Published on Jan 11, 2024 | 3:40 PM
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Understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Across the Lifespan
ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. ADHD can begin in childhood and often continues into adulthood, though symptoms may change over time.
ADHD is not a character flaw or lack of effort. It is a brain-based condition that affects how the brain regulates focus, organization, and self-control.
ADHD is typically categorized into three presentations based on symptom patterns.
Predominantly inattentive presentation involves difficulty sustaining attention, organization challenges, forgetfulness, and distractibility.
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation includes restlessness, impulsive behavior, excessive talking, and difficulty waiting or sitting still.
Combined presentation includes features of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
ADHD symptoms vary by age and individual.
Children may struggle with attention, following instructions, impulsivity, and behavior regulation.
Adolescents and adults may experience difficulty with time management, organization, focus, emotional regulation, and task completion.
Because symptoms can overlap with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, or stress, ADHD is sometimes underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
ADHD has a strong genetic and neurobiological component.
Brain development differences, neurotransmitter regulation, and family history all play roles. Environmental factors may influence symptom severity, but ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, diet alone, or lack of discipline.
ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical evaluation, not a single test.
Diagnosis involves reviewing symptom history, duration, impact on daily functioning, and ruling out other conditions. Input from school, work, or family environments may be considered, especially for children.
ADHD treatment is individualized and often involves a combination of approaches.
Options may include behavioral strategies, organizational support, therapy, and medication. When appropriate, stimulant or non-stimulant medications can help improve focus, impulse control, and daily functioning under medical supervision.
Many adults are diagnosed with ADHD later in life.
Adult ADHD may present as chronic disorganization, difficulty managing responsibilities, restlessness, or emotional reactivity. Diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve quality of life, relationships, and work performance.
Evaluation is recommended when attention or impulse challenges interfere with school, work, relationships, or daily life.
Early identification allows for appropriate support and reduces the risk of secondary issues such as academic difficulties, low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression.
Call-On-Doc offers confidential, clinician-guided ADHD care through telehealth.
Through a virtual visit, patients can:
Discuss symptoms and concerns
Receive diagnostic guidance and treatment recommendations
Access ongoing care and medication management when appropriate
Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.
English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides. updated 01/29/2026 Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
Things You Can Do to Help Your Everyday Mental Health
Over 43 million Americans live with a mental health condition, and every day more people are speaking up and seeking support. While awareness has grown, finding a qualified, experienced psychiatrist can still be difficult—especially when long wait times, cost, or location become barriers.
One solution many people are turning to is online psychiatry, which can be an effective and flexible part of your long-term mental health care.
Dec 22, 2021 | 10:05 AM
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The Call-On-Doc Guide to Anxiety
Understanding Anxiety, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that can interfere with daily life. While occasional anxiety is a normal response to stress, anxiety disorders involve persistent symptoms that are difficult to control and often disproportionate to the situation.
Anxiety can affect thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and behavior, and it may occur on its own or alongside other mental or physical health conditions.
Feb 01, 2024 | 3:41 PM
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The Call-On-Doc Guide to Depression
Understanding Depression, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in mood, thinking, and physical functioning. Unlike temporary sadness, depression lasts for weeks or months and can significantly interfere with daily life.
Depression is a medical condition, not a personal weakness, and it can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.
Jan 16, 2024 | 3:43 PM
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Things You Can Do to Help Your Everyday Mental Health
Over 43 million Americans live with a mental health condition, and every day more people are speaking up and seeking support. While awareness has grown, finding a qualified, experienced psychiatrist can still be difficult—especially when long wait times, cost, or location become barriers.
One solution many people are turning to is online psychiatry, which can be an effective and flexible part of your long-term mental health care.
Dec 22, 2021 | 10:05 AM
The Call-On-Doc Guide to Anxiety
Understanding Anxiety, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that can interfere with daily life. While occasional anxiety is a normal response to stress, anxiety disorders involve persistent symptoms that are difficult to control and often disproportionate to the situation.
Anxiety can affect thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and behavior, and it may occur on its own or alongside other mental or physical health conditions.
Feb 01, 2024 | 3:41 PM
The Call-On-Doc Guide to Depression
Understanding Depression, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in mood, thinking, and physical functioning. Unlike temporary sadness, depression lasts for weeks or months and can significantly interfere with daily life.
Depression is a medical condition, not a personal weakness, and it can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.
Jan 16, 2024 | 3:43 PM
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