ADHD

Overview of ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty paying attention, excessive activity, and impulsive behavior. Individuals with ADHD often face academic challenges due to difficulty focusing, concentrating, and completing tasks. They may struggle with low self-esteem, poor social skills, and disrupted personal relationships as a result. 

Early diagnosis of ADHD is important so that evidence-based interventions, such as behavioural therapy and FDA-approved medications, can be utilized. A comprehensive evaluation by a licensed mental health professional, including information from parents and teachers, is used to determine if the symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity are negatively impacting the individual’s functioning. 

Once diagnosed, the treatment process at Buddhi Clinic involves medication management and skills training to help the person better manage symptoms and improve functioning at home, school and socially.

Cause Of ADHD

Genetic factors play a significant role in identifying the risk and there are several gene variants associated with ADHD. Individuals with a family history of ADHD are at an increased risk of being affected.

Brain Differences

Neuroimaging research at ADHD treatment centers in Chennai have revealed reduced volumes in prefrontal cortex and cerebellum regions involved in executive function, along with differences in neurotransmitter levels and connectivity between attention networks.

Environmental Influences

The ADHD treatment centers in Chennai have linked prenatal factors like low birth weight, premature birth, smoking/toxin exposure during pregnancy to a higher likelihood of ADHD diagnosis, potentially through effects on neurodevelopment.

Brain Differences

The Neuroimaging conducted at ADHD treatment centers in Chennai have provided insights into the neurobiological underpinnings of ADHD. MRI scans have demonstrated reduced volumes in the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum, regions integral to attention, planning and cognitive control. 

 

The diagnosis of this disorder provides targets for evaluation and management of symptoms at specialized ADHD treatment centers in Chennai.

Signs & Symptoms Of ADHD

ADHD symptoms are characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. For a diagnosis of ADHD, symptoms must be present in multiple settings like school and home.

Inattention

Symptoms of inattention include trouble paying attention to details, being easily distracted, not following through on tasks, losing items, being disorganized, avoiding tasks requiring sustained mental effort, and being forgetful. For a diagnosis of the predominantly inattentive presentation, six or more of these symptoms must be present.

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

Hyperactive symptoms include excessive fidgeting, inability to remain seated, talking excessively, difficulty engaging in quiet activities, always being “on the go,” and acting as if driven by a motor. Impulsive symptoms include interrupting others, blurting out answers, difficulty waiting one’s turn, and interrupting or intruding on others. For a diagnosis of the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, six or more of these symptoms must be present.

Combined Presentation

Some individuals meet criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. In this case, a diagnosis of ADHD, combined presentation is made. Proper diagnosis requires that symptoms cause impairment in more than one setting like school and home, have been present before age 12, and not be better explained by another disorder.

Diagnosis Of ADHD

The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) requires a thorough clinical assessment by a qualified mental health professional. Diagnostic criteria for ADHD as defined in the DSM-5 manual must be used to make a formal diagnosis.

Symptoms:

The individual must display either 6 or more symptoms of inattention; or 6 or more symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Onset:

Symptoms must be present from childhood, typically before age 12.

Impairment:

Symptoms must cause impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.

Setting: Impairment from symptoms must be seen in two or more settings (e.g. home and school).

Differential Diagnosis:

Symptoms cannot be better explained by another mental disorder.

The assessment involves comprehensive interviews with the individual and other informants, as well as review of any relevant records, to determine the presence of criteria symptoms across developmental periods and settings. Only with fulfillment of all diagnostic criteria can ADHD be formally diagnosed by a mental health professional in a clinical evaluation.

Management and Treatment of ADHD

The management and treatment of ADHD involves a multimodal approach consisting of medication intervention, behavioural therapy and lifestyle management. Medication remains the first line treatment option for ADHD with stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine salts being the most effective pharmaceutical interventions. Choosing the right ADHD treatment center in Chennai is important for getting access to these medication options along with specialized therapy programs.

Pharmacological interventions

Stimulant medications have shown to effectively reduce core ADHD symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity in both children and adults. The ADHD treatment center should have experience in gradually titrating doses of FDA approved stimulants to achieve an optimal balance of efficacy and tolerability for each patient.

Behavioural Therapies

Psychotherapies like cognitive behavioural therapy aim to teach organizational, time-management and emotional regulation skills. ADHD coaching helps patients implement compensatory strategies. Parent training programs guide caregivers to use positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors at home.

Lifestyle management

Patients are encouraged to stick to a regular daily routine, healthy diet, adequate exercise and mindfulness practices to alleviate ADHD symptoms. The treatment center must consider a patient’s lifestyle and social factors for a holistic treatment approach.

Why Choose Buddhi Clinic for ADHD ?

At Buddhi Clinic, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based care for individuals with ADHD. Our multidisciplinary team of specialists, advanced treatment approaches, and personalized support ensure that each patient receives the tailored care needed to manage symptoms effectively. With a focus on empowerment and holistic well-being, Buddhi Clinic is dedicated to guiding individuals on their ADHD journey.

Contact Us

For those seeking ADHD care, contact Buddhi Clinic. Our expert team provides personalized, compassionate support, ensuring each individual’s needs are met with the highest standard of care.

Our Buddhi Clinic Centres

Chennai Teynampet, Sriperumbudur, Coimbatore

Our Apollo x Buddhi Centres

Chennai - OMR, Indore

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