Courtesy of Well Life Medicine

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and can continue through adolescence and into adulthood. Symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior, and hyperactivity. Undiagnosed ADHD is linked to anxiety, depression, social disfunction, self-harm, and significantly higher risk of unemployment, substance abuse, and obesity associated with binge eating disorder.

ADHD is among the most common mental disorders in children and teens, but plenty of adults have it too. Experts used to think that children “grew out” of ADHD. But, studies show that more than 60% of children with ADHD still have it as adults. It is estimated that adult ADHD affects more than 8 million adults. Several studies suggest less than 20% of adults with ADHD are aware that they have it, and only about a fourth of those who do know are getting treatment for it.

Medication can be used to effectively treat ADHD symptoms of impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity, and is the single most effective treatment for reducing ADHD symptoms.

Adult ADHD can affect your career, relationships, and other aspects of daily life. In fact, it costs the U.S. economy up to $138 billion a year in lost income and productivity. So, why do so few adults who weren’t diagnosed as kids realize they have it?

As an adult, you probably no longer have obvious hyperactive symptoms, although you may still have issues like impulsiveness and problems with executive function. So, if you weren’t diagnosed as a child, your symptoms could be overlooked.

Also, ADHD tends to occur along with other mental health issues. Anxiety, for example, affects about half of adults with ADHD. Symptoms of adult ADHD can be mistaken for conditions like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.

Fortunately, ongoing research over the past 20 years has led to the development of the QbTest, which is the first and only FDA-cleared medical technology that helps evaluate ADHD. It provides objective data on patients’ core ADHD symptoms — hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, and offers insights into treatment effects. It also reduces the chance of age and gender bias.

The QbTest is a computer-based assessment performed at home that utilizes motion tracking to observe your movements while you complete tasks on a computer screen. The test measures your ability to stay focused and control your actions over about 15 to 20 minutes. The test is used alongside other discussions and assessments with your medical provider to help make informed decisions about your treatment.

If you are struggling with symptoms associated with ADHD, including anxiety, depression, obesity, or binge eating disorder, visit https://welllifenow.com/contact/ to learn more about the QbTest and schedule a consultation with Mary Rykert-Wolf, MD at Well Life Medicine.