Adult ADHD Specialist

Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
Women's & Reproductive Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
Sexual Health
In-Person care in Bethesda, MD
Telehealth appointments in Maryland, Virginia, DC,
Florida and Michigan

If you’re an adult dealing with ADHD symptoms like trouble concentrating, restlessness, or impulsiveness, our team of board-certified psychiatrists is here to provide comprehensive care. We address mental health disorders such as ADHD, helping patients understand and manage their symptoms. Our specialized treatment plans also consider co-occurring conditions, including anxiety disorders and depression. With mental health services available both in-person at our Bethesda office and through telehealth for patients in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC, and Florida, we make it easy for you to get the care you need.

Adult ADHD Q & A

What is Adult ADHD?

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition that often begins in childhood but may go undiagnosed until later years. While the classic symptoms of hyperactivity can diminish in adulthood, many individuals continue to experience challenges such as impulsive behavior, restlessness, and difficulties with focus. These ongoing issues can significantly impact relationships, job performance, and overall quality of life. At WCWCW in Bethesda, Maryland, we specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD in both children and adults, with a focus on improving mental health conditions.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to maintain focus, control impulsive behaviors, and regulate activity levels appropriate for their environment. While ADHD is often associated with childhood, symptoms can persist or first become noticeable in adulthood. Unlike in children, adult ADHD symptoms are usually more subtle, but they can have a significant impact on day-to-day functioning.

Common Symptoms of Adult ADHD:

  • Difficulty concentrating on tasks or conversations
  • Forgetfulness and being easily distracted
  • Impulsiveness or acting without thinking
  • Restlessness and the inability to relax
  • Disorganization and difficulty prioritizing tasks
  • Poor time management and missed deadlines
  • Mood swings and frustration over minor issues
  • Problems with multitasking or following through on plans

 

These symptoms can vary in intensity and can sometimes be confused with stress or anxiety. However, ADHD affects the way the brain functions, making it hard for individuals to stay focused and organized, often causing disruptions in work and personal life.

The Impact of Untreated Adult ADHD

Living with undiagnosed or untreated ADHD can lead to significant challenges in many aspects of life. Adults with ADHD may experience:

  • Underperformance at work or in school
  • Frequent job changes or unemployment
  • Financial difficulties due to poor planning or impulsive spending
  • Relationship struggles due to forgetfulness or irritability
  • Legal issues from reckless behaviors, including traffic violations
  • Increased stress and difficulty coping with daily tasks
  • Mental health issues such as anxiety or depression
  • Higher risks of substance abuse and self-esteem problems

 

At WCWCW, we recognize how debilitating these challenges can be, and our team is dedicated to helping you regain control of your life through effective ADHD treatment.

How We Diagnose Adult ADHD

The diagnostic process for adult ADHD involves an in-depth evaluation of your symptoms and medical history. Our specialists use various tools, including interviews and questionnaires, to determine whether ADHD is the root cause of your difficulties. Because adult ADHD symptoms can sometimes mimic other conditions like anxiety or depression, our evaluation is designed to identify ADHD-specific patterns.

You may have faced ADHD symptoms throughout your life without realizing their significance. Some individuals are first diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, often after recognizing the persistent challenges they’ve experienced at work, in relationships, or in managing daily responsibilities.

At WCWCW, we prioritize accurate diagnoses to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment. Our comprehensive approach takes into account your personal experience with ADHD, and we work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Effective Treatments for Adult ADHD

Treating adult ADHD is a multifaceted process that combines medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. Our team at WCWCW is experienced in managing both ADHD and any co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or depression, which can often accompany ADHD.

Medication for ADHD

Medications are commonly used to help manage ADHD symptoms. Stimulant medications, such as Adderall and Ritalin, are often prescribed because they help improve focus, attention, and impulse control. Non-stimulant medications may also be used, particularly for individuals who experience side effects from stimulants or have co-occurring conditions.

Our psychiatrists will carefully assess your symptoms and medical history to determine the most appropriate medication for your needs, ensuring that the treatment supports both your mental and physical health.

Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

Alongside medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be highly effective in treating adult ADHD. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns, develop better organizational skills, and learn how to manage impulsive behaviors. It also provides practical strategies for dealing with the challenges of ADHD in daily life, such as improving time management, planning, and stress coping techniques.

At WCWCW, our therapists work closely with patients to address the psychological impact of ADHD, offering ongoing support throughout the treatment process.

Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to therapy and medication, making key lifestyle changes can enhance ADHD management. Our team at WCWCW encourages patients to adopt practices that promote focus, reduce impulsivity, and improve overall well-being, including:

  • Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve concentration and reduce restlessness.
  • Healthy eating: Balanced nutrition supports brain function and stabilizes energy levels.
  • Sleep management: Developing good sleep hygiene helps regulate attention and mood.
  • Mindfulness techniques: Practices such as meditation or yoga can help improve focus and reduce stress.

When to Seek Help for Adult ADHD

If you’ve been experiencing ongoing symptoms of ADHD—such as disorganization, lack of focus, impulsive behaviors, or difficulty completing tasks—it may be time to seek help from a specialist. At WCWCW, we understand how disruptive ADHD can be to your daily life, including its impact on work performance and relationships. Our team of experienced doctors is here to guide you through the process of ADHD assessments, including a physical exam and thorough diagnostic evaluations, to ensure we accurately diagnose ADHD.

Once diagnosed, we offer comprehensive treatments to treat ADHD, which may include prescribing medication, therapy options, and personalized strategies to help manage symptoms. Finding the right medication is crucial for many patients, and our specialists work closely with you to determine what works best for your individual needs. Whether it’s medication, therapy, or a combination of both, we focus on improving not only your mental health but also your overall quality of life by addressing co-occurring conditions like mental illness.

Why Choose WCWCW for Adult ADHD Treatment?

At WCWCW, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for individuals managing adult ADHD. Our board-certified psychiatrists and licensed therapists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults. Using a personalized approach, we consider your specific challenges and goals to create effective treatment plans. This process often involves psychological tests and thorough evaluations to ensure accurate diagnosis and targeted care.

Whether through prescribed medication, psychotherapy, or lifestyle adjustments, we offer comprehensive support to address the complexities of ADHD. We also treat co-occurring conditions such as bipolar disorder and other mental disorders, which are often linked to ADHD. Our holistic approach includes collaboration with your primary care provider when necessary, ensuring all aspects of your mental health are addressed. Additionally, we offer family therapy for individuals whose ADHD may affect their relationships at home.

Our goal is to help you lead a more organized, focused, and fulfilling life, free from the limitations of untreated ADHD and related mental illnesses.

Schedule an appointment today. We are here to support you on your journey to better mental health.

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