ADHD

More than six million American children and adolescents live with attention-deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD), and as many as eight million American adults also struggle with the disorder. Rondeshya “Ronnie” Cosby, NP, and the team at Bright Shadows Telepsychiatry offer exceptional ADHD care to patients aged 12 and older in and around Virginia and North Carolina. Virtual appointments can improve ADHD symptoms such as forgetfulness, restlessness, or impulsivity. To request a consultation, call today or reach out online.

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that affects your brain’s executive functioning — its ability to manage behavior, thoughts, and impulses. This condition can cause hyperactivity, carelessness, and issues with focusing.

Although the average age for an ADHD diagnosis is seven, every adult with ADHD had symptoms in childhood. Less than 20% of adults with ADHD are aware they have it. 

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

Symptoms of ADHD include:

• Restlessness 
• Fidgeting
• Impulsivity 
• Frequent distraction
• Trouble concentrating 
• Forgetfulness 
• Constantly losing things 
• Organization problems
• Frequent daydreaming 
• Issues completing tasks
• Trouble in social settings 

Some adolescents may be quietly inattentive, but others may be hyperactive. They may talk too much, interrupt conversations, or have issues staying seated in class. 

What are the benefits of ADHD treatment? 

ADHD treatment benefits include:

• Improved mood 
• Refined multi-tasking skills
• Improved organizational skills 
• Enhanced communication 
• Restored interpersonal, school, or work relationships 
• Support managing and meeting personal goals 

Seeking ADHD treatment now may prevent conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse in the future. 

What are my ADHD treatment options?

After a thorough virtual psychiatric consultation, Bright Shadows Telepsychiatry may diagnose you or your adolescent with predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, predominantly inattentive, or combined presentation ADHD. 

Talk therapy 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you or your adolescent understand ADHD triggers and develop healthy, new behavior and thought patterns. The team equips you with ways to improve organization, communication, and social skills. 

They may also recommend lifestyle changes like better sleep patterns, improved exercise and diet, or support groups. 

Behavior therapy 

Behavior therapy helps your family devise ways to improve your adolescent’s behavior with tools like “time out,” social activities, and reward charts to support them when they exemplify good behavior.

Medication 

Stimulant medications crease brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve mood, reduce stress, and boost concentration. 

Non-stimulant options don’t have methylphenidate or amphetamine. The team may prescribe these if you want to avoid stimulant side effects. Antidepressants can also alleviate ADHD symptoms. 

The team works with you to find which medication and dosage work best for you or your family member. 

 To request an ADHD consultation, call Bright Shadows Telepsychiatry today or reach out online.