Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, most commonly referred to as ADHD is a mental disorder that is characterized by problems with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. It’s estimated that more than 6.4 million children in the whole world have ADHD. If you are one of the millions of people who are affected by this disorder, then you know how difficult it can be to live a normal life. You may also know that finding the right doctor is key to managing your ADHD symptoms. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about ADHD doctors!
Contents
- 1 Who Are ADHD Doctors?
- 2 What Does an ADHD Doctor Do?
- 3 What Should I Expect When Seeing an ADHD Doctor?
- 4 Tests Performed By ADHD Doctors
- 5 What Are The Different Types of Doctors That Treat ADHD?
- 6 Types of Treatments Recommended By ADHD Doctors
- 7 How To Find ADHD Doctors in Your Area?
- 8 The Bottom Line
Who Are ADHD Doctors?
ADHD doctors are who you turn to when you or your child is struggling with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD doctors are medical doctors who have specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. While there are many different types of doctors who can treat ADHD, it is important to find an ADHD doctor who is a good fit for you or your child.
ADHD doctors are medical professionals who have gone through extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. ADHD doctors are usually either child psychiatrists or pediatric neurologists. Child psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders in children. Pediatric neurologists are medical doctors who have completed specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in children.
What Does an ADHD Doctor Do?
The roles and responsibilities of a doctor specializing in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) vary depending on their specific title or area of expertise.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health, including disorders like ADHD. A psychiatrist can prescribe medication and provide talk therapy.
A neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the nervous system. A neurologist may be able to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms to ADHD.
A clinical psychologist has a doctoral degree in psychology and specializes in psychotherapy, which is also known as talk therapy. Also, A clinical psychologist cannot prescribe medication but can provide an evaluation for ADHD and talk therapy.
A clinical social worker also has a doctoral degree in psychology and specializes in psychotherapy. A clinical social worker cannot prescribe medication but can provide an evaluation for ADHD and talk therapy.
A pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of children. A pediatrician can provide an evaluation for ADHD, prescribe medication, and offer referrals for behavioral treatment.
These are some of the roles and responsibilities of a few of the professionals that may be involved in diagnosing and treating ADHD. It is important to talk to your doctor about what is best for you or your child.
What Should I Expect When Seeing an ADHD Doctor?
When you make an appointment to see a doctor for possible ADHD, you can expect them to ask about your medical history and symptoms. They will also likely ask about your family’s medical history as well as any medications you are currently taking. Be prepared to answer questions about:
Your Schooling And Work life
One of the questions your doctor may ask has to do with how well you or your child are doing in school or at work. Be prepared to answer questions about:
- How well do you or your child focus during class or while working
- How often do you or your child struggle to complete tasks
- If there have been any issues with lateness or absenteeism
Your Home Life
Your doctor may also ask about how symptoms of ADHD affect your home life. They may ask about:
- How well do you or your child can stick to a routine at home
- Whether there are any problems following rules or respecting others’ personal space
- If there have been any behavioral issues such as temper tantrums or meltdowns
Your Relationships
Sometimes ADHD can make it difficult to maintain relationships. Your doctor may ask about:
- Whether you or your child have any close friends
- If you or your child get along well with siblings or other family members
- If there have been any recent conflicts with friends, family, or romantic partners
Any Legal Problems You Have Had
Also, another thing that can be related to ADHD is any legal problems you may have had. Your doctor will likely ask about:
- Whether you or your child have ever been arrested
- If you or your child have gotten into trouble at school or work
- If you or your child have ever had a driver’s license suspended or revoked
Your Mental Health History
Another thing that a doctor will ask about is your mental health history. Be prepared to talk about:
- Any previous diagnoses of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder
- If you or your child have ever had any thoughts of harming yourself or others
- If you or your child have ever attempted suicide
- Also, If you or your child have ever engaged in self-harm
Your Drug Use
A doctor will also ask about your drug use. Be prepared to talk about:
- Any illegal drugs you or your child have used in the past or are currently using
- Also, Any prescription medications you or your child are taking that were not prescribed to you or them
- Any over-the-counter medications you or your child are taking
- Any herbal supplements or vitamins you or your child are taking
Tests Performed By ADHD Doctors
After a doctor has gathered all of this information, they will likely do a physical exam. They may also order tests such as:
Blood Tests
One of the most common tests by ADHD doctors is blood tests. Blood tests can help rule out other conditions that may be causing symptoms similar to ADHD. These blood tests are also a way to check for any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to ADHD.
Imaging Tests
Another type of test that an ADHD doctor may order is an imaging test. Imaging tests can help rule out other conditions that may resemble ADHD. These tests can also check for any structural abnormalities in the brain that may be causing ADHD symptoms. Some common imaging tests include:
- CT scan
- MRI
- PET scan
Neuropsychological Testing
In some cases, a doctor may also recommend neuropsychological testing. This type of testing can help assess how well someone thinks, remember, and pay attention. Neuropsychological testing can also help diagnose learning disabilities.
After gathering all this information, your doctor will likely do a physical exam. This is to rule out any other possible causes of your symptoms. Once everything has been ruled out, your doctor may give you a diagnosis of ADHD.
What Are The Different Types of Doctors That Treat ADHD?
There are several different types of doctors that can treat ADHD, depending on the severity of symptoms and other factors. Here are some common types of ADHD doctors:
Child Psychiatrist
One of the most common types of doctors that treat ADHD is a child psychiatrist. Child psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders in children. They can prescribe medication for ADHD, as well as provide therapy and other treatments. These child psychiatrists are often the most comprehensive type of ADHD doctor, as they can treat both the mental and physical aspects of the disorder.
Pediatrician
Another common type of doctor that treats ADHD is a pediatrician. Pediatricians are medical doctors who have completed training in the care of children. They can prescribe medication for ADHD, as well as provide other treatments. Pediatricians may refer patients to other types of doctors, such as child psychiatrists or psychologists, for additional treatment.
Psychologist
Psychologists are not medical doctors, but they have received specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Psychologists can provide therapy for ADHD, which may help reduce symptoms. They cannot prescribe medication, but they may refer patients to other types of doctors who can.
Family Physician
Family physicians are medical doctors who provide care for the entire family. They can prescribe medication for ADHD, as well as provide other treatments. Family physicians may refer patients to other types of doctors, such as child psychiatrists or psychologists, for additional treatment.
Types of Treatments Recommended By ADHD Doctors
These are some of the treatment methods by ADHD doctors:
Medications
There are several different types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The type of medication that is best for a particular person depends on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, other medical conditions, and personal preferences. Some common types of medications used to treat ADHD include:
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication used to treat ADHD. They work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help to improve focus and concentration. Stimulants are available in both short-acting and long-acting forms, and they can be taken either as a pill or as a patch.
Non-stimulants
Another class of medication that is sometimes used to treat ADHD is non-stimulants. These include medications like atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv). These drugs work by affecting certain chemicals in the brain, including norepinephrine and dopamine.
Non-stimulant medications generally have a slower onset of action than stimulants, but they can be just as effective for some people with ADHD. These drugs are often used when stimulants haven’t worked or if someone has bothersome side effects from stimulants.
There are also a few antidepressants that are sometimes used to treat ADHD. These include bupropion (Wellbutrin) and tricyclic antidepressants. Antidepressants work by affecting the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, and they can help reduce symptoms of ADHD.
These are just a few of the different types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. Talk to your doctor about which type of medication is best for you or your child.
Behavioral Therapy
In addition to medication, several other treatments can be helpful for people with ADHD. These include:
Behavioral therapy
Behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that can help people with ADHD learn how to manage their symptoms. This may involve learning new skills, such as how to better organize tasks and how control impulsive behavior.
Family therapy can help ensure that everyone in the family is on the same page when it comes to managing ADHD. This may involve learning how to better communicate and setting up systems to help everyone cope with the symptoms of ADHD.
Support Groups
There are also many support groups available for people with ADHD and their families. These groups can provide valuable information and support, and they can be a great way to connect with others who are dealing with similar issues.
Self-Care
Another important treatment for ADHD is self-care. This may involve making lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet. It may also involve learning stress management techniques, such as yoga or meditation.
Making these kinds of changes help reducing symptoms of ADHD improving overall well-being.
How To Find ADHD Doctors in Your Area?
Finding a qualified ADHD doctor in your area can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to help you find the right doctor for you or your child:
1. Ask your primary care physician for a referral.
2. Look for a doctor who is board certified in psychiatry or neurology.
3. Check with local hospitals or medical schools to see if they have a clinic specializing in ADHD.
4. Search the internet or directory listings for doctors who specialize in ADHD.
5. Ask family and friends if they know of any good doctors in your area.
ADHD is a condition that requires treatment by a qualified medical professional. If you think you or your child may have ADHD, talk to your doctor about getting an evaluation.
The Bottom Line
ADHD doctors play an important role in the treatment of ADHD. They should be compassionate, patient, experienced, and sensitive to the needs of their patients. If you or someone you know has ADHD, talk to your doctor about finding a qualified ADHD doctor in your area.
Sometimes there is more than one type of doctor that can help with your specific situation. Book an appointment with the specialist that you feel most comfortable with to get started on your journey to better health!
Hope this article was of help to you! If you are suffering from mental health disorders, you may seek help from Therapy Mantra. We have a team of highly trained and experienced therapists who can provide you with the tools and skills necessary for overcoming mental health disorders. Contact us today to schedule an online therapy or download our free Android or iOS app for more information.
