ADHD

Mark DeLuca, MD

General Psychiatrist & Forensic Psychiatrists located in Royal Palm Beach, FL & Palm Beach, FL

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) usually manifests in early childhood, but many people with the condition struggle with daily activities and interactions throughout their lifetime. With offices in Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach, and Juno Beach, Florida, board-certified psychiatrist Mark DeLuca, MD, and certified physician assistant Dane Santoro, PA-C, can help you find tools and strategies to manage ADHD and improve your quality of life. Call the nearest office to schedule an appointment or book online today.

ADHD Q&A

What is ADHD?

ADHD develops when parts of your brain develop differently. These changes affect how you think and act, interfering with your ability to regulate emotions and behaviors.

All children may struggle to sit still or pay attention from time to time. However, kids with ADHD have more frequent emotional and behavioral challenges. As a result, they often have difficulties with schoolwork and have a hard time socializing with others.

ADHD is often diagnosed between ages 4-7, but the condition may go undiagnosed until adolescence or even adulthood.

What symptoms appear in people with ADHD?

You may develop one of three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined type. If you have combined ADHD, you may have symptoms from both types.

With inattentive ADHD, you may have symptoms such as:

Difficulty staying focused
Overlooking details
Making reckless mistakes
Struggling to get organized
Forgetting to start or complete tasks
Having a hard time following directions
Daydreaming

However, with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, people may:

Find it impossible to sit still
Have difficulty waiting for their turn
Interrupt or talk over others
Speak or act without thinking
Lack self-control
Seek immediate rewards

Most people with ADHD have a poor working memory (the ability to store pieces of information briefly), which may make it harder for them to follow instructions and solve problems.

How is ADHD treated?

Prior to developing a personalized treatment plan, the team performs an assessment to determine which type of ADHD you have. They may recommend ADHD treatments such as:

Therapy

Therapy is an important part of ADHD management, helping you learn how to better handle emotional and behavioral challenges. The team can help you with issues such as stress or anger management. Or, you might benefit from learning organization or social skills to enhance your quality of life and relationships.

Medications

Many people improve with stimulant medications that help with ADHD symptoms. These medications balance brain chemicals. The team can also prescribe nonstimulant medications if you prefer not to take stimulants.

To learn more about how to manage ADHD, call Mark DeLuca, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.

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