ADHD

If you can’t seem to stay focused, often feel compelled to be on the go, or just can’t stop misplacing essential items, you may have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). At Mimi Morris, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PLLC, you can get a thorough evaluation to determine if you have ADHD. Then Mimi customizes your treatment based on your unique symptoms and mental health needs. To schedule a telehealth appointment, call the office in Missoula, Montana, or use the online booking feature today!

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by changes in the growing brain. These changes lead to ADHD as they affect areas of the brain responsible for planning, focusing, and regulating emotions and behaviors.

Everyone occasionally struggles to pay attention or control hyperactivity. But ADHD causes severe and frequent problems that affect performance at school, success at work, and the ability to build personal relationships.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD is usually diagnosed between the ages of 4-7 years. However, one-third of children struggle with ADHD throughout adulthood, and some people aren’t diagnosed until they become adults.

There are three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. Your symptoms depend on the type:

Inattentive ADHD

This type of ADHD causes symptoms such as:

• Making reckless mistakes
• Missing essential details
• Getting distracted easily
• Forgetting to start or finish tasks
• Being unable to get or stay organized
• Daydreaming instead of paying attention
• Having a hard time following directions

Many people with ADHD tend to lose things like homework or car keys. 

Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD

The symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD include:

• Fidgeting at inappropriate times (at school or during work meetings)
• Being unable to control their impulses
• Talking nonstop and blurting out answers
• Interrupting conversations
• Being constantly on the go
• Finding it impossible to wait
• Feeling restless

People with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD tend to jump in and interrupt conversations or activities already in progress.

Combined ADHD

Combined ADHD refers to having inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

How is ADHD treated?

Before recommending treatment, Mimi completes a thorough assessment, evaluating your history and learning about the challenges you face. In many cases, you complete a checklist that helps describe your emotions and behaviors, how frequently they cause problems, and when those problems occur.

The first line of treatment for ADHD is medication. Common medications for ADHD include Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Ritalin, Dexedrine, and Strattera (non-stimulant alternative). Stimulants effectively improve attention and reduce hyperactivity by balancing neurotransmitter levels.

If you don’t want stimulants or have tried them and had side effects, Mimi can prescribe nonstimulant medications with a similar effect. Stimulant medications require an in person follow up appointment and a minimum of yearly office visits in accordance with Montana laws. 

Mimi may also recommend talk therapy to help you overcome the daily challenges of ADHD. For example, you may learn to manage emotional outbursts, improve social skills, or get tips for staying organized.

With compassionate care at Mimi L. Morris, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PLLC, you can manage the challenges of ADHD. Call the office or book an appointment online today.