ADHD Treatment in Philadelphia
Looking for information on ADHD? I hope this guide can help. If you are looking for a psychiatrist for ADHD in the Philadelphia area, call or submit an inquiry today to set up your appointment.
With some states like New Jersey now requiring in-person appointments for stimulant medications, I am happy to see you in my Rittenhouse office, conveniently located in Center City Philadelphia.
How do I know if I have ADHD?
Not everyone is diagnosed with ADHD in childhood, as is often taught. Many people simply fall through the cracks, or find ways to compensate for undiagnosed ADHD. Even if you are a successful professional, that does not mean you cannot have ADHD.
The best way to find out your diagnosis is through a thorough evaluation by an experienced psychiatrist.
I feel like I have become more forgetful and disorganized. Does that mean I have ADHD now?
ADHD is a chronic condition, not one that suddenly develops in adulthood. That said, many people with ADHD are still able to lead successful lives without any diagnosis or treatment. When life becomes stressful - new job, relationship troubles, becoming a parent - it can get harder to mask things. Knowing your underlying diagnosis could be the key to your success.
Social media told me that [insert personality quirk] is a sign of ADHD. Is it true?
Probably not. Just like people with high blood pressure can have all different types of personalities and things that make them unique, so can people with ADHD.
I have anxiety and ADHD. Can both be treated?
They can both be treated through therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Typically, if medication is being considered, I will recommend focusing on treating the anxiety first. Stimulant medications can often lead to worsening anxiety if not monitored properly. Non-stimulant medications for ADHD are another good choice in this situation.
Can ADHD be misdiagnosed?
Absolutely. Many other conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and more, can present with features of ADHD. This is why self-reporting symptoms without a psychiatrist’s guidance is not always effective when diagnosing ADHD. I have seen many patients with possible ADHD who ultimately end up being treated for depression, and their focus improves.
Does having ADHD mean I need to take medication forever?
Not by a long shot. While many patients find medication effective, it is not required and certainly not the only tool available to get better. As I tell patients: a medication may help you focus, but it is still up to you what you choose to focus on.
Do you prescribe medication for ADHD?
Yes, when indicated. This can include stimulant medications or other non-stimulant alternatives. My approach is to use the lowest effective dose of medication to avoid unwanted side effects.
How can I find a pharmacy that carries my ADHD medication?
In recent years there has been a shortage of ADHD medications nationally. It can often be hard to locate pharmacies that keep common medications in stock, such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, or Vyvanse.
There are many alternative medications now available, including new stimulants, that I am comfortable prescribing in these situations. They are more readily available and can be useful for patients who are unable to locate the more common, older medications.