October is ADHD Awareness Month

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a brain-based disorder that poses a significant public health issue as it can affect people of all ages and from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Each October, health professionals seek to dispel myths about ADHD and distribute reliable, evidence-based information to those affected by ADHD as well as the general public to increase the understanding of this disorder.

Much has changed over the past 20 years in the scientific community’s understanding of ADHD and how to treat it. While it has been known under many other labels in the past, ADHD is the current diagnostic label for the condition characterized by difficulty with attention, impulsivity, and overactivity. ADHD has 3 subsets: Primary Inattentive Type, Primary Hyperactive/Impulsive Type, and Combined Type.

For anyone seeking an evaluation or treatment for ADHD, it is important to find a qualified, licensed medical professional who has experience with ADHD, likely a pediatrician, psychiatrist, or neurologist. Once a diagnosis is made, a team of experienced health professionals may help in the treatment including social workers, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, behavior specialists, and education specialists. The treatment plan, including therapy, behavior management techniques, educational accommodations, and medication, will be specific to each child, adolescent or adult and his or her needs.

During the month of October, Dr. Priti Kothari, M.D., a child and adult psychiatrist serving the South Florida area, encourages you to educate yourself and others on ADHD with current, scientifically based information on the disorder. Additional resources are available at ADHD Awareness Month and American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Kothari, M.D., is available for evaluation and treatment of ADHD as well as other mental health disorders, and works collaboratively with other medical professionals in the areas surrounding Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Parkland to provide the best, most up to date medical care for the treatment of ADHD. Dr. Kothari can be reached at (561) 483-0844 to schedule an initial or follow up consultation.