My first certification in advanced practice nursing was in child and adolescent psychiatry, so I've spent decades recognizing how ADHD shows up at every age: the second-grader who can't stay seated, the teen whose grades slide in high school, and the adult who has spent years wondering why everything feels harder than it should.
What ADHD can look like
ADHD symptoms usually fall into two groups, and most people have some of each.
- Difficulty sustaining attention or careless mistakes in work or school
- Seeming not to listen when spoken to directly
- Trouble organizing tasks, managing time or getting to appointments on time
- Losing track of important dates, bills or items you need every day
- Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Fidgeting, restlessness or feeling “driven by a motor”
- Talking excessively or interrupting others in conversation
- Difficulty waiting your turn and acting before thinking
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that typically starts in childhood and often continues into adulthood. It affects attention, activity level and impulse control, and it looks different from one person to the next, which is exactly why a careful evaluation matters.
Research points to a combination of genetic, environmental and neurological factors. ADHD runs in families, and problems with the central nervous system at key moments of development may play a part.
ADHD across the lifespan
Children
ADHD tends to show up in schoolwork, behavior at home and friendships. Children can see improved self-esteem, peer relations, school performance and less conflict at home with the right treatment.
Teens
Hyperactivity often fades, but inattention and impulsivity can continue, affecting grades, driving, self-esteem and independence.
Adults
Procrastination, disorganization, trouble with time and money, and difficulty sustaining focus at work can strain careers and relationships.
Treatment options
ADHD is very manageable. Treatment is personalized and usually combines medication with education, skills training and counseling. This can be life-changing, especially for adults who were never diagnosed as children.
Stimulants
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse) are commonly prescribed and well studied.
Non-stimulants
Atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv) may be a better fit when stimulants aren't effective or cause side effects.
Behavioral therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps build organizational skills and manage behaviors. Parent training gives families practical strategies.
Lifestyle strategies
Regular exercise, consistent routines, planners and reminders, mindfulness and stress management.
My specialized training with children actually helps me in my work with adults, as many adult issues and behavioral patterns start in childhood and adolescence.
Denise Owen-FabriciusMSN, APN, PMHNP-BCHow an ADHD evaluation works with me
- 1Free 15-minute phone consultWe talk through what's going on and whether we're a good fit. No charge, no commitment.
- 2Comprehensive evaluationA detailed history, current symptoms, standardized rating scales, and for children, input from parents and often teachers.
- 3A clear answer and a planIf it's ADHD, we discuss medication options, skills and supports. If it's something else, or more than one thing, we address that too.
- 4Follow-up that doesn't rush youRegular visits to fine-tune dosing, check side effects, and keep therapy and coaching woven into each appointment.
