ADD/ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD) are mental health conditions that make it hard to focus on work and school life. At Blue Water Psychiatry in Mesa, Arizona, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners Justin McKinley, PMHNP-BC, Susan Bowen, PMHNP-BC, and their compassionate staff diagnose and treat ADHD or ADD to improve your ability to concentrate and excel at work and school. To schedule a consultation, call the office or use the online booking feature today.

What is ADHD and ADD?

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that diminishes your ability to focus, pay attention, and sit still. It may also cause you to struggle in school or at work, often making it hard to stay organized and connect with others. 

While attention-deficit disorder (ADD) is a similar term to ADHD, the symptoms may be different. The condition causes poor focus and forgetfulness without hyperactivity.

Treatment with the Blue Water Psychiatry team can help you better cope with ADHD or ADD — dramatically improving your relationships and quality of life. 

What are the common symptoms of ADHD and ADD?

Some of the most common signs and symptoms of ADHD or ADD include:

• Problems paying attention to conversations and tasks
• Inability to focus for long periods of time
• Being unorganized
• Losing your train of thought
• Difficulty with problem-solving and time management 
• Impulsive decision making

Depression and anxiety are often co-existing conditions with ADHD or ADD. To get the help you need for these and other mental health conditions, see the Blue Water Psychiatry team at the first sign of a problem.

What are the risk factors for ADHD and ADD?

Some risk factors for developing ADHD or ADD may include:

• Genetics
• Environmental toxins
• Being born prematurely
• Substance misuse during pregnancy 

Even though the specific cause of ADHD or ADD isn’t clear, proper diagnosis and treatment of ADHD or ADD symptoms can help you live a fulfilling life — without your condition holding you back from opportunities.

How is ADHD or ADD diagnosed?

To determine if you have ADHD or ADD, the team at Blue Water Psychiatry conducts a comprehensive evaluation. They review your medical history and ask about your thoughts, feelings, medications you’re taking, and lifestyle habits. 

After reviewing the details of your treatment plan, they help you to cope with your symptoms, developing tools and strategies that allows you to live a more productive lifestyle. If you have depression or anxiety along with ADHD or ADD, the team can also work alongside you to improve your overall mental wellness. 

We can diagnose ADHD with QBtest neuropsych testing. 

How are ADHD and ADD treated?

Your treatment plan for ADHD or ADD may include:

Lifestyle changes
Adopt healthy lifestyle habits are a vital part of any ADHD or ADD treatment plan. It’s also important to eat nutritious foods, get plenty of rest, keep stress levels low, and make do-to lists to stay organized. Keep up a regular routine and break large tasks into smaller components.

Medication management
Blue Water Psychiatry also offers medication management to help you reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention.  

Psychotherapy 
Talk therapy, also called psychotherapy, is often beneficial for those with ADHD or ADD. Working with a specialist who understands your condition and the struggles you’re going through allows you to open up about your thoughts and feelings and find the help that you need to make positive changes. 

To receive compassionate help for ADHD or ADD, call Blue Water Psychiatry or book a consultation online today.