ADHD

Children and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often struggle with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Our team at Inspire Behavioral Health in Fairfax, Vienna, and Sterling, Virginia, offers expert diagnosis and care to people of all ages with ADHD. We  combine carefully managed medication with behavioral therapy to help you or your child manage ADHD more effectively. To find out how we can help you, call Inspire Behavioral Health today or book an in-person or telemedicine appointment online.

ADHD Q&A

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD). NDDs affect a person’s nervous system, resulting in abnormal brain function. Often, signs of ADHD begin in early childhood and can continue into adulthood.

ADHD symptoms may be predominantly inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive, however some individuals may struggle with both types of symptoms, called Combined ADHD.  Children and adolescents may have difficulties at school and/or college, in structured settings, or at home, while adults may face difficulties completing daily tasks or at work.

No lab test can confirm an ADHD diagnosis, however comprehensive Psychological testing may be conducted to determine if you or your child meets criteria for ADHD. Our team is qualified to complete testing and determine the most effective treatment plan for you or your child to successfully manage symptoms of ADHD and achieve lasting success!

What symptoms does ADHD cause?

In most cases, individuals with ADHD are easily distracted, have difficulty staying focused, may struggle with completing tasks or transitioning to new tasks, and often misplace things. They’re unable to stay organized despite their best efforts. Those with predominantly inattentive ADHD may  be “dreamers”, getting lost in their own world and failing to respond when spoken to.

Children with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD are always on the go. They may seem restless, can’t sit still, and move around frequently. With children, often they may get up when they should be seated in class or appear fidgety or have difficulty sitting still. They can’t wait their turn and frequently interrupt when others are talking or are sometimes described as being “chatty” in class. Some children might exhibit behavioral difficulties such as not following directions, having aggressive or impulsive outbursts, or refusing to engage in certain tasks. These behaviors are likely due to the child’s difficulty with concentrating or completing tasks, thus resulting in frustration or refusal to do things because of previous difficulty – not because they are defiant or difficult children. Parents and teachers may struggle to cope with the disruptive behaviors typical of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.

Adults with ADHD may find it hard to settle into a job or pursue a career, or have difficulty with meeting deadlines and finishing tasks required of them in their work. Sometimes, relationships can be challenging because those without ADHD may struggle to understand the symptoms and behaviors associated with the disorder. Some people with ADHD find daily life  frustrating and may become  frequently irritable or have problems controlling their temper.

Untreated ADHD increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. However, proper treatment can significantly improve your or your child’s functioning and quality of life.

How is ADHD treated?

Out team at Inspire Behavioral Health has a great deal of  experience helping children and adults with ADHD. While the disorder does not have a cure, most individuals  respond very well to a combination of medication  management and therapy.

Most people benefit from medication to help manage ADHD symptoms. Stimulant medicines are often effective in reducing symptom severity, while antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can also be helpful.

In addition to medication, the Inspire Behavioral Health team provides behavioral therapy and counseling for children and adults struggling with ADHD. Therapy helps you understand the diagnosis and symptoms, and learn ways to cope with unwanted or challenging behaviors. We often work with the individual and their families/support systems to ensure that all areas of life are addressed and increase the likelihood of success. 

To benefit from high-quality ADHD treatment, contact us today! You can call us by phone or book an in-person or telehealth appointment online.

At Inspire Behavioral Health we offer MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PRIMARY CARE, PSYCHOTHERAPY, ADHD TESTING, EMDR, TMS plus treatments for ADHD, ANXIETY, BIPOLAR, DEPRESSION, EATING DISORDERS, GENDER EXPLORATION, OCD,  PANIC DISORDERS, and TRAUMA.