Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

(ADHD) is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or both. Below are examples of each:
Inattention Hyperactivity
Fails to give close attention to detail Talks excessively
Makes careless mistakes Blurts out an answer before a question has been completed
Does not seem to listen when spoke to directly Has difficulty waiting his or her turn
Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish tasks Often “on the go”; may appear restless
Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort Unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities Interrupts or intrudes on others
Loses necessary items Fidgets with or taps hands or feet
Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli Squirms in seat
Forgetful in daily activities Runs about or climbs in situations where this is not appropriate
Because many people can identify with some of the symptoms related to ADHD, it is important that a thorough assessment be conducted in order to make the correct diagnosis. In addition to determining the symptoms of ADHD, testing also looks for patterns in IQ and test performance that are often found in individuals with ADHD. This type of testing is often required by schools if you are interested in academic accommodations and physicians if you are interested in trying ADHD medication.
When diagnosing ADHD, it is important to consider if these behaviors happen often and when they started. An individual with ADHD shows a consistent pattern of the majority of the symptoms listed above. There are also many other reasons, other than ADHD, that someone would display these types of behaviors and that is why a thorough diagnosis is important before selecting a treatment plan. ADHD is a disorder that starts in childhood and some symptoms must be present prior to age 12.
Medication and behavior therapy are effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD. Research has shown that behavior therapy, which for children usually includes a parent training component, is especially effective when combined with medication. It can also be enormously beneficial to look at possible school-based interventions and accommodations to help work with the challenges associated with ADHD.
Dendrinos Psychology provides treatment for ADHD.  Have questions?  Call us today at 612-470-4099 or email us at andrea@dendrinospsychology.com.