ADHD
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner located in Elk Grove, CA
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common behavioral health issue that usually develops during childhood. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Veronica Kamau, PMHNP-BC, of Jabali Behavioral Health Nursing, Inc., has extensive experience with ADHD and can help families in and around Elk Grove, California, find a path forward. If you have questions, call or set up an appointment online.
ADHD is one of the most common mental health disorders that affect children. While most people with ADHD will develop symptoms during childhood, the condition is also found in some adults.
The condition is categorized according to which symptoms are displayed. ADHD is usually classified as predominantly inattentive or predominantly hyperactive/impulsive. People who experience symptoms from both categories are diagnosed with combined presentation ADHD.
ADHD is a chronic health condition because the symptoms persist over time and require professional treatment. It is considered a debilitating disorder because symptoms affect your ability to succeed at school, work, and social settings.
Understanding what to look for can help parents know when it’s time to schedule a diagnostic assessment for ADHD. Some of the signs that a child might be experiencing this condition include:
Very often, it’s a teacher or caregiver who first notices the symptoms of ADHD. This may be because teachers or daycare workers who work with children all the time can easily see when behavior falls outside the norm.
If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, know there are many ways to effectively treat the disorder. Most children who receive treatment can live active, full, and rewarding lives, just like their peers.
Treatment focuses on building and developing the skills your child needs to thrive. Therapy focuses on helping kids identify and process their emotions. Also, it helps them learn ways to manage everyday tasks, like maintaining a study schedule, cleaning their rooms, or completing school projects on time.
Medication is helpful for many children with ADHD. Some work to help balance brain chemicals, while others help improve focus or control impulsivity. Finding the right drug therapy often requires a period of trial and error to determine which options create the most improvement with minimal side effects.
If you have additional questions or concerns about diagnosing or treating ADHD, call the office today to book a visit or schedule online in just a few clicks.