Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition that affects attention and behavior. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that first appears during childhood. Though symptoms change over time, ADHD doesn’t go away. Jason Meisel, NP, at Meisel NP in Psychiatry in the Park Slope area of Brooklyn in New York City, diagnoses and treats adults and children with ADHD. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it affects brain development and function during early childhood. People with ADHD experience problems with attention and behavior that affect their daily lives. These problems usually appear during childhood, making it hard to pay attention in school and socialize with peers. As you get older, your ADHD symptoms may change, but they can continue to affect your life. Adults with ADHD may have a hard time meeting work deadlines or maintaining healthy relationships. At Meisel NP in Psychiatry, Jason provides ADHD care for kids and adults. His extensive experience in caring for people with ADHD helps him design treatment plans that best meet their needs.
What are the types of ADHD?
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the primary symptoms of ADHD. However, Jason classifies ADHD into types based on your most dominant symptom.
Types of ADHD include:
Predominantly inattentive type:
Predominantly inattentive ADHD means you struggle with attention. You may have a hard time following conversations or directions, struggle with organization, or overlook important details.
Predominantly hyperactive and impulsive type:
Predominantly hyperactive and impulsive ADHD affects behavior. With this type, you may have a hard time sitting still or feel the need to always be on the go. You may also talk excessively or interrupt others during conversations.
Combined type:
Combined ADHD means there’s no single dominant symptom. You struggle with attention and behavior equally.
ADHD symptoms change, which means your type may change.
What can I expect during an ADHD evaluation?
When you first visit Meisel NP in Psychiatry for an ADHD evaluation, you and Jason spend time getting to know each other. He then reviews your symptoms and concerns, your medical and family history, and the medications and supplements you take.
Jason also performs a diagnostic evaluation to assess your mental health needs, which helps him direct your treatment plan.
How is ADHD treated?
Jason customizes ADHD treatment plans based on your age and the severity of your symptoms. The primary treatment for ADHD includes medication management and psychotherapy.
Medication management:
With medication management, Jason helps you find the right medication and dosage to manage your ADHD symptoms. Stimulant medication is the primary treatment for ADHD. This type of medication increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to ease symptoms.
If the stimulant medication causes side effects (racing heart rate, weight loss, anxiety), Jason may prescribe non-stimulant medications.
Psychotherapy:
Jason also provides psychotherapy to help you and your family better understand ADHD and develop tools to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
For ADHD care from an expert, call Meisel NP in Psychiatry or schedule an appointment online today.
