ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes behavioral problems in childhood that can continue to affect you into adulthood. If you or your child displays ADHD symptoms, visit Berhanu Bedassa, PMHNP, at Bridge of Hope Mental Health Services in Portland, Oregon. Berhanu provides complete care for adults and children of all ages affected by ADHD. Call Bridge of Hope Mental Health Services or schedule a consultation online today to benefit from expert ADHD treatment.

What is ADHD?

ADHD affects your thoughts and behaviors. It develops in childhood, continuing to cause challenges for people throughout their lives. Children often struggle at school, and adults struggle with work and relationships.

It’s unclear why some children develop ADHD. Possible causes include:

• Genetic makeup
• Significant head injuries
• Premature birth
• Exposure to alcohol or nicotine in the womb
• Environmental toxins like lead

These can all cause differences in how the brain develops. The result is reduced function in the areas of the brain controlling attention and activity levels.

Undiagnosed ADHD often prevents a person from achieving their life’s potential. It also increases their risk of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder.

What symptoms indicate someone has ADHD?

Problem behaviors typical of ADHD include inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, of which you could suffer from any combination. Inattentiveness symptoms include:

• Frequent daydreaming
• Not reacting when called
• Dislike of focused tasks
• Being easily distracted
• Forgetfulness
• Poor time-keeping
• Lack of organizational skills

Those with hyperactivity have endless energy and are always on the go. They often talk a lot, don’t wait for others to finish speaking, and make excessive hand gestures. Hyperactivity causes restlessness that makes you fidget constantly. You could find it impossible to sit still and get up during a class or event even though you know you shouldn’t.

Impulsivity can lead to trouble because you act without considering the consequences. Children might jump over obstacles or into water without checking if it’s safe. Adults might race their cars on the road or experiment with illegal drugs.

Many children and adults who don’t have ADHD display these behaviors at times. But those with ADHD develop symptoms before age 12 that become continuing problems. To determine if you or your child has ADHD, Berhanu completes a thorough medical history review and symptom assessment.

What treatment is available for ADHD?

At Bridge of Hope Mental Health Services, Berhanu offers medication and behavioral therapy to help you manage unwanted behaviors. Stimulant medicines help your brain function better in the areas affected by ADHD. If stimulants don’t work or you develop side effects, other drugs could help.

With behavioral therapy, Berhanu teaches you to recognize unhelpful thoughts and change your behavior so that you encounter fewer problems.

Call Bridge of Hope Mental Health Services or book an appointment online today for an expert ADHD assessment and treatment.