ADHD

Wondering if you might be suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Insight Psychiatry can provide medication, and self-management tools through in-person and convenient virtual appointments to improve day-to-day focus. Scheduling has never been easier with access to your provider's weekly calendar. Book your diagnostic assessment online now with Insight Psychiatry.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a life-long neurodevelopmental disorder that affects your brain’s executive functioning — its ability to manage behavior, thoughts, and impulses. 

The disorder makes paying attention, focusing, and at times even sitting still difficult. It may also cause problems at school or work, making organization and connecting with others difficult.

The average age of diagnosis is 7 years old. This implies that some teens and adults get overlooked later in life due to the lack of diagnosis at a young age. This missed diagnosis can lead to troubles at school, work, and even in our relationships. Less than 20% of adults with ADHD are aware they have it.

What are the symptoms of ADHD? 

Common signs of ADHD in teens and adults include:

• Restlessness 
• Issues focusing 
• Impulsivity 
• Frequent distraction
• Forgetfulness 
• Consistently losing things 
• Organization issues 
• Frequent daydreaming 
• Trouble finishing tasks
• Issues in social settings 

Some teens may be quietly inattentive and have trouble listening closely when spoken to. Others may be hyperactive — talking excessively, being constantly in motion, and struggling to restrain their emotions or thoughts. 

ADHD treatment can be helpful if you or your teen struggles with: 

• Communicating 
• Organization 
• Multi-tasking 
• Identifying and accomplishing goals

If left untreated, ADHD can lead to depression and anxiety, as well as school and relationship issues. 

What is the process of diagnosing ADHD?

|EVALUATION|

Every patient will have an initial diagnostic assessment. If ADHD is suspected at that time, a second diagnostic assessment appointment will be made to administer testing, review results, go over ADHD symptoms, and develop a treatment plan.

During the ADHD diagnostic assessment, Insight Psychiatry uses the QbTest, a popular ADHD computer test that measures core ADHD symptoms and gives providers feedback on impulsivity and reactions. This test is not a sole indicator of the diagnosis, but a tool to be used along with clinical judgment and expertise. 

The QbTest is a one time out of pocket fee of $180.  However, you may be exempt if you can provide a previous psychiatric evaluation from a psychological provider diagnosing you or your teen with ADHD. 

|MEDICATION| 

Insight Psychiatry has stimulant prescription capability, but you must schedule an in-person initial evaluation. Follow up appointments can be completed via telhealth. It is required that patients must be seen for an in office appointment once per year. 

Your provider requires an initial in-office urine drug screen before sending any prescriptions. They require follow-up drug screens every three months. 

Your provider sends prescriptions on a month-to-month basis until you’ve been thoroughly established with the practice. You can then move to an appointment every three months — as long as the dosage of your medication remains the same and your symptoms are stable.

|THERAPY| 

Behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you or your teen understand their ADHD triggers, develop healthier behavior patterns, and discover tools to help with organization and focus.

Therapy can restore confidence and empower you with organization, communication, and social skills. Your provider may also recommend lifestyle changes like sleeping routines, improved diet and exercise.

If you’re interested in ADHD treatment, book your appointment online today.