Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Posted on September 8, 2014
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Dr. Rehman is a Adult and Child Psychiatrist in McLean Virginia treating multiple types of ADHD, ADD in both Adults and Children. If you are a parent with concerns about your child’s behavior, activities and/or academics; please contact our office at 571.236.8516 and schedule an appointment for evaluation.
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children. ADHD is a brain condition that is often first identified in school-aged children when it causes disruption in the classroom or problems with schoolwork. ADHD can affect adults too. While some children seem to outgrow the disorder, or learn to compensate for the symptoms, others do not.
ADHD by the numbers
- 2.5% of U.S. adults
- 5% of U.S. children
Adult ADHD
It was only in the 1980s when mental health professionals started to recognize that ADHD could persist in adults, and even now, getting an accurate diagnosis is tricky. Some experts believe too many adults (and children) are currently medicated for ADHD, often by doctors who have little knowledge or experience with this disorder. Others argue that those adults who have experience functional impairment can benefit from ADHD medications and behavioral therapy.
Some adults whose ADHD is left untreated may experience negative consequences including high incidence of substance abuse and automobile accidents, and difficulty staying employed and maintaining relationships. Yet, adults with ADHD can also be highly intelligent, energetic, charismatic, and creative.
Many adults with ADHD have developed skills to compensate for their distractibility. Some excel in school at an early age and don’t run into any problems until college/ grad school or starting at a challenging new job. Suddenly, their coping mechanisms are not as effective anymore.
- Adult ADHD can be comorbid with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder – further complicating diagnosis and treatment.
- For adults diagnosed with the condition, treatment can consist of behavioral therapy, medication, or both.
- People who think they may have ADHD should be evaluated by a psychiatrist.
ADHD & ADD Resources and Literature
A parent’s guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD & ADD) prepared and written by the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and American Psychiatric Association
Contact our Psychiatrist Office in McLean Virginia today to schedule your consultation.
Office: 571.236.8516
Fax: 703.462.8884
Our Address is:
1340 Old Chain Bridge Rd., Suite 402
McLean, VA 22101
Tags: ADHD, ADHD Doctor, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, McLean Virginia