ADHD

If you’re constantly daydreaming and can’t seem to focus, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be why. At Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC in Indian Land, South Carolina, family nurse practitioner Cassandra Calloway, MSN, FNP-C, BSN, RN, diagnoses and treats ADHD in patients aged 12 and older to help them focus. Schedule a mental health evaluation by phone or request one online today. 

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition affecting the ability to pay attention, focus for long periods, and stay organized. People with ADHD may also have difficulty sitting still (hyperactivity), which could impact their performance at work or school. 

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

Symptoms associated with ADHD may include:

• Trouble paying attention
• Being hyperactive
• Impulsive decisions and/or behaviors 
• Always being on the go
• Fidgeting or squirming in your chair
• Difficulty multitasking
• Losing items easily
• Problems following through with tasks
• Interrupting others
• Difficulty taking turns
• Making careless mistakes
• Daydreaming frequently 
• Getting distracted easily
• Disorganization
• Poor time management skills 
• Forgetting about daily activities or appointments
• Talking a lot
• Blurting out answers to questions at school

About seven million children and teenagers in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD, which often carries into adulthood. 

What are the risk factors for ADHD?

Risk factors for ADHD may include:

• Family history of ADHD
• Brain injuries
• Premature birth
• Poor nutrition
• Some social environments
• Drug, alcohol, or tobacco use during pregnancy
• Lead and other environmental toxin exposure

However, the exact cause of ADHD isn’t entirely clear.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Cassandra can diagnose your or your child’s condition by discussing your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, medications, and goals. She uses DSM-5 criteria to determine if you or your child has ADHD, depression, anxiety, or another mental health concern that would benefit from treatment. 

How is ADHD treated?

Treating ADHD may consist of:

• Taking medications
• Undergoing psychotherapy (talk therapy)
• Making lifestyle modifications
• Establishing a regular routine
• Making to-do lists
• Keeping an appointment book to stay organized
• Exercising regularly
• Eating nutritious, whole foods
• Minimizing stress
• Getting plenty of sleep

If you or your child needs extra assistance at school or requires therapy, Cassandra offers referrals.

She follows up to ensure mental health treatments are effective and can refill any medications when needed to help you or your child thrive long term. 

Schedule an ADHD evaluation at Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.