ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect both children and adults, leading to frustrating and upsetting disruptions in daily life. At Kema Health Services, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Josyane Kengni, PMHNP, and the other specialists provide compassionate ADHD care in the office and via telehealth in Maryland. Call the Frederick, Maryland, office or click the online scheduler to make an appointment now.

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neuro-developmental disorder causing difficulties with attention, behavior, and impulsivity. The three types of ADHD are:

Inattentive type

Inattentive type ADHD causes difficulty paying attention, following instructions, and completing tasks. Children or adults with this type of ADHD may appear absent-minded, forgetful, or easily distracted. They may struggle to get organized and prioritize tasks at school or work.  

Hyperactive-impulsive type

Hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD can vary by age. Children often struggle with fidgeting, interrupting others, impatience, and excessive energy. Adults may have difficulty with those things, but more often, this type of ADHD surfaces as impulsive behaviors and may include reckless spending or substance abuse.

Combined type

Combined type ADHD, the most common type, causes symptoms from both the inattentive and hyperactivity-impulsivity categories.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Kema Health Services uses a rating scale to evaluate symptoms and diagnose ADHD in children and adults. While there are several versions of ADHD grading, all scales ask questions to accurately assess symptom severity. Some of the symptoms the provide will look for are:

• Poor attention span
• Focus and concentration challenges 
• Impulsiveness
• Hyperactivity
• Compulsive behaviors
• Social and relationship difficulties related to your symptoms
• Problems at school or work
• Angry outbursts or temper tantrums
• Difficulty managing your emotions

ADHD can affect other areas as well, so your questions may be more extensive. Kema Health Services tailors grading to the patient for the most accurate assessment and diagnosis.

You answer questions in number form. For example, you use a 0-3 scale to describe how often a symptom occurs. A zero rating means you never have that particular issue, while a three means very frequently or at all times.

Parents complete the questions on behalf of their young children, but older children, teens, and adults complete their own assessments. 

What are the treatment options for ADHD?

ADHD treatment depends on your unique needs. Kema Health Services offers psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and psychopharmacology (medication management) for complete ADHD management. You can choose between in-office or telehealth visits, and walk-ins are welcome. 

If you or someone you love has ADHD symptoms, you need an accurate diagnosis and treatment solutions. Kema Health Services can help; call the office or click the online scheduling feature to make your appointment now.