ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common disorder that interferes with an individual’s daily functioning. Children with ADHD may experience difficulty at home, school, and in relationships with their peers. While many behaviors and difficulties are associated with ADHD, the most common are: Impulsiveness/acting quickly without thinking first, Hyperactivity/a child who can’t sit still, walks, runs, or climbs around when others are seated, talks when others are talking, and Inattention/a child who daydreams or seems to be in another world, is sidetracked by what is going on around him or her.

The diagnosis of ADHD typically involves a thorough review of history, behavior, and symptoms, and may involve a battery of tests. Both Gary Yorke, Ph.D. and Jane Yorke, M.A. have extensive experience diagnosing and assessing ADHD.

Treatment

Management of ADHD typically involves education about the disorder, appropriate structure and modicfications, and some people do take medication. Counseling with the child and parents can be helpful as well.

FAQ

1) What is the difference between ADHD and ADD?

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is the previous name for what is now called Attention-Deficit/Hyperactvity Disorder (ADHD). There are three types of ADHD:

  • Predominately Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation
  • Predominately Inattentive Presentation
  • Combined Presentation

2) How is ADHD assessed?

Assessment involves a clinical interview, obtaining a thorough history of behaviors and symptoms, and psychological assessment.

3) Does everyone need to take medication?

Some people do not take medicine to manage their ADHD. Others only take their medication during the week and do not take their medication on weekends or during summer breaks.  Medications taken for ADHD are typically considered quite safe when taken under medical supervision. A nice summary about ADHD medication is available on the NIMH website.