ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) isn’t just a childhood condition, as more than 10% of adults in the United States have been diagnosed with it. At A Brand New Day, LLC, in Fairfield, Connecticut, adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner Jennifer Landolt, PMHNP-BC, diagnoses and treats ADHD in men and women to help them focus, be productive, and thrive. Book an evaluation by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.

What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a condition characterized by brain changes affecting your ability to focus and pay attention. It can also make it more difficult to sit still for long periods. While ADHD isn’t cause for concern, it may negatively affect your performance at work, school, or in relationships when left untreated. If this is the case, see Jennifer for an evaluation.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD can cause:

• Trouble paying attention
• Difficulty sitting still
• Impulsive behavior patterns
• Hyperactivity
• Getting distracted easily
• Difficulty following through on tasks
• Trouble following instructions
• Difficulty multitasking
• Making careless mistakes
• Frequent daydreaming
• Always on the go
• Fidgeting or squirming in your seat
• Talking too much
• Interrupting other people 
• Blurting out answers
• Poor organizational and time management skills
• Losing items easily
• Forgetting about appointments or other daily activities

ADHD might affect your ability to be productive at work, get good grades at school, or maintain healthy interpersonal relationships. 

What are the risk factors for ADHD?

ADHD risk factors could include:

• Family history of ADHD
• Toxin exposure
• Alcohol, tobacco, or drug use during pregnancy
• Premature birth
• Low birth weight

However, the cause of ADHD isn’t known, and anyone can develop it.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Jennifer diagnoses ADHD by completing a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. She uses DSM-5 criteria to ask questions about your emotions, moods, thoughts, and lifestyle. Jennifer screens for additional mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, in addition to ADHD. She tailors a treatment that can help you zone in.

How is ADHD treated?

Your customized ADHD treatment plan might include:

• Medication management
• Individualized therapy
• Couples or family therapy
• Group therapy 
• Stress management
• Diet and other lifestyle changes

It’s helpful to get enough sleep, stay active, eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods, minimize stress, and stick to a regular routine when possible. You might make to-do lists and keep a calendar or daily planner to stay organized.

Follow up with Jennifer to ensure your treatment is effective. Call the office anytime with questions or if you need a medication refill or additional therapy sessions. 

Schedule an ADHD evaluation at A Brand New Day, LLC, by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.