ADHD

Adult and Child ADHD Psychiatrist in San Diego, California

ADHD services offered in San Diego, CA

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can cause behavior problems that make life challenging for children and adults. If you or your child has difficulties because of ADHD symptoms, visit experienced psychiatrist Sanjoy Sathpathy, MD, and his team at So Cal Psychiatric Care in San Diego, California.

The team provides expert assessment and effective therapies to help you enjoy a happier life.

ADHD Q&A

What is ADHD?

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) causes behavioral problems that begin in early childhood. Symptoms often become apparent when a child starts school, where they have difficulties conforming to expected behavior. The result is friction between the child and their teachers and caregivers, making life challenging for everyone involved.

Now that parents and teachers are more aware of conditions like ADHD, many children receive a diagnosis earlier, enabling them to get the help they need. However, a significant number of children still go undiagnosed. Children who don’t have an expert ADHD assessment may be considered badly behaved, disruptive, or persistent daydreamers. The problems ADHD causes continue into adulthood, sometimes changing in severity but rarely going away.

What symptoms does ADHD cause?

ADHD causes two kinds of symptoms. Some children primarily suffer from inattentiveness issues, while others are hyperactive and behave impulsively. Many children have combined ADHD, experiencing symptoms of both types.

Inattentive ADHD Behaviors include:

Not paying attention
Making thoughtless mistakes
Difficulties concentrating
Not listening to others
Problems following instructions
Frequently losing things
Lack of organizational skills
Disliking tasks that require focus
Becoming lost in thought
Forgetting responsibilities like daily chores

Hyperactive and impulsive ADHD symptoms include fidgetiness, restlessness, and problems staying seated. It can be hard for people with ADHD to control their energy, so they’re constantly on the go, can’t wait their turn, and can’t stop talking.

Children and adults with ADHD also have problems regulating their moods and emotions. They often feel frustrated, bewildered, and isolated, leading to angry outbursts.

What treatments can help with ADHD?

The So Cal Psychiatric Care team’s ADHD treatment typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Stimulant medications increase activity in areas of the brain affected by ADHD. They improve nerve cell communication, which increases your ability to focus and think clearly.

The team also uses behavioral therapy to help you manage issues like impulsiveness and angry outbursts that can cause so many problems for people with ADHD.

If you or your child consistently struggles with ADHD symptoms, call So Cal Psychiatric Care or book an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.