ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) begins in childhood and is usually a lifelong concern. If you or your child find ADHD symptoms make life challenging, visit Leon Sankofa, Sr., MSW, at Family & Youth Foundations in Hampton and Danville, Virginia. Leon and his team offer specialized treatment to help anyone affected by ADHD lead a happier, more rewarding life. Call Family & Youth Foundations today or book an appointment online to arrange an ADHD evaluation.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a condition causing three problematic behaviors — inattention, hyperactivity, and compulsiveness. Inattentive behaviors include:

• Not paying attention to details
• Making careless mistakes
• Avoiding tasks requiring focus
• Not hearing when spoken to
• Not following instructions
• Frequently losing things
• Poor organizational skills
• Being easily distracted
• Forgetfulness

If you’re hyperactive, you probably find it impossible to sit still for long and are always on the go. You might interrupt people, intrude on others’ conversations, and speak at inappropriate times. Impulsiveness means acting without considering the consequences, like running into the road without checking for traffic. Risk-taking behavior is also typical.

These behaviors are ones most children display at times, but a child with ADHD exhibits them frequently and for years.

What problems does ADHD cause?

ADHD behaviors can make life challenging at school and home. Parents, caregivers, and teachers often find managing children exhausting and frustrating because they don’t seem to listen or do as they’re asked. These behaviors are often disruptive, making children stand out from their classmates, which can lead to bullying.

People with ADHD also struggle with emotional control. They might not understand why they face so many challenges and cause such friction. They’re likely frustrated and find it difficult to express their feelings. Relationships, study, and work can all suffer, leaving people confused and angry.

ADHD usually starts causing problems around school age and always before 12. The symptoms might change as a child becomes an adult, but ADHD rarely disappears. Some people still don’t get a diagnosis in childhood and might not find out for years that they have ADHD.

How is ADHD treated?

The Family & Youth Foundations team offers specialized treatment to children affected by ADHD and their families. After a thorough evaluation, they design a customized program combining several effective treatments. These can include:

Medication

Stimulants can be highly effective in reducing undesirable behaviors in people with ADHD. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication might also be helpful if your condition causes mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Your therapist will work with your primary care provider to ensure you get the necessary medication.

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral therapy helps you identify thoughts and actions that cause you problems. You learn to understand them and find ways to change your focus so that you achieve more successful outcomes.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy is a gentle, noninvasive treatment that helps you manage the disordered thoughts causing you problems.

The Family & Youth Foundations team has considerable expertise in helping children, adults, and families affected by ADHD. Call their office today or book an appointment online to learn how they can help your family.