ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects children and adults, causing complex behavioral and emotional issues. If you or your child consistently exhibit ADHD symptoms, contact the Rein Center in Iowa City, Iowa. The practice’s highly skilled mental health experts provide comprehensive, ongoing care for patients of all ages struggling with ADHD. Call the Rein Center today or book an in-person or telehealth appointment online.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes problems relating to inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. People also find it hard to regulate their moods and emotions when they have ADHD.

ADHD typically becomes apparent before children reach 12, and many receive a diagnosis at an early age. However, ADHD sometimes goes undiagnosed until adulthood, causing significant challenges for the affected person.

The Rein Center's mental health professionals have extensive experience in helping both children and adults overcome ADHD’s challenges and lead happier, more rewarding lives.

What symptoms does ADHD cause?

ADHD symptoms take two forms — inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive. 

Inattentive ADHD symptoms include:

• Becoming easily distracted
• Frequent daydreaming
• Lack of attention to details
• Making careless mistakes
• Avoiding complex tasks
• Not listening when spoken to
• Failing to follow instructions
• Frequently losing things
• Difficulties staying organized

Hyperactive/impulsive ADHD symptoms include children constantly wriggling and fidgeting, tapping their feet or drumming their fingers, and talking excessively. They might get up from their chair when they shouldn’t, run and climb at inappropriate times, and be continually on the go.

A child with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD might have difficulty waiting their turn, speaking before being asked a question, and interrupting or intruding on other children’s activities. Acting without thinking and risk-taking are also common hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.

Some people have primarily inattentive symptoms, while others are mostly hyperactive and impulsive. You could also have combined ADHD, experiencing symptoms of both kinds.

How is ADHD treated?

ADHD treatments Rein Center uses include medications and behavioral therapy.

Medications

Stimulant drugs help activate the parts of your brain that don’t function well when you have ADHD. They reduce the severity of your symptoms and improve attention skills and thinking processes. If you or your child don’t find stimulants helpful, non-stimulant medication is also available.

Many people with ADHD also suffer from depression and anxiety. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be of benefit if you have these problems.

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral therapy teaches you invaluable skills that help you manage the unwanted aspects of ADHD. You learn to recognize triggers for certain behaviors and emotional responses and how to reduce their impact. Your Rein Center therapist also helps you become better organized, manage stress and control anger, and build stronger relationships.

If you or your child have ADHD symptoms, call Rein Center to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment or book a consultation online today.