What is ADD / ADHD?
ADD or ADHD is an acronym for Attention Deficit Disorder / Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5), it is a mental health disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that develops in childhood and interferes with a person’s daily functioning and can include the following symptoms:
Isn’t ADD / ADHD a condition found only in young children?
No. According to the DSM-V, the prevalence of ADHD occurs in most cultures in about 5% of children and about 2.5% of adults.
Research suggests that symptoms of ADD / ADHD can continue into adulthood and may have a significant impact on adult patients [e.g., impact on relationships, education, work / career, and even personal safety].
Because ADD / ADHD is frequently misunderstood, many patients who suffer from it do not receive proper treatment and can be difficult to diagnose in adults.
I’m pretty sure I have ADD / ADHD. What is the process to diagnose and treat ADD / ADHD?
Because the symptoms ADD / ADHD can be difficult to recognize and diagnose, the evaluation process is thorough and will comprise of three parts:
Part II: Administration of Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales [note: This assessment will be scheduled as a separate, follow up office visit and is not covered by insurance].
The Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder scale is a well-known and consistent measure of ADD / ADHD across the lifespan. Based on Thomas Brown’s cutting-edge model of cognitive impairment in ADD/ADHD, the Brown ADD scales reliably screen and explore cognitive functioning associated with ADD / ADHD.
Part III: Treatment recommendations and interventions
Review assessment results with patient and/or patient’s family/legal guardian and discuss treatment options; which may include the following:
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