ADHD

If you or a loved one struggles to pay attention, sit still, and thrive at work or school, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be to blame. In fact, one in nine children have an ADHD diagnosis. At PsychPro Health, based in Brockton, Massachusetts, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Ana Depina, PMHNP, offers ADHD treatments that help you or your child zone-in, optimizing focus. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation at PsychPro Heath by phone or request one online today.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a condition that affects the ability to pay attention and sit still for long time periods. It’s commonly diagnosed during childhood, but many adults also struggle with ADHD. Treatment with Ana at PsychPro Health can help restore focus and the ability to thrive at work or school. She personalizes a plan based on your specific needs, lifestyle, and goals.

Which symptoms can ADHD cause?

ADHD can cause the following symptoms:

• Problems focusing
• Inability to sit still for long periods
• Forgetting to complete tasks
• Getting distracted easily
• Poor organization
• Losing things easily
• Making careless mistakes
• Difficulty multitasking
• Daydreaming
• Problems following through on and completing tasks
• Difficulty completing tasks quietly
• Fidgeting or constantly moving your hands or feet
• Problems waiting your turn
• Interrupting others
• Being restless and always on the go
• Talking more than usual 
• Speaking out of turn

Symptoms may be mild or severe. Some of these symptoms could indicate another mental health concern, which is why completing a comprehensive mental health evaluation is important. 

What are the risk factors for ADHD?

ADHD appears to be genetic, meaning children may be born with gene changes causing altered brain development. Kids diagnosed with ADHD often have siblings or parents with the condition. Other risk factors include being born prematurely, low birth weight, and exposure to toxins (alcohol, lead, tobacco, etc.) during fetal development.

When left untreated, ADHD can cause poor grades at school, poor performance at work, low self-esteem, difficulty in social situations, frequent accidents or injuries, and trouble keeping a job. ADHD also increases the risk of substance use disorder.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Diagnosing ADHD involves a review of your medical history, medications, lifestyle, and symptoms. Ana completes a psychiatric evaluation to assess your or your child’s emotions, behaviors, thought patterns, and moods. She determines how to best treat ADHD.

What is the treatment for ADHD?

Your or your child's personalized ADHD treatment plan may consist of:

• Individualized therapy
• Social skills therapy
• Healthy lifestyle modifications
• Family therapy
• Assistive school programs
• Medication management to optimize focus

It’s also helpful to eat nutritious foods, get plenty of sleep, set a regular bedtime routine, exercise regularly, and minimize stress. Keep to-do lists and a calendar to stay organized. 

See Ana as needed for therapy or medication prescription refills, and call the PsychPro Health office anytime with questions about your or your child’s treatment plan.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth ADHD evaluation with Ana at PsychPro Health by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.