ADHD Treatment in Children and Adolescents

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental and neurological condition, which typically presents during early childhood, with at least some symptoms present prior to age 12. Neuropsychological Assessment is the right path to understand an individuals specific strengths and weaknesses.  According to the Center for Disease Control, 1 in 10 children in the United States is affected by this disorder. ADHD is considered a lifelong condition; however, the symptoms and challenges an individual with ADHD experiences changes during maturation. As a young child, an individual with ADHD may present as more hyperactive. For example, he or she may seem to be “on the go” or “driven by a motor” and these children often behave impulsively, such as talking over others or having trouble waiting their turn. In addition, young children with ADHD have a great deal of difficulty screening out distracting, extraneous stimuli leading to difficulty paying attention in stimulating classrooms. As an individual with ADHD matures, they are more likely to struggle primarily with symptoms of inattention, although they may still display signs of hyperactivity. In addition, adolescents and adults with ADHD often describe problems with executive functioning, which involve higher-level cognitive activities necessary to succeed in academic and occupational settings, such as planning, organization, time management, and productivity.

Although ADHD is a chronic condition, the symptoms can be effectively managed through a variety of techniques, such as psychotropic medications, microbiome treatment, and behavioral strategies. Our more advanced understanding of ADHD and Learning Disabilities has led to a better definition of why ADHD has become so detrimental to success… The answer is developing the Executive Functions!