ADD

What is ADD?

ADD is a common mental health challenge characterized by a reduced ability to focus, pay attention, and stay on task — particularly at work or school. It can hinder your quality of life, affecting grades, job performance, or even interpersonal relationships when not addressed. 

ADHD has the same symptoms as ADD, with the addition of hyperactivity or struggling to sit still for long periods. Fortunately, treatment with Davidson River Recovery minimizes symptoms.

Which symptoms can ADD or ADHD cause?

ADD or ADHD can cause the following symptoms:

• Daydreaming
• Problems focusing
• Difficulty paying attention 
• Poor organizational skills
• Poor time management skills
• Forgetting things
• Poor work or school performance
• Impulsive decision-making
• Difficulty prioritizing
• Poor planning
• Mood swings
• Low frustration tolerance  
• Decreased quality of life
• Hyperactivity
• Difficulty sitting still

ADD/ADHD can also lead to depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders when not treated. See a mental health specialist at the first sign of problematic ADD or ADHD.

What increases my chances of having ADD or ADHD?

The cause of ADD or ADHD isn't entirely clear, but its risk factors include:

• Family history of ADD or ADHD
• Issues with central nervous system development
• Maternal drug or alcohol use
• Being born prematurely
• Environmental toxin exposure as a child

Adopting healthy habits during pregnancy and childhood may minimize the risk of ADD, but you can’t necessarily avoid having the condition.

How does my specialist diagnose ADD or ADHD?

To diagnose your condition and determine its severity, a Davidson River Recovery provider discusses your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and completes a psychiatric evaluation. During the evaluation, they ask questions about your moods, thoughts, emotions, lifestyle habits, and ability to focus. They then tailor a treatment plan best suited to your needs.

How is ADD or ADHD typically treated?

The standard treatments for ADD or ADHD include taking medications that improve focus, making lifestyle changes, and undergoing behavior-change therapy. Your provider tailors a medication regimen based on your specific needs and alters it whenever necessary to achieve superior results.

It’s also important to exercise regularly, sleep enough, eat nutritious foods, and minimize stress with stress-reduction techniques. Make to-do lists and keep a calendar to stay organized, and follow up with your Davidson River Recovery specialist as needed.

To reduce bothersome ADD or ADHD symptoms, call the Davidson River Recovery office or use the online booking feature today.