ADHD Specialist
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Advanced Psychiatric Associates
Tina Okonkwo, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Care for Children, Adolescents and Adults located in Charlotte, NC
The developmental condition attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) begins in childhood but can continue to cause problems into adulthood. If you suspect your child has ADHD or wonder if you should have received this diagnosis in childhood, Justina Okonkwo, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, of Advanced Psychiatric Associates can help. At the practice in Charlotte, North Carolina, Justina and her team provide in-person and virtual holistic health care, encompassing your mind, emotions, mood, and body. Call Advanced Psychiatric Associates to schedule a consultation or book online today.
ADHD Q & A
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) develops in childhood, although it's not always diagnosed at this early stage. Symptoms start before the age of 7 and continue to cause problems at home and school during adolescence.
ADHD is responsible for behavioral problems that can affect children's life chances. While some experience an improvement as they get older, others continue to struggle with ADHD as adults.
Children with ADHD are often challenging for their parents, caregivers, and teachers because their behavior tends to be disruptive and uncooperative.
What symptoms are typical of ADHD?
There are a variety of behaviors and signs that indicate someone has ADHD. These include:
- Becoming frustrated quickly
- Having frequent mood swings
- Being fidgety
- Acting without thinking
- Not worrying about safety
- Having limitless energy
- Showing a lack of respect for authority
- Being unable to stay focused
- Not responding to others
- Lacking organizational skills
Some children have mainly hyperactive traits, while others mostly have problems with attention and concentration issues. Many children exhibit a combination of the two.
Children and adults with ADHD lack resilience in the face of problems. But rather than seeking help, they tend to become more disruptive or more withdrawn.
What treatments are available for ADHD?
Although there's no cure for ADHD, with expert treatment at Advanced Psychiatric Associates, children and adults affected by this condition can learn to overcome many of their difficulties. Treatments available include:
Medication
The use of stimulant medications is key in treating ADHD. Stimulants help to improve focus and concentration while reducing the severity of problematic behaviors.
Behavior therapy
Behavior therapy helps your child understand why their thought processes and behaviors differ so greatly from most of the people around them. The Advanced Psychiatric Associates team offers practical solutions that enable you to adjust unwanted behaviors to improve everyday life.
Diet and lifestyle
A healthy diet and lifestyle are vital to optimal treatment success. You may need to make changes to your child's diet to ensure they have all the micronutrients they need, as well as encourage them to exercise more and help them find ways to manage stress.
Advanced Psychiatric Associates delivers personalized treatment based on these three approaches, which have proven to be effective. To benefit from their expertise, call the office or book an appointment online today.