Specialized Treatment & Care of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood and can continue into the teen years and adulthood, impacting daily activities, relationships, and academic performance. It’s characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

At Bangkok Mental Health Hospital, we understand the challenges ADHD presents and offer specialized care to support individuals and families struggling with this condition.

Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

ADHD manifests itself through a variety of symptoms, which can be predominantly inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or a combination of both. Symptoms vary widely from mild to severe but commonly include:

Inattention

Difficulty with focus and organization, experience frequent forgetfulness, and have a tendency to lose items necessary for tasks and activities. Individuals often fail to follow through on instructions and struggle with completing tasks and paying attention for a long time.

Hyperactivity

This ADHD symptom involves having excessive energy, causing restlessness, talkativeness, and difficulty staying still. Children may be fidgety and easily bored. They might have trouble sitting still or staying quiet when needed, and tend to rush through things and act carelessly.

Impulsivity

Impulsiveness means acting without forethought, resulting in hurried decisions and interruptions. It’s usually related to having difficulty with self-control. In children, impulsiveness can lead them to act quickly and rashly before thinking about consequences. They may often interrupt, have difficulty waiting, and may do things without asking for permission.

Adult Challenges

Adult ADHD symptoms, such as disorganization, poor time management, and difficulty handling stress, can also present challenges. They may have problems prioritizing and focusing on tasks and difficulty multitasking. This often leads to low frustration tolerance, frequent mood swings, and difficulty coping with stress.

When to See a Doctor

Early intervention is key. If you or someone you know shows signs of ADHD, consulting a healthcare professional as soon as possible can provide clarity and offer options for effective management strategies.

Diagnosis of ADHD

Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other conditions and determine the type of ADHD. There is no single test to diagnose ADHD, as certain types of learning disabilities can have similar symptoms. Medical exams such as hearing and vision tests are performed to rule out other problems with symptoms like ADHD.

A diagnosis is based on the presence of persistent symptoms that have occurred over a period of time and are noticeable over the past six months. Our team uses a multidisciplinary approach to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The three main types of ADHD are:

Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (often previously referred to as ADD): Individuals mainly have difficulty organizing or finishing a task, paying attention to details, or following instructions or conversations. The inattention is not due to defiance or lack of comprehension.

Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation: Individuals fidget, tap, or talk excessively. Young children may run, jump, or climb constantly. Adults may find themselves feeling restless and wearing others out with their activity.

Combined Presentation: Symptoms of the above two types are present.

Diagnostic Process

If you’re wondering, “How do I know if I have ADHD?”, here are some steps and considerations to help you understand if you might have this condition:

1. Review Common Symptoms: Observe for symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.
2. Assess the Impact on Daily Life: Determine whether these symptoms significantly affect more than one area of your life, whether school, work, or personal life.
3. Consider the Duration and History: Symptoms must have been present for at least six months to be considered for an ADHD diagnosis. It’s crucial to establish that some symptoms started in early childhood, typically before the age of 12, even if they were not fully problematic until later.
4. Seek a Professional Evaluation: A thorough assessment typically includes a series of interviews, standardized behavioral rating scales, direct observations, and a comprehensive history of past and present functioning. Family and academic reports may also be looked at, especially for children, to provide a complete picture of the individual’s behavior across different settings.
5. Medical Examination: Many other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and learning disabilities, can mimic ADHD symptoms. A physical exam and possibly neurological tests can help determine if other medical problems are causing symptoms similar to ADHD.
6. Psychological Testing: In some cases, psychological testing may be necessary to assess for learning disabilities or other psychological issues.

ADD Vs. ADHD

People often use the terms ADHD and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) interchangeably, but they describe different aspects of a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulsivity, and in some cases, hyperactivity. ADD was previously used to describe kids and adults who had trouble focusing but did not display excessive hyperactivity symptoms. ADHD is the current and more comprehensive term. It encompasses a broader range of symptoms of inattentiveness, including hyperactivity and impulsivity.

What to Do Next

If you suspect that you have ADHD, the best course of action is to seek consultation from a healthcare provider who can provide a formal assessment. Self-diagnosis can be inaccurate, and professional guidance is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss appropriate ADHD treatment options for mild to severe cases.

Treatment of ADHD

Treatment for ADHD is personalized and may include:

Medication Management: Utilizing stimulant and non-stimulant medications to help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.

Behavioral Therapy: Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help modify behavior and improve time management and organizational skills for people struggling with ADHD.

Educational and Support Programs: Tailored programs that empower parents and children with strategies to handle everyday ADHD-related challenges.

Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications: Advice on nutrition, exercise, and sleep that can help improve overall mental health.

ADHD may not have a cure, but it can be managed successfully with a combination of treatments tailored to individual needs.

For Children

Families can be empowered with strategies to support children with ADHD. Symptoms can be managed with appropriate educational support, advice, and support for parents and affected children, alongside medication, if necessary.

For Adults

Medication is one of the treatment options offered for adults with ADHD symptoms. Psychological therapies such as CBT may also help manage thoughts and behavior. They also receive advice on diet, exercise, and routine to support overall well-being.

ADHD Care at Bangkok Mental Health Hospital

Our BMHH team specializes in the management and treatment of various mental health disorders, such as ADHD. We offer the latest therapies in a safe and caring environment. We understand that each case of ADHD is unique. As such, treatment plans are tailored to meet individual needs.

From diagnosis to treatment and ongoing management, our holistic approach goes beyond addressing symptoms. We focus on improving our patients’ and their families’ overall quality of life through comprehensive support. If you or someone you love is struggling with ADHD, reach out to us. Bangkok Mental Health Hospital is committed to providing expert care and personalized treatment plans designed to help manage ADHD symptoms effectively.