ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a common condition that affects people at many stages of life, including adulthood. ADHD often does not exist by itself. Many individuals with ADHD also experience difficulties with organization, focus, impulse control, emotional regulation, and time management. These challenges can be worsened by stress at home, within family relationships, an unsafe or unstable living environment, work demands, or limited financial or social resources. In other cases, ADHD symptoms may be strongly influenced by genetic factors, brain chemistry, or lack of adequate support and understanding.
Whatever the contributing factors, ADHD can have a significant impact on a patient’s daily functioning, relationships, academic or work performance, and overall quality of life. The good news is that medical professionals like Doctor Manning and Holly Kilian, FNP, at Hampstead Internal Medicine are here to help. You do not have to struggle with untreated or poorly managed ADHD alone.
Our first step is to evaluate for medical or physical factors that may be contributing to ADHD symptoms. The mind and body are closely connected. Symptoms of inattention, restlessness, or poor concentration can sometimes be influenced by hormonal or metabolic issues, sleep problems, diet, nutritional deficiencies, or other medical conditions. Certain medications or substances can also worsen ADHD symptoms. We will perform a thorough evaluation and physical exam and recommend further testing if needed.
I’ve always had trouble with focus and organization. What can be done about my ADHD?
There are many effective ways to manage ADHD. It is important to remember that, for many people, the goal is not to eliminate every ADHD trait entirely. Instead, a realistic goal is to improve focus, organization, emotional regulation, and overall functioning, so you can feel more successful, confident, and in control of your daily life.
If an underlying medical issue is identified, we will address and treat it. Counseling or behavioral therapy can be extremely helpful for ADHD, especially in learning practical strategies for organization, time management, and coping with emotional overwhelm. These non-medication approaches can help you better understand how your brain works and develop skills to work with it rather than against it.
Lifestyle changes can also make a meaningful difference. Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, has been shown to improve focus, mood, and executive function. Improving sleep habits and reducing unnecessary stressors can also help reduce ADHD-related difficulties. When symptoms are significantly impacting daily life, medications can be an effective option for many patients, helping improve attention, impulse control, and overall functioning.
Do you treat ADHD in primary care?
The doctors and nurses at Hampstead Internal Medicine frequently evaluate and treat ADHD and have extensive experience managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Most mental health conditions are treated in primary care. Primary care providers are often more accessible and able to offer ongoing, coordinated care without the long wait times often associated with specialty psychiatry.