ADHD FAQs

ADHD is a term that is sometimes overused and the symptoms can often look similar to those of depression or anxiety.

This is a key reason why your best bet is to make an appointment with a licensed healthcare provider and get formally tested.

With that being said, there are a lot of questions that we get from people so we decided to answer some of them here.

BrainWell Psychiatry answers your FAQs about ADHD.
 

How Can I Tell If I Have ADHD?

The only way to really know if you have ADHD is to see a doctor and get tested.

ADHD has a number of symptoms that can easily be confused with conditions like depression or anxiety.

The process of understanding ADHD starts with a visit to your doctor or a psychiatrist like Dr Dunkin. At your visit you will be guided through a comprehensive testing process to help you identify if you have ADHD and what your next steps might be if you are.

 
What are some key symptoms of ADHD?

Are You Born With ADHD?

No one knows exactly what causes ADHD but there are things that we know play a role in the condition.

Clinical studies have shown that there is a strong genetic element to ADHD and if your parents have it then there is a more than 50% chance that at least one of their children will be born with it.

Some things thought to play a role in the development of ADHD include:

  • low birth weight

  • premature birth

  • difficult pregnancy

  • exposure to lead

What Things Can Make ADHD Worse?

There are some day to day things that are common culprits in making ADHD symptoms worse.

Some common triggers include:

  • Lack of exercise

  • Processed foods

  • Too much screen time

  • Lack of sleep

  • A cluttered environment

  • Stress


Can a Blood Test Reveal ADHD?

A clinical trial was done in 2011 that explored the possibility that a new blood test that measures something called blood cell membrane potential (expressed as membrane potential ratio [MPR™]) could diagnose ADHD.

The study did find differing levels of MPR for ADHD subjects compared to those who did not have ADHD, but there hasn’t been much research done to explore this further.

While there is a genetic component to ADHD doctors do not use blood tests to diagnose ADHD. Typically ADHD is diagnosed using specific diagnostic criteria such as the DSM-5.

Tests like QbTest are increasingly being used as an objective way to test for ADHD.

What type of ADHD testing does BrainWell Psychiatry use in its clinic?
 

Who Is QB Tech?

Established in 2002, Qbtech is a Swedish company specializing in ADHD diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up solutions.

With operations in 13 countries and offices in Stockholm, Houston, and London, Qbtech has received recognition for innovation, including the 2022 HSJ Partnership Award for the 'Best Mental Health Partnership with the NHS'.

Learn more at www.qbtech.com.

 

What alternatives are there to Adderall?

Some alternatives to Adderall include:

  • Concerta

  • Focalin

  • Focalin XR

  • Intuniv

  • Kapvay

  • Metadate CD

 
How can I tell if I have ADHD? ADHD has a number of symptoms that can easily be confused with conditions like depression or anxiety.

What Are Some Of The Key Symptoms Of ADHD?

The symptoms of ADHD can look different for adolescents and adults and between males and females.

That being said, some of the more common symptoms of ADHD include:

  • Forgetfulness

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Restlessness

  • Impulsiveness

  • Trouble completing tasks

What Happens if ADHD Goes Untreated?

Untreated ADHD can end up leading to some unwanted behaviors like:

  • Impulsiveness

  • Forgetfulness

  • Low tolerance for frustration

  • Mood swings

  • Poor listening skills

  • Difficulties at school or work

  • Relationship challenges

  • Poor time management

  • Restlessness

How Does ADHD Affect Sleep?

ADHD can have a significant impact on your sleep.

Studies have shown that “individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently have sleep disturbances, daytime sleepiness”. 

ADHD impairs the regulation of brain activity and often affects sleep patterns.

  • ADHD can increase the time it takes to fall asleep, the chance of sleep disruptions, and the risk of sleep deprivation.

  • People with ADHD are more likely to develop sleep disorders, although they frequently go undiagnosed.

  • While medication can improve symptoms of ADHD, behavioral changes and a nightly routine can help individuals sleep better.

What Type Of ADHD Testing Do You Use?

At BrainWell Psychiatry, we trust the amazing QbTest technology!

BrainWell psychiatry makes use of the QbTest technology for their ADHD testing. This technology gives clinicians unbiased data so that they can make the most confident and factual decisions in their ADHD diagnosis and treatment. 

QbTest is a market-leading objective ADHD test, supported by over 35 independent research studies and trusted by clinicians around the globe.

The QbTest evaluates core ADHD symptoms using a 15-20-minute computer-based assessment that instantly compares your results to people that are similar to you.

This objective data helps your provider to personalize your treatment plan specifically for you and your condition, helping to speed up the healing process.

Best ADHD Medication For Adults?

Some of the most common medications prescribed for the treatment of ADHD include:

  • amphetamines (including lisdexamfetamine),

  • atomoxetine,

  • bupropion,

  • clonidine,

  • guanfacine,

  • methylphenidate, and

  • modafinil.