ADHD/ADD Treatment Clinic in NYC

Yes, ADD and ADHD refer to the same condition. ADD, or attention-deficit disorder, is an old term to describe what we now know as ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. As medical professionals have come to know more about the condition and its parameters, the terminology has changed to be more well-rounded.

ADHD has a broad range of symptoms, the most common of which are inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Each of these symptoms may present differently in children and adults, so we’ve further broken them down into their potential components.

Inattentiveness  
– having a short attention span
– easily becoming distracted
– making careless or irresponsible choices  
– being consistently forgetful
– losing things
– inability to follow through on tasks that are monotonous or time-consuming
– hard time listening to and/or carrying out instructions
– difficulty organising and/or prioritizing tasks

Hyperactivity
– difficulty sitting still
– continually fidgeting
– inability to concentrate on tasks
– excessive movement
– consistently hopping from one task to another

Impulsiveness
– excessive talking or rambling
– inability to wait their turn
– acting without thinking and without thought of consequences
– interrupting conversations
– minimal or non-existent sense of danger

These symptoms can lead to significant developmental issues, such as poor social interactions, trouble in the academic and work environments, and problems with authority, if left unchecked.

While it’s not always the case, those with ADHD are also at a much higher likelihood of experiencing a coinciding condition. This may include anxiety disorders, conduct disorders, depression, sleep problems, dyspraxia, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), and learning disabilities.

ADD/ADHD is centered around particularly high levels of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness as compared to others in a similar age range. While symptoms may present themselves differently in every individual, the behaviours most commonly associated with this condition are:

– carelessness
– a short attention span 
– lack of attention to detail
– an inability to finish tasks, especially ‘boring’ or tedious one
– consistently starting new projects before finishing old ones
– low levels of organization
– inability to prioritise or focus
– continually losing or misplacing things
– high levels of forgetfulness
– consistent restlessness
– excessive talking and interrupting others
– mood swings
– low levels of stress management
– extreme impatience
– low or non-existent sense of danger, pertaining to themselves and others

A person with ADHD may experience all these symptoms or only certain ones. How these symptoms present may also change as they move through development, which is why it’s important to consult a medical care professional as soon as possible. This will ensure that treatment can start as soon as possible, leading to a higher quality of life overall.

The cause of ADHD is still being researched. However, current research suggests that ADHD may be a result of any of the following:

Decreased activity levels in parts of the brain. This can cause imbalances in the brain, contributing to the signs and symptoms of ADHD.
Genetics. ADHD is likely to have a hereditary component. If a parent has ADHD, there is a 1 in 4 chance that any children they have will develop it as well.
Head injuries. Changes in the physical and chemical structure of the brain may lead to onset of ADHD. 
Premature birth. This may cause neurological, structural, or chemical imbalances that increase the likelihood of developing ADHD.
Toxic prenatal exposure. Those who were exposed to harmful substances, such as alcohol or nicotine, while in the womb are more at risk for developing ADHD.

Armed with knowledge and the tools to address it, ADHD is a common and completely manageable condition that should not hinder your quality of life.

For more information about ADHD and potential treatment options, contact our team of specialists. At Marcellus Wellness and Addiction Services, we’ll offer you the insight you need to understand your condition and the guidance to move forward towards your best life. We serve patients from Rockville Centre NY, Brooklyn NY, Queens NY, Staten Island NY, Manhattan NY, Bronx NY, and surrounding areas.