Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention and behavior. Signs and symptoms usually appear during childhood. Though ADHD symptoms may change over time, it’s a chronic condition. The clinical team at Rappore, a telehealth-based mental health practice headquartered in Manhattan, New York, offers psychotherapy and psychiatry services to individuals with ADHD. Their licensed clinicians help patients in multiple states, including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, and Texas.

What is attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects brain development in early childhood. It alters brain structure and activity, making it difficult to maintain self-control, focus, or sit still. ADHD is a chronic disorder that impairs learning, relationships, and daily functioning. When ADHD goes undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

While a diagnosis of ADHD may not have been made during childhood (before age 12) there are many adults with undiagnosed and untreated ADHD.  ADHD symptoms fall into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Inattention 

Inattention is the inability to stay on task, follow conversations, or complete assignments.

Hyperactivity 

Hyperactivity makes it hard to sit still. You may feel the need to always be in motion, fidgeting, tapping, pacing, or talking excessively.

Impulsivity 

Impulsivity makes it hard to maintain self-control. You may make decisions without thinking, potentially putting yourself in dangerous situations. Interrupting others is another impulsive symptom of ADHD.

An accurate diagnosis is critical because some symptoms of ADHD can mimic those of other diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or substance abuse. Because ADHD symptoms appear during childhood or early adolescence, symptoms that appear during adulthood are more likely due to one of these other conditions rather than ADHD. However, some individuals who appear to have no childhood history of ADHD may have had ADHD symptoms that were overlooked and became apparent later when faced with the increased demands of school or a new job.

What happens during an initial ADHD consultation?

Before your initial ADHD consultation, you complete the Rappore Mental Health Fingerprint® questionnaire, a personal assessment that helps match you with the right therapist. During your consultation, your clinician will recommend appropriate therapeutic interventions based on a careful review of all relevant information.

What are the treatments for ADHD?