Portland, ME, ADHD Treatment Center

Factors & Causes Related to ADHD

The exact cause of ADHD is currently unknown. However, research has found various risk factors, including genetics, that play a role in whether an individual develops ADHD.

Risk Factors Associated with the Development of ADHD Include:

• Experiencing a brain injury.
• Being exposed to environmental risks, such as lead, during pregnancy or infancy.
• Alcohol, tobacco, or other substance use during pregnancy.
• Premature birth or delivery. 
• Low birth weight.

Recognizing the Common Signs & Symptoms of ADHD

Being able to recognize the signs and symptoms associated with ADHD can help individuals determine if they or someone they love are experiencing it and the necessary next steps. 

Signs & Symptoms of ADHD Include:

• Failing to pay close attention to details at school, work, or other important life areas. 
• Having difficulty executing plans or initiating tasks.
• Having trouble staying focused on specific tasks.
• Not actively listening to others when directly spoken to.
• Not following specific instructions at school, work, or other important life areas. 
• Having difficulties organizing tasks, items, or activities. 
• Losing items necessary for school, work, or other important life areas. 
• Being easily distracted and forgetful.
• Constantly fidgeting, squirming, or tapping hands or feet. 
• Leaving one’s seat when expected to remain seated. 
• Running or climbing when it is not appropriate.
• Feelings of restlessness.
• Talking excessively. 
• Blurting out an answer before the question is complete. 
• Difficulties waiting in line or for one’s turn.
• Interrupting or intruding upon others.

Symptoms must be present for at least 6 months to meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Some of the symptoms associated with ADHD, such as difficulties focusing, may be present in individuals who are not experiencing ADHD. It is crucial to note that those experiencing ADHD do not grow out of these behaviors, and symptoms may persist or increase in severity if left untreated. 

Evaluating & Diagnosing Adult ADHD

Some differences exist between ADHD in adults vs. children and how the condition is determined. For example, a child must meet six criteria versus five for an adult. There are also additional criteria that need to be met before an ADHD diagnosis can be given to an adult.

If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it is critical to receive a diagnosis from a medical provider to determine which type of ADHD is present and which treatment option would be most beneficial. Additionally, those qualified to provide an official diagnosis must consult with family members, teachers, or others aware of the individual’s symptoms in different settings.

At Bishop Health, we can provide each individual with an in-depth psychological assessment to identify exactly which mental health concern, or ADHD presentation, is present. 

Outpatient ADHD Treatment at Our Portland, ME, Mental Health Clinic

At Bishop Health, our Portland, Maine, treatment center not only offers ADHD treatment options, but we also provide various outpatient treatment programs for other mental health concerns.

Outpatient Treatment Services Offered at Bishop Health Include:

• Psychiatric services
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
• Individual therapy
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Treatment & Therapy Options for ADHD

While there is no cure for ADHD, Bishop Health offers effective treatment and therapy options to help reduce symptoms associated with ADHD. Available treatment options for ADHD include psychotherapy as well as prescription medications, such as amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (e.g., Adderall) and methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin).

ADHD Treatment Therapies

There are different forms of psychotherapy treatment modalities used to help with the treatment of ADHD.

Treatment Therapies for ADHD include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Family therapy
• Behavioral parent management training
• Classroom management interventions or academic accommodations
• Stress management techniques
• Mindfulness meditation
• Support groups

A combination of different treatment therapies and psychiatric medications may be used to treat ADHD and its symptoms.