Conditions ADHD
ADHD

ADHD — Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, impulse control, and executive functioning. It's not laziness or a lack of intelligence — and it responds well to treatment.

Get Evaluated Today

What Is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition involving persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning and development. ADHD is one of the most studied and well-understood psychiatric conditions — and one of the most commonly misunderstood.

ADHD is not just a childhood disorder. An estimated 10 million adults in the US have ADHD, and many go undiagnosed until adulthood — especially women and girls, who often present with predominantly inattentive symptoms that are easier to overlook.

Types of ADHD

Predominantly Inattentive (ADHD-I)

Difficulty sustaining attention, following through on tasks, and organizing — without prominent hyperactivity. Often called "ADD." Common in adults and more frequently seen in females.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive (ADHD-HI)

Fidgeting, difficulty staying seated, excessive talking, interrupting, and impulsive decision-making — without prominent inattention symptoms.

Combined Presentation (ADHD-C)

Both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are present. The most common presentation in children and many adults.

Common Symptoms in Adults

Adult ADHD often looks different from childhood presentations. Common experiences include:

Difficulty sustaining focus
Chronic disorganization
Forgetting appointments/tasks
Hyperfocus on interests
Impulsive decisions
Emotional dysregulation
Procrastination
Difficulty starting tasks
Restlessness
Time blindness
Low frustration tolerance
Relationship difficulties

ADHD in Adults: Commonly Missed Signs

  • High achievers — Some adults with ADHD compensate through exceptional effort, masking symptoms until demands exceed their coping strategies.
  • Women and girls — More likely to present with inattentive symptoms, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation — often misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression.
  • Late diagnosis — Many adults are diagnosed only after their child receives a diagnosis, recognizing the same patterns in themselves.

How We Treat ADHD at Arcadia Minds

Effective ADHD treatment combines medication management with behavioral strategies for lasting results.

💊

Stimulant & Non-Stimulant Medications

Stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin) are the most effective ADHD medications. Non-stimulants (Strattera, Qelbree) are an excellent alternative when stimulants aren't appropriate.

🧠

ADHD-Focused Therapy

CBT adapted for ADHD addresses executive functioning, organization, time management, and the emotional impact of living with ADHD.

📋

Comprehensive Evaluation

We take a thorough history and use validated rating scales to accurately diagnose ADHD and rule out other conditions — so treatment is targeted and effective.

📱

Ongoing Monitoring

ADHD medication requires regular follow-up to optimize dosing and monitor for side effects. We make regular check-ins easy with telehealth appointments.

Your brain works differently. That's okay.

ADHD is not a deficit of intelligence — it's a difference in how attention is regulated. We'll help you work with your brain, not against it.

Request an Evaluation