ADHD

About 5% of adults have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which makes concentrating difficult. At Avant Medical Consulting in Dublin, Ohio, board-certified psychiatrist Jordan Spellman, MD, helps you or a loved one combat debilitating ADHD symptoms to optimize focus and productivity at work or school. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, affects your brain’s ability to concentrate. It causes difficulty focusing or sitting still, especially for long periods. However, people with ADHD can often hyperfocus on things they truly enjoy. If you or a loved one struggles to pay attention, see Dr. Spellman for treatment recommendations that help overcome common challenges.

Which symptoms can ADHD cause?

ADHD symptoms may include:

• Problems paying attention and/or sitting still
• Difficulty focusing for long periods
• Making careless mistakes
• Forgetting items or losing things easily
• Getting distracted easily
• Daydreaming
• Problems with organization
• Difficulty following through and completing tasks
• Poor multitasking abilities
• Fidgeting
• Interrupting others
• Feeling restless
• Talking more than expected
• Always being on-the-go
• Low self-esteem
• Poor grades or work performance 
• Frequent accidents
• Difficulty in social situations 

ADHD symptoms vary from person to person. They can be mild to extreme and sometimes debilitating. The risk of substance use disorder (SUD) is often higher in people with ADHD. 

What are the risk factors for ADHD?

ADHD risk factors include:

• Family history of ADHD
• Brain development changes
• Toxin (alcohol, tobacco, lead, etc.) exposure
• Preterm birth
• Low birthweight

The exact cause isn’t clear, and there’s no surefire way to prevent ADHD in people prone to developing it. However, treatment can help you better manage your symptoms. 

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Diagnosing ADHD at Avant Medical Consulting requires a comprehensive consultation and medical review using DSM-5 criteria. 

Dr. Spellman discusses your symptoms, medical history, thoughts, moods, emotions, and behaviors to learn if you have ADHD or related conditions. Examples include anxiety disorders, depression, autism spectrum disorder (ADS), and learning disabilities. 

How is ADHD treated?

Your customized ADHD treatment plan at Avant Medical Consulting may consist of medication management, psychotherapy, or lifestyle modifications. Dr. Spellman offers social skills training, family therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other forms of psychotherapy. He provides referrals for education and work support when necessary.

It’s also helpful to establish a regular routine, eat nutritious foods, minimize stress, stay active, and get enough sleep. Consider making to-do lists or keeping a calendar to stay organized, and follow up with Dr. Spellman for continued care as needed.

Schedule an ADHD evaluation at Avant Medical Consulting by calling the office or requesting a visit online today.