ADHD Misunderstandings

ADHD Misunderstandings

2 years ago

Perhaps the biggest misunderstanding about ADHD syndrome in adults is that it is one fixed condition that remains the same throughout the years. As I have discussed before, ADHD is best looked at on a continuum between normal behavior and areas of attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity that pose problems in day-to-day living. Our personalities evolve and adapt according to environment, culture, biology and other factors. The cookie-cutter approach that some expect to fix all aspects of what we call ADHD is a hindrance to appropriate management of the condition. One of the most difficult aspects of my work as a Cleveland area psychiatrist and physician treating ADHD conditions is to attempt to educate patients who believe a simple treatment such a such as a stimulant medication would fix all the problems in their lives. Patients have to go through the stages of disappointment and anger, bargaining and hopefully acceptance to be able to address and rebuild their lives in a bio psycho social and existential/spiritual context.

The Complex World of Psychiatric Diagnoses and Treatment: Why They Aren't "One Size Fits All"
The Complex World of Psychiatric Diagnoses and Treatment: Why They Aren't "One Size Fits All"
8 months ago

As a psychiatrist, I am well aware that the world of mental health is often far more complex than other medical disciplines. Psychiatric diagnoses and treatments can't always be treated like...

Criticism of Psychiatry
Criticism of Psychiatry
2 years ago

Psychiatry as a sub specialty of medicine is an easy field to criticize! Despite decades of search,  we still do not know the exact molecular basis of the most psychiatric illnesses. The co...

How do I know if I have ADHD?
How do I know if I have ADHD?
5 years ago

One of the more challenging aspects of my my work as a psychiatrist is when patients with good intentions come in to the office with a self-diagnosis of ADHD.  They are completely convinced af...