ADHD

What is attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral and cognitive condition that affects both children and adults. ADHD makes paying attention, following instructions, and completing tasks difficult. 

Your child may have ADHD if they do not outgrow behaviors such as:

• Lack of attention when spoken to
• Inability to follow instructions
• Inability to follow through on tasks
• Forgetfulness or being easily distracted
• Talking fast or impulsively 
• Difficulty focusing for an extended time
• Inability to sit still 
• Constant movement or restlessness
• Impulsive running, jumping, or climbing

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children with ADHD may struggle in school, in social interactions, and with self-confidence. The Virginia Pediatric Group providers are experts at diagnosis, treatment, long-term management, and family support of children with ADHD. 

How is ADHD diagnosed?

An accurate ADHD diagnosis begins with knowledgeable evaluation and early developmental assessment. As part of their comprehensive care, your providers regularly assess your child for signs of ADHD and other cognitive and behavioral disorders during their well-child visits. 

If your provider suspects your child has ADHD, you and your child's teacher will be asked to complete the National Initiative for Children's Healthcare Quality (NICHQ) Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and schedule an in-office consultation. 

What happens during an initial consultation for ADHD?

Both you and your child must be present for the initial consultation. When you come to your in-office consultation with your provider, bring:

• Completed NICHQ Vanderbilt forms
• Relevant reports or assessments from your child's school
• Reports or records from your child's pediatric or adolescent therapist
• Your child's medications and detailed medication history
• List of clinical psychologists and neuropsychologists covered by your insurance

Your provider may ask both of you questions regarding symptoms, behavioral, psychological, and mental health history. Depending on their assessment during the initial consultation, your provider may recommend further evaluation, a personalized treatment plan, or follow-up care. 

What happens after an initial ADHD consultation?

After your physician diagnoses your child with ADHD, they develop a personalized care plan that may include medication, behavioral therapy, nutritional support, or family counseling. 

Ongoing ADHD management may include: 

• Medication follow-up within two to four weeks of starting or changing medication
• Four to six follow-up visits within the first year after diagnosis
• At least two visits per year once the medications are established 
• Regular assessment for mental, emotional, and educational challenges
• Regularly updated assessments by parent and teacher 
• Telemedicine follow-up visits 
• Specialist referrals, as needed

Virginia Pediatric Group providers work alongside their behavioral health, psychological, and educational services team to help identify and treat common problems often associated with ADHD, including anxiety, depression, autism, and other developmental delays. 

Your pediatrician remains available to support both you and your children throughout their childhood journey to live their life well with ADHD.

For compassionate, supportive management of your child's ADHD, call Virginia Pediatric Group or schedule an appointment online today.