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ADHD Specialist

Washington Center for Women's and Children's Wellness (WCWCW) Our Services ADHD
Washington Center for Women's and Children's Wellness (WCWCW) - - Child, Adolescent, Women’s & Reproductive Psychiatry

Washington Center for Women's and Children's Wellness (WCWCW)

Child, Adolescent, Women’s & Reproductive Psychiatry located in Bethesda, MD and offering Telehealth appointments in Maryland, Virginia, DC, Florida and Michigan

 

 

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder that affects more than 8% of children and more than 2% of adults. At WCWCW, our team of board-certified psychiatrists diagnoses and treats ADHD in children, teens, and adults. To make an appointment at our Bethesda, Maryland, office, call today or use the online booking feature.

ADHD Q & A

All Services > Our Specialties > Child & Adolescent Psychiatry > ADHD

adhd

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a disorder characterized by hyperactivity, an inability to focus, and fidgeting. It’s most common in children and teenagers but can also affect adults. 

If you have ADHD, you might find it difficult to sit still or pay attention for extended periods of time. Without intervention and treatment, ADHD can affect your performance at school or work as well as your personal relationships. 

Other symptoms of ADHD can include:

  • Having trouble focusing or concentrating
  • Being easily distracted
  • Being forgetful
  • Talking excessively
  • Finding it hard to wait your turn
  • Interrupting others when they’re speaking

If you have ADHD, you might also have trouble organizing things or sticking to a schedule. 

What are the types of ADHD?

There are three kinds of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. 

Inattentive ADHD

Individuals with this type of ADHD have difficulty focusing and completing tasks. Inattentive ADHD is more common in girls than boys.

Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD

People with this type of ADHD display impulsive behaviors like interrupting others or being unable to sit still. You might also find it difficult to focus or stay on task.

Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive ADHD

The most common type, combined ADHD features symptoms that are both inattentive and impulsive.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

To diagnose ADHD, your WCWCW clinician reviews your child’s medical history and asks about your symptoms, including when they first started, when they’re most noticeable, and their impact on your job or academic performance. 

Next, they conduct a physical exam, a psychological exam, and have you (and potentially your child’s teachers) fill out a questionnaire. After gathering the necessary information, your clinician can determine the type of ADHD your child has.

What are effective treatments for ADHD?

Treatment of ADHD usually involves a combination of prescription medication and behavioral therapy. These targeted medications and therapies work together to effectively alter your brain chemistry, making it easier to stay focused and better control your impulses. Therapy can teach you how to monitor and better manage your behavior.

To ensure your treatment is successful, your WCWCW clinician might also recommend healthy lifestyle changes like:

  • Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
  • Getting plenty of sleep
  • Exercising regularly
  • Limiting screen time

To explore the various treatment options for ADHD, make an appointment at WCWCW by calling our office or requesting an appointment online today.