Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD Treatment in Cranberry Township, Mt. Lebanon and Monroeville, PA

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)is a highly-genetic, neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the regulation of various components of the brain, specifically related to executive functioning. Skills impacted in this area include: concentration, memory, attention, effort, motivation, impulsivity, hyperactivity, organization, and social skills.

Researchers from the National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institutes of Health are currently exploring the etiology of ADHD. Like many other mental health disorders, ADHD is believed to be caused by the interaction between genes and external environmental factors. Some factors leading to the onset of ADHD may include: genetics, cigarette smoking, alcohol or drug use during pregnancy, exposure to environmental toxins at a young age, low birth-weight, and brain injuries.

Approximately 3-5% of all American children are affected by ADHD, and anywhere from 30-60% of kids diagnosed with ADHD in childhood will continue to be affected in adulthood. Diagnoses among children continue to increase annually; but, researchers have noticed an even larger increase in the percentage of girls and women being diagnosed with this disorder. Unfortunately, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that despite the increase of children and women being diagnosed with ADHD, there hasn’t been an increase in those receiving treatment. According to their research, the CDC claims that roughly 17.5% of children with ADHD are not receiving proper medications and mental health treatments needed to improve their condition.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is commonly diagnosed in childhood, however, symptoms can persist through adolescence and adulthood. It can prove to be pervasive in everyday life, and can impede one’s academic or occupational development. A thorough evaluation is often needed to make appropriate diagnosis and guide effective treatment. At the Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI), psychological testing is available to confirm the appropriate diagnosis. Additionally, we have a variety of trained clinicians that are ready to provide evidence-based treatment to alleviate difficulties experienced by those with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Treatment provided by CBI is tailored to the individual, ensuring that our clients will receive high-quality help that maximizes their opportunities for improvement and goal-attainment.  For additional information about our staff and services, visit us at www.papsychotherapy.org Or contact us at (724) 609-5002.

This article was originally posted on www.papsychotherapy.org January 2018