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ADHD Treatment in Litchfield
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a real and often misunderstood condition that can significantly impact daily life—not only for children but also for adults. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s focus and behavior, or an adult struggling with chronic disorganization, restlessness, or inattention, Dr. Aziz Soomro provides expert evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment.
With locations serving Litchfield and surrounding areas, Dr. Soomro is committed to helping patients of all ages understand and manage ADHD to lead healthier, more productive lives.
What causes ADHD
The exact cause of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) isn’t fully understood, but research shows that it’s a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
Here are some of the most well-established contributors:
Genetics
ADHD tends to run in families. Studies suggest that genetics play a major role, and children with a parent or sibling who has ADHD are more likely to develop it themselves.
Brain Structure and Function
Neuroimaging studies show differences in the structure and activity of certain brain regions—particularly those involved in attention, impulse control, and executive function. These differences may affect how the brain processes information and regulates behavior.
Prenatal Factors
Exposure to alcohol, tobacco, or certain environmental toxins during pregnancy may increase the risk of ADHD. Premature birth or low birth weight can also be associated with a higher likelihood of developing ADHD.
Environmental Influences
Early exposure to lead, extreme stress, or traumatic experiences in childhood may contribute to ADHD symptoms. However, these are typically considered risk factors, not direct causes.
Many individuals—regardless of age—can sometimes be energetic, easily distracted, or have difficulty focusing. However, for a diagnosis of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), a specific set of symptoms must be present. These symptoms need to persist for six months or more and must be noticeably more severe than what is typically observed in others of the same age group. Additionally, the symptoms must appear in at least two or more settings, such as at work, school, home, or in social situations. For example, if someone shows signs of hyperactivity in one environment but functions typically in all others, they may not meet the criteria for ADHD.
There are three types of ADHD: hyperactive-impulsive, inattentive, and combined. These subtypes are identified and diagnosed by the number of symptoms in each category.
Symptoms of hyperactivity include:
- Frequent fidgeting, tapping, or an ongoing need to move
- Difficulty staying seated or remaining still for extended periods
- A sense of being constantly “on the go,” often engaging in unnecessary movement like pacing or touching objects
- Struggling to engage in activities quietly or calmly
Symptoms of impulsivity include:
- Interrupting conversations
- Making hasty decisions
- Starting tasks impulsively
- Saying things without filtering
- Struggling with long-term planning
Symptoms of inattentive ADHD:
- Easily distracted by phone, email, background noise, etc.
- Forgets appointments, deadlines, or daily tasks
- Starts projects but rarely finishes them
- Poor time management — underestimates how long things will take
- Frequently loses things (keys, wallet, phone)
- Struggles to stay focused in meetings or conversations
- Finds it hard to organize tasks or prioritize
People with inattentive-type ADHD often go unnoticed. They might appear quiet and compliant — especially in group settings — but may actually be struggling to pay attention or stay mentally engaged. Because they aren’t typically disruptive, their symptoms can be overlooked or misinterpreted. While they may get along well with peers compared to those with other ADHD subtypes, they are still at risk for similar challenges, such as learning difficulties, low self-esteem, or academic/occupational struggles.
Another important aspect of ADHD is the potential for comorbid (co-existing) conditions. Disorders such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders may occur alongside ADHD or even mimic its symptoms. These overlapping issues can complicate diagnosis and treatment. For this reason, self-diagnosis or online tests may not give a full picture. It’s always best to consult a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, for a thorough and accurate assessment — whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one.
Treatment for ADHD in Litchfield
Treating ADHD typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. The primary treatment for ADHD is often medication, such as Ritalin, Adderall, or Concerta, which can help manage symptoms. However, medications can come with side effects like decreased appetite, sleep disturbances, tics, or even personality changes. If any of these side effects occur, it’s important to consult a psychiatrist immediately. When prescribed and monitored by a professional, ADHD medication can be a powerful tool in managing the disorder, but it should be part of a broader treatment plan that includes other strategies.
In addition to medication, therapy plays a key role in treatment. Behavioral therapy, which includes working with both the person with ADHD and their family, helps develop strategies for managing symptoms in everyday life. For children, this often involves parent training to create a supportive and structured home environment, especially if frustration has built up before the diagnosis. Therapy also includes learning organizational skills, establishing effective rewards systems, and fostering positive behavior patterns.
While ADHD cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed. With the right treatment, including coping strategies and potential lifestyle adjustments, many of the challenges associated with ADHD can be minimized. A psychiatrist can also suggest helpful dietary changes and ways to improve focus and organization, creating a more balanced and manageable life for those with ADHD.
