Julie Hall, MD
Psychiatrist located in Los Angeles, CA
Attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are conditions that often impact young children and their ability to focus and stay still. But adults can also struggle with attention-deficit issues, too. Whether you suspect you have ADD or ADHD, or if you need help managing symptoms of a previous diagnosis, psychiatrist Dr. Julie M. Hall can help. With flexible scheduling at her Los Angeles office, you can get the treatment you need for yourself or your child.
ADD and ADHD Q & A
Is there a difference between ADD and ADHD?
Yes, but not much. The terms ADD and ADHD are often used interchangeably, although using ADD is somewhat outdated. Both describe disorders in which a person has a hard time focusing or paying attention. Usually when you’re also impulsive or hyperactive, the diagnosis is ADHD. “Inattentive ADHD” is the newer term for the disorder when hyperactivity or impulsiveness is not involved.
What symptoms will I notice?
The most noticeable symptom of ADD and ADHD is the inability to stay focused. You might be generally unorganized, have difficulty finishing a task, or not pay attention when someone is speaking to you. It’s also possible that you may have daydreams that further impact your ability to focus.
Some patients with attention disorders tend to do things on a whim, without thinking about the consequences. A child with ADHD might make spur-of-the-moment decisions, act out, or regularly interrupt others. The child may squirm or fidget, because hyperactive patients tend to be constantly moving or speaking.
How are ADD and ADHD treated?
It depends on the patient’s symptoms and age. Most patients, both children and adults, benefit from counseling. Working one-on-one with Dr. Hall gives her the opportunity to observe your behaviors. This way she can teach you how to overcome issues associated with ADD and ADHD, including losing things, getting distracted, being disruptive, or always running late.
You may also benefit from medication, such as a stimulant. These types of prescriptions help you focus and stay clear-minded. In some cases, stimulants can even prevent impulsive behavior. For some patients, a non-stimulant medication, such as an antidepressant, can help the brain control erratic behaviors. Usually patients have the most success with a combination of counseling and medication. But Dr. Hall will figure out the most beneficial treatment for your specific needs.
Can I outgrow ADD and ADHD?
Possibly. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders are brain-based. Research suggests that as you grow, the prefrontal cortex of your brain also grows and matures, possibly causing symptoms to decrease. While you might not necessarily “outgrow” ADD or ADHD, your symptoms will probably be less severe as an adult, or they could gradually lessen over time.