Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
When Focus and Impulse Control Feel Out of Reach
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more than occasional forgetfulness or restlessness. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, organization, and emotional regulation. ADHD can make everyday tasks challenging, impact work performance, strain relationships, and cause frustration or self-criticism.
ADHD is not a matter of laziness, poor parenting, or low intelligence. Adults and children with ADHD often have high potential and creativity—they just process and prioritize information differently. With tailored treatment, strategies, and support, individuals with ADHD can thrive in personal and professional life.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is diagnosed when symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity are persistent, interfere with functioning, and appear in multiple settings. Symptoms can vary widely:
Inattention: difficulty sustaining focus, frequent forgetfulness, losing track of tasks, or struggling to organize work
Hyperactivity: excessive movement, restlessness, difficulty sitting still, or feeling internally restless
Impulsivity: acting without thinking, interrupting others, or making hasty decisions
ADHD can present differently in adults compared to children. Adults may have subtler hyperactivity but experience significant challenges with organization, time management, and prioritization.
Common Symptoms of ADHD
Symptoms often include:
Difficulty focusing on work or conversations
Frequently losing items or forgetting deadlines
Poor time management and procrastination
Restlessness or fidgeting
Difficulty regulating emotions or stress
Impulsivity in decision-making or spending
Trouble completing tasks or sustaining motivation
Many adults with ADHD develop coping strategies that mask some symptoms, which can delay diagnosis.
Causes and Risk Factors
ADHD develops due to a combination of biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Contributing factors may include:
Genetic predisposition or family history
Differences in brain structure and neurotransmitter function
Exposure to early-life stress or toxins
Co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or learning disorders
Understanding these factors helps guide individualized treatment plans.
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
ADHD is diagnosed through a thorough evaluation by a qualified psychiatric provider. At Valiant Mental Health, evaluation includes:
Comprehensive clinical interviews with patients and, when applicable, family members
Review of symptoms across multiple settings (home, school, work)
Screening for co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression
Assessment of functional impairment and daily challenges
Accurate diagnosis is critical, as ADHD can be mistaken for anxiety, depression, or executive-function deficits.
Evidence-Based Treatment Options for ADHD
Medication Management
Medication can help improve focus, impulse control, and overall functioning. Treatment is tailored to symptom profile, daily needs, and response history, using medication classes such as:
Stimulants (first-line, highly effective for attention and hyperactivity)
Non-stimulants (when stimulants are not tolerated or insufficient)
Adjunctive medications for co-occurring mood or anxiety symptoms
Medication works best when combined with behavioral strategies and environmental adjustments. Some medication like stimulants are restricted to specific states (Idaho, Washington online)
For an overview of psychiatric medication approaches, see our Medication management services.
Therapy and Behavioral Strategies
Behavioral therapy and coaching can support skill-building in organization, time management, and emotional regulation. Therapy helps you:
Identify distractions and improve focus
Develop routines and organizational systems
Address emotional regulation and stress management
Support long-term habit formation and coping strategies
Medication and therapy together often produce the best outcomes. For therapy, click here.
Telepsychiatry for ADHD
ADHD can make attending in-person appointments challenging due to scheduling or attention barriers. Telepsychiatry offers convenient access to consistent care.
Telehealth appointments are effective for:
Initial ADHD evaluations
Ongoing medication management
Coaching and therapy integration
Learn more about telehealth care at Telepsychiatry.
How Valiant Mental Health Supports You
At Valiant Mental Health, ADHD treatment is collaborative and tailored to your needs. You receive:
Care from a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner
Evidence-based medication management
Behavioral strategies and coaching support
Telehealth options designed for convenience and accessibility
With comprehensive care, individuals with ADHD can achieve greater focus, improved organization, and better overall functioning.
How Valiant Mental Health Helps Treat ADHD
If you’re struggling with ADHD, you don’t have to figure out the next steps on your own. At Valiant Mental Health, we take a practical, evidence-based approach to care—focused on helping you feel better and function better over time.
Your care plan is individualized and may include one or more of the following:
Medication Management
When appropriate, medication can play an important role in treating ADHD. We focus on careful evaluation, thoughtful medication selection, and ongoing monitoring to balance symptom relief with side effects. Medication decisions are collaborative and adjusted based on how you respond—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
👉 Learn more about our Medication Management
Therapy
Many people benefit from therapy alongside or instead of medication. Evidence-based therapies—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and related approaches—can help you develop skills to manage symptoms, reduce distress, and improve daily functioning. We work with you to determine whether therapy, medication, or a combination is the best fit.
👉 Learn more about our Therapy Services
Telepsychiatry
Care should be accessible. We offer secure telepsychiatry appointments so you can receive high-quality psychiatric care from the comfort of your home. Telepsychiatry allows for flexible scheduling and continuity of care without sacrificing clinical quality.
👉 Learn more about Telepsychiatry
Whether you’re newly seeking help or looking for a better treatment approach, our goal is to support you with clear guidance, professional expertise, and compassionate care—every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions for ADHD
Q: What are the main symptoms of ADHD?
A: ADHD is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which may interfere with school, work, and relationships.
Q: How is ADHD diagnosed?
A: Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation, including clinical interviews, behavioral assessments, and gathering information from family or educators.
Q: Can ADHD be treated effectively?
A: Yes. Treatment often combines medication management, behavioral therapy, and coping strategies. Telepsychiatry allows consistent follow-up for both adults and children.
Ready to Begin?
👉 Request an Appointment »
👉 Learn More About Medication Management »
👉 Explore How Telehealth Works »
You don’t have to leave home to start feeling better. Let’s take that first step together.
This page is intended for educational purposes and does not replace a professional psychiatric evaluation.
