Common Signs of Adult ADHD
Adults with ADHD may experience difficulty concentrating during tasks or conversations, frequently lose track of appointments or responsibilities, struggle with organization and time management, procrastinate on important tasks, or begin several projects without completing them. Some people also experience restlessness, impulsive decision-making, forgetfulness, or difficulty following through with plans.
Because anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, substance use, and other medical or psychiatric conditions can sometimes cause symptoms that resemble ADHD, a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is important before establishing a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Adult ADHD Evaluation and Treatment
A careful evaluation is important when ADHD is suspected in adulthood. The assessment includes reviewing current symptoms, childhood history, school and work functioning, relationships, medical and psychiatric history, sleep, substance use, and other factors that may contribute to problems with attention or concentration.
Treatment is individualized based on the diagnosis, severity of symptoms, medical history, and each patient’s specific needs. Treatment may include medication, behavioral strategies, psychotherapy, or a combination of approaches. When medication is appropriate, both stimulant and non-stimulant options may be considered.
The goal of treatment is not simply to improve concentration, but to help patients function more effectively in their daily lives, including improving organization, time management, task completion, impulse control, and overall functioning.
ADHD Psychiatrist Raleigh NC – Medication Management
Medication can be an effective part of treatment for adults with ADHD when clinically appropriate. Treatment options may include stimulant medications as well as non-stimulant medications, depending on symptoms, medical history, previous treatment response, and individual needs.
Regular follow-up is important to evaluate whether medication is improving attention, organization, impulse control, and daily functioning. Appointments also allow for monitoring of potential side effects, including changes in sleep, appetite, anxiety, blood pressure, heart rate, or mood.
Medication decisions are made individually, with the goal of achieving meaningful improvement in symptoms and functioning while using the lowest effective and well-tolerated treatment regimen.
ADHD Psychiatrist Raleigh NC – In-Person and Telehealth Care
ADHD Psychiatrist Raleigh NC services are available in person as well as through secure telehealth appointments when clinically appropriate. Follow-up appointments allow for ongoing assessment of symptoms, functioning, medication effectiveness, and potential side effects. Treatment is individualized based on each patient’s needs, and new patients are welcome. Appointments are often available within 48 hours.
Request an Appointment
If you are experiencing problems with attention, organization, impulsivity, or other symptoms that may be related to ADHD, you can request an appointment for a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and individualized treatment recommendations. New patients are welcome.
Learn more about ADHD from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).