ADHD Treatment in Los Angeles, Burbank, and Las Vegas

Facing challenges with focus, swiftly shifting between tasks, or experiencing other signs of ADHD? You’re not alone, and help is at hand. At Psychiatry Unplugged, Dr. Soroya Bacchus, MD, specializes in understanding, diagnosing, and managing ADHD. Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis or looking for effective management strategies, we’re here to support you. Reach out to us or book an appointment online. With accessible locations in Los Angeles, Burbank, and Las Vegas, expert ADHD care is just a call away. We see patients from throughout California and Nevada including Glendale, Torrance, South Bay, San Diego, Reno, Laughlin, and North Las Vegas.

What is ADHD?


ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults.

• Definition: ADHD is a condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate their energy levels. While it’s commonly diagnosed in childhood, it can continue into adulthood.

• Neurodevelopmental Origin: This means that ADHD is related to the development of the nervous system. It’s believed that certain brain structures and brain functions might work differently in individuals with ADHD compared to those without the disorder.

• Inattention: Individuals with ADHD often find it challenging to sustain attention in tasks or play activities. They might overlook details, have difficulty organizing tasks, or frequently lose items necessary for tasks. It’s not just about being “distracted.” It’s a consistent pattern of inattention that interferes with daily functioning.

• Hyperactivity: This refers to excessive movement and restlessness. Children with ADHD might run or climb in inappropriate situations, while adults might feel an inner restlessness. It’s not just about being “energetic.” It’s a level of activity that’s beyond what’s expected for a person’s age.

• Impulsivity: Impulsivity in ADHD can manifest as hasty actions without forethought, which can lead to accidents or unintentional harm. Individuals might also interrupt others, have difficulty waiting their turn, or make decisions without considering the long-term consequences.

It’s essential to understand that ADHD is not a result of bad parenting, laziness, or lack of intelligence. It’s a complex disorder with various contributing factors, including genetics, brain injuries, environmental exposures during pregnancy, and more. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help individuals manage their symptoms and lead successful lives.

Causes and Risk Factors:

While the exact cause of ADHD is not known, several factors can increase the risk of developing the disorder:

• Genetics: ADHD tends to run in families. Children with a parent or sibling with ADHD are more likely to develop the disorder themselves.

• Brain Injuries: Children who have suffered a brain injury may show some symptoms of ADHD.

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to lead, typically found in older buildings’ paint, has been linked to ADHD-like behavior.

• Prenatal Exposures: Smoking, alcohol use, or drug use during pregnancy can increase the risk of ADHD in offspring.

• Premature Birth: Children born prematurely may have a higher risk of developing ADHD.

• Neurological Differences: Brain scans have shown that the brains of children with ADHD might develop differently than those without the disorder.

It’s crucial to understand that ADHD is not a result of bad parenting or a child being defiant. It’s a complex disorder with various contributing factors. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly benefit children, helping them navigate their daily lives more effectively.

What are the signs of ADHD?


How ADHD Shows Up in Kids:

• Inattention: Children with ADHD often:

  • Have difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play.
  • Are easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
  • Make careless mistakes in schoolwork.
  • Avoid or are reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.

• Hyperactivity: In children, this can manifest as:

  • Fidgeting or tapping hands or feet.
  • Inability to stay seated in situations where it’s expected.
  • Running or climbing in inappropriate situations.
  • Talking excessively.

• Impulsivity: In kids, impulsivity can appear as:

  • Blurting out answers before a question is completed.
  • Interrupting or intruding on others’ conversations or games.
  • Difficulty waiting for their turn.

How ADHD Shows Up in Adults:

While ADHD is often associated with children, many adults carry the disorder into their later years or are diagnosed in adulthood. The symptoms might evolve and manifest differently compared to childhood ADHD. Here’s a breakdown:

• Inattention: In adults, inattention might appear as:

  • Difficulty in organizing tasks and prioritizing them effectively.
  • Frequently losing items like keys, wallets, or phones.
  • Procrastination on tasks that require sustained attention.
  • Forgetfulness in daily activities, such as missing appointments or paying bills late.
  • Easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli, leading to unfinished tasks.

• Hyperactivity: In adults, hyperactivity can transform into:

  • Feelings of restlessness or getting bored easily.
  • Seeking constant activity or being involved in multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Talking excessively in conversations.
  • An inability to sit still during meetings or longer conversations.

• Impulsivity: For adults, impulsivity can manifest as:

  • Making hasty decisions without considering the long-term consequences.
  • Interrupting others during conversations or being socially intrusive.
  • Engaging in risky behaviors without thinking them through.
  • Difficulty in waiting or showing patience in various situations.

Challenges Faced by Adults with ADHD:

Adults with ADHD might face specific challenges that can impact their personal and professional lives, such as:

• Struggles with time management and meeting deadlines.
• Difficulties in maintaining relationships due to forgetfulness or perceived negligence.
• Job changes or academic struggles due to inconsistency in performance.
• Low self-esteem or feelings of underachievement.

It’s essential to recognize that ADHD in adults is not a sign of laziness or lack of discipline. It’s a genuine neurodevelopmental disorder that requires understanding and support. With proper diagnosis and treatment, adults with ADHD can lead fulfilling and successful lives.

How is ADHD diagnosed?


Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms and to identify co-existing conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

• Medical Examination: A physical examination can help rule out other causes of symptoms, such as thyroid problems or neurological disorders. It often includes hearing and vision tests to eliminate other potential causes of attention difficulties.

• Clinical Interview: A healthcare professional will discuss the individual’s symptoms, their duration, and the impact on daily functioning. For children, this often involves talking to parents or teachers about the child’s behavior.

• Behavioral Observations: Direct observations of the individual’s behavior can provide insights. For children, this might involve observing them in a classroom setting or at home.

• ADHD Rating Scales: These are standardized forms that ask about specific behaviors related to ADHD symptoms. Both the individual (or their parents) and teachers or other adults might fill out these scales to provide a comprehensive view.

• Psychological Testing: Sometimes, psychological tests are used to measure IQ or to identify learning disabilities, which can co-exist with ADHD.

• Diagnostic Criteria: The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides criteria for diagnosing ADHD. The symptoms must be chronic, impair daily functioning, and not be better explained by another condition.

Differences in Diagnosis Between Children and Adults:

• Children: Diagnosis in children often involves a more significant emphasis on teacher feedback, school performance, and parental observations. The symptoms must be present in two or more settings, such as at school and at home.

• Adults: For adults, the diagnostic process might delve into their childhood to identify early life symptoms, even if they weren’t diagnosed at that time. Feedback from significant others, spouses, or close friends can be valuable. The criteria for adults are slightly different, recognizing that hyperactivity may manifest more as restlessness and impulsivity might involve making hasty decisions.

It’s essential to understand that ADHD diagnosis is not based on a single test. It’s a comprehensive evaluation that considers multiple sources of information. Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

How is ADHD treated?

Treating ADHD typically involves a combination of medical, educational, behavioral, and psychological interventions. The approach is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the treatment modalities:

• Medication: Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based stimulants (Adderall), are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They help increase attention and concentration by enhancing certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Non-stimulant medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv), might be prescribed when stimulants aren’t effective or cause undesirable side effects.

• Behavioral Therapy: This involves helping individuals develop skills to manage their behavior and cope with challenging situations. For children, it might include techniques to improve organization, complete schoolwork, and interact positively with peers. Parents might also receive training to better support and guide their children.

• Psychoeducation: Understanding ADHD and its effects can be empowering. Psychoeducation provides individuals and families with information about the disorder, helping them make informed decisions about treatment and interventions.

• Counseling: Individual or family counseling can address the emotional and psychological challenges associated with ADHD, such as low self-esteem or relationship difficulties.

• Lifestyle Interventions: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can significantly impact ADHD symptoms. Mindfulness practices and meditation might also be beneficial for some individuals.

• Social Skills Training: This is especially relevant for children who might struggle with making friends or understanding social cues. It involves teaching skills like taking turns, sharing, and reading social situations.

• Educational Support: Children with ADHD might benefit from individualized education plans, tutoring, or classroom accommodations to support their learning needs.

Differences in Treatment Between Children and Adults:

• Children: Treatment for children often involves a combination of medication and behavioral interventions. Parent training and family therapy can also be crucial components. Educational support, including classroom accommodations, can make a significant difference in academic success.

• Adults: While medication remains a primary treatment option for adults, counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy often play a more prominent role. These therapies can address challenges like time management, organizational skills, and workplace issues. Support groups can also provide adults with ADHD a platform to share experiences and coping strategies.

It’s essential to recognize that ADHD treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Regular monitoring and adjustments are necessary to ensure that the interventions are effective and meet the evolving needs of the individual.