative prenatal behavior like smoking or drinking can lead to ADHD in children, and environmental toxins can play a role as well.
Treatment
The main types of ADHD treatment involve medication and, sometimes, behavioral therapy. There are mental health professionals, including a team of experts at New Horizons in McKinney who specialize in ADHD. They can provide an informed diagnosis and zero in on the right treatment plan. Getting some ADHD counseling should help a patient deal with ADHD more easily, but it’s often necessary to incorporate medications like stimulants to deaden impulses that are beyond the patient’s control. At New Horizons, we inform you of all of your options and give you our recommendations.
Prevention
Parents can play a role in preventing ADHD in their children by living a healthy lifestyle, especially during pregnancy. Make sure you and your children avoid exposure to pollutants or toxins, which include cigarette smoke and lead paint. Limiting a young child’s time in front of the television may help too. New studies are released each year though pointing to even more possible causes. Our McKinney counselors and psychologists stay up with the latest ADHD research and can gladly discuss a proper plan for prevention.
Why Choose New Horizons to Treat ADHD?
If you’re dealing with ADHA or know a loved one who is, it’s time to take action. We have a licensed psychologist specializing in North Dallas ADHD counseling services who can provide a comprehensive and helpful evaluation as well as a range of related ADHD services to patients of all ages, including assessment and treatment for ADHD. Contact us now to request an appointment.