ADD & ADHD Treatment Austin

Improved Focus and a Calmer Mind

Three generations of family walking happily outdoors

Trouble focusing, impulsivity, and more are classic symptoms of attention deficit disorder (ADD), which is also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some individuals with this condition learn to manage themselves very well and do not require any specific treatment or therapy. Others face a greater challenge and benefit greatly from psychiatric care. Our Austin team is ready to help! This page explains the basics of ADD/ADHD and possible treatment options.

What Is Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)?

ADHD highlighted in dictionary

It might surprise you to learn that ADD actually does not exist anymore! In 1987, it was reclassified as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. This title presents a more accurate and complete description of the condition.

Essentially, ADHD is a brain development disorder that affects how a person pays attention, controls impulses, and manages their activity levels. There are three subtypes of ADHD:

  • Inattentive type: This is characterized by struggles with focus and attention.
  • Hyperactive-impulsivity type: This primarily involves high energy and restless actions.
  • Combined type: Individuals with combined ADHD demonstrate a mix of both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms

Symptoms & Diagnosing ADHD

Teenage boy struggling with schoolwork

Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD include:

  • Inability to pay attention
  • Trouble focusing
  • Difficulty completing tasks
  • Frequently losing track of important items like keys or phones
  • Getting easily distracted
  • Fidgeting
  • Inability to sit still
  • Impatience
  • Talking too much

Diagnosing ADHD requires an evaluation by a qualified medical professional. The process often involves an interview, questionnaires, and an examination to rule out potential physical causes of symptoms. Although ADHD is usually thought of as something that affects children, it is a lifelong disorder and may be diagnosed at virtually any age.

Treatment Options for ADHD

Woman talking to mental health professional

Some people with ADHD do very well with self-management. They invent strategies to help them focus, keep up with important tasks, and more. Many resources are available to help, so you should not hesitate to do some reading on your own.

Of course, professional care is also highly beneficial, especially for those who are new to their diagnosis or have severe symptoms. After a thorough psychiatric evaluation, our Austin team might recommend one or both of the following:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Pink sticky note that says, “cognitive behavioral therapy”

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a targeted form of talk therapy that aims to help you identify and manage thought patterns as well as the behaviors that stem from them. It involves clear goals along with “homework” between sessions. It is not meant to be a long-term commitment; most patients enjoy good results after a relatively short course of treatment (which may last a few months).

Medication Management

Person preparing to take medication

Certain medications can be effective for calming ADHD symptoms. If we prescribe any for you, we will check with you periodically to see how you are doing with them. We can adjust dosage and medications as necessary. The goal is to produce the best possible benefits while minimizing unwanted side effects.