Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects people of all ages. Whether it appears in childhood or continues into adulthood, ADHD can influence how a person learns, works, communicates, and feels. At Gianan Health, we provide thoughtful, individualized care for both children and adults living with ADHD, helping them understand their challenges and build skills for success.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts attention, impulsivity, and self-regulation. It is typically diagnosed in childhood but can persist into adolescence and adulthood. Some people are diagnosed early; others may not receive a diagnosis until later in life, sometimes after years of struggling with focus, organization, or emotional overwhelm without a clear explanation.
There are three primary types of ADHD:
- Inattentive Type – Difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganization
- Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – Restlessness, fidgeting, impulsive actions or speech
- Combined Type – A mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
Everyone with ADHD is different. Some individuals are quiet and like to daydream; others are high-energy and constantly in motion. Regardless of the outward signs, untreated ADHD can significantly affect quality of life.
ADHD in Children: More Than “Not Paying Attention”
Children with ADHD may struggle with focus, following instructions, sitting still, or managing emotions. This can affect school performance, peer relationships, and self-esteem. Without proper support, they may be labeled as disruptive, lazy, or defiant—when in reality, their brains are simply wired differently.
Common signs of ADHD in children include:
- Difficulty staying focused on schoolwork or tasks
- Frequent daydreaming or zoning out
- Trouble listening or following directions
- Fidgeting, talking excessively, or interrupting
- Losing things or being forgetful
- Emotional outbursts or frustration over small challenges
Untreated ADHD in children can lead to:
- Academic struggles or poor grades
- Conflict with teachers or classmates
- Feelings of failure or shame
- Increased risk of anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues
- Strained parent-child relationships
With the right care, children with ADHD can learn to thrive in school, home, and social environments. Early intervention helps them build confidence and gain tools that last into adulthood.
ADHD in Adults: Often Misunderstood, Frequently Missed
Many adults with ADHD were never diagnosed as children. They may have always felt “scattered,” overwhelmed, or unable to stay organized, but assumed their struggles were personal failings rather than signs of a treatable condition. Adult ADHD often presents differently than in children, making it harder to recognize.
Common signs of ADHD in adults include:
- Chronic disorganization or difficulty finishing tasks
- Trouble with time management or meeting deadlines
- Restlessness or feeling unable to relax
- Frequently losing track of belongings or appointments
- Impulsive decisions, interrupting in conversations
- Difficulty focusing in meetings or on long readings
- Emotional sensitivity, frustration, or irritability
When untreated, ADHD in adults can affect:
- Job performance or career advancement
- Financial stability (due to missed deadlines, impulsive spending, etc.)
- Relationships, due to forgetfulness, distraction, or miscommunication
- Mental health, including increased risk for anxiety, depression, or burnout
- Self-esteem, due to long-standing patterns of self-criticism or shame
Understanding that ADHD is not a matter of willpower but a condition rooted in brain function can be life-changing. With proper diagnosis and care, adults can develop strategies that work with their brain, not against it.
Diagnosis and Treatment at Gianan Health
Whether you’re seeking answers for yourself or your child, our team at Gianan Health takes the time to understand your concerns, symptoms, and goals. We use clinical evaluations and diagnostic tools to assess whether ADHD is present, and if so, what kind of care would be most helpful.
Treatment plans are always tailored to the individual and may include:
- Psychotherapy: Talk therapy can help individuals understand how ADHD affects their emotions, relationships, and habits. Therapy may focus on emotional regulation, behavior strategies, or problem-solving skills. For children, this may include parent support or collaboration with educators.
- Medication Management: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can be helpful for many individuals with ADHD. These are prescribed only after a thorough evaluation and are closely monitored to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Skill Building: Depending on the person’s needs, we may work on developing tools for organization, focus, and time management. Coaching-style interventions can be particularly useful for teens and adults navigating academic or work-related challenges.
- Collaborative Support: We believe in working alongside families, schools, and other providers when appropriate, especially for younger patients, to create an environment where care is consistent and supportive.
Support for ADHD in Bolingbrook, Naperville, and the Chicago Suburbs
ADHD doesn’t define a person, but when left unaddressed, it can shape how someone views themselves and their potential. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s focus or an adult finally connecting the dots in your own life, reaching out can open the door to greater understanding and relief.
At Gianan Health, we don’t believe in quick labels or one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in building relationships, offering thoughtful guidance, and supporting each client with clarity, care, and respect. We believe in prompt, timely care, so our new patients can expect to be scheduled within 1-2 weeks of reaching out. For appointments, call us today at 630-340-1620.