ADHD in Adults and Children: Spotting the Signs Early

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more than just restlessness or the inability to focus. It’s a neurological condition that affects both children and adults in profound ways. Recognizing the signs early can lead to better outcomes, improved coping strategies, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.

At Favor Mental Health Services in Bel Air, Maryland, we understand that early diagnosis and intervention make all the difference. Whether you're a parent noticing unusual behaviors in your child or an adult wondering why you’ve always struggled with focus, structure, or impulsivity, this guide will help you understand what ADHD looks like—and what to do next.

What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It typically begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. Though it is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders in children, many adults remain undiagnosed, leading to challenges in their personal, academic, and professional lives.

ADHD manifests in three primary ways:

Inattentive Type – Difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, disorganization.
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – Excessive activity, impulsivity, restlessness.
Combined Type – Symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Spotting ADHD in Children

Children are naturally energetic and distracted at times, so distinguishing ADHD from typical childhood behavior can be challenging. However, the key lies in persistence, intensity, and how much these behaviors interfere with daily life.

Common Signs in Children

Inattention
- Easily distracted and forgetful
- Trouble organizing tasks and following through
- Frequently loses things (toys, homework, etc.)
- Avoids tasks requiring mental effort
Hyperactivity
- Constant motion, even when seated
- Talks excessively
- Trouble staying quiet during activities
- Frequently gets up when expected to stay seated
Impulsivity
- Interrupts others
- Blurts out answers
- Trouble waiting for their turn

If these signs appear before age 12 and are present in more than one setting (home, school, social), it may be time to consider a consultation to psychiatrist for evaluation.

Recognizing ADHD in Adults

ADHD often looks different in adults than in children. By adulthood, some hyperactive behaviors may decrease, but inattention and impulsivity often persist. Many adults discover they have ADHD only after their child is diagnosed.

Common Signs in Adults

Disorganization and Forgetfulness
- Chronic lateness
- Frequently losing items (keys, phones)
- Trouble prioritizing tasks
Emotional Dysregulation
- Mood swings
- Easily frustrated
- Low tolerance for stress
Impulsivity
- Reckless spending
- Interrupting others
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Restlessness
- Inner anxiety or racing thoughts
- Trouble relaxing or sitting still

If you've long suspected something was different but couldn't quite pinpoint it, it's not too late. A psychiatrist near me at Favor Mental Health Services can help you find clarity and develop a path forward.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early diagnosis of ADHD can dramatically improve a person’s trajectory. It allows for early intervention, which may include behavioral therapy, accommodations in school or work, and possibly medication. For children, early support can prevent secondary problems like academic failure or low self-esteem. For adults, it can mean a fresh start with new tools for managing life more effectively.

Without diagnosis, individuals with ADHD often struggle with:

Poor academic or job performance
Frequent relationship conflicts
Financial or legal troubles
Mental health issues like anxiety and depression

Seeking treatment in Maryland through qualified providers can prevent these outcomes and empower individuals to thrive.

Getting Diagnosed: What to Expect

At Favor Mental Health Services, we offer a compassionate, thorough diagnostic process tailored to both children and adults. Here’s what you can expect from an ADHD evaluation:

1. Initial Assessment

We begin with a detailed medical and behavioral history, including input from parents, teachers, or spouses when appropriate.

2. Clinical Interviews

Structured interviews help us evaluate symptoms against DSM-5 criteria for ADHD.

3. Behavior Rating Scales

These standardized tools help measure symptom severity and impact on daily functioning.

4. Rule Out Other Conditions

Many other conditions—like anxiety, depression, or learning disorders—can mimic ADHD. We make sure to rule those out for an accurate diagnosis.

ADHD and Co-Occurring Conditions

ADHD often occurs alongside other mental health challenges, especially when it goes untreated. Common co-occurring conditions include:

Anxiety Disorders
Depression
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Learning Disabilities
Substance Use Disorders

These overlapping conditions make professional diagnosis and personalized treatment even more important. A consultation to psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive view of your mental health.

Treatment Options for ADHD

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” treatment for ADHD, but most people benefit from a combination of strategies. At Favor Mental Health Services, we customize care based on your unique needs.

1. Medication

Stimulants (like Adderall or Ritalin) and non-stimulants (like Strattera) are commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms. These medications are safe and effective when monitored by a qualified psychiatrist near me.

2. Behavioral Therapy

Helps develop coping strategies, improve social skills, and manage time and tasks.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Focuses on reframing negative thought patterns and developing self-control.

4. Parent Training and Family Therapy

Educates parents on how to support their child’s behavior and emotions in constructive ways.

5. School Accommodations

504 Plans or IEPs can provide classroom support like extended testing time, seating arrangements, or homework assistance.

ADHD Support for Adults at Favor Mental Health Services

Adults with ADHD often feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or ashamed of their struggles. We offer specialized support designed to help you thrive:

Time management coaching
Organizational skills training
Medication management
Stress reduction techniques
Support groups and individual counseling

If you’ve been searching for a psychiatrist near me who understands adult ADHD and offers treatment in Maryland, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Choose Favor Mental Health Services?

Located conveniently in Suite 9b, 260 Gateway Drive, Bel Air, Maryland 21014, Favor Mental Health Services offers expert, empathetic care in a warm and welcoming environment.

What Sets Us Apart?

Experienced psychiatrists and therapists specializing in ADHD
Child, adolescent, and adult mental health services
Insurance-friendly options and flexible scheduling
Personalized treatment plans based on your goals and lifestyle
Easy access to both in-person and telepsychiatry consultations

You deserve care that sees the whole picture—not just a diagnosis. Let’s work together to build a path forward.

When to Seek Help

Whether you're seeing red flags in your child or noticing long-standing struggles in yourself, don’t wait. The earlier you seek help, the sooner you can unlock better outcomes.

Signs it’s time to seek help:

Academic or job struggles despite effort
Relationship conflicts stemming from distractibility or emotional reactivity
Constant disorganization or forgetfulness
Excessive restlessness, impulsivity, or burnout

Book your consultation to psychiatrist today at Favor Mental Health Services and take the first step toward clarity and control.

Final Thoughts

ADHD doesn’t define you or your child—it’s simply a part of your brain’s wiring. With the right support, you can learn to harness its strengths and manage its challenges effectively. At Favor Mental Health Services in Bel Air, Maryland, we are here to walk alongside you with expertise, compassion, and real solutions.

Don’t go it alone. Whether you’re searching for treatment in Maryland or a trusted psychiatrist near me, our team is ready to help.

Ready to take the next step?

📍 Visit us: Suite 9b, 260 Gateway Drive, Bel Air, Maryland 21014

📞 Call us: 410-403-3299

🌐 Website: https://www.favormentalhealthservices.com/

Book your consultation to psychiatrist today and let’s begin the journey to better mental health—together.