ADHD versus Bipolar: What Are the Differences?

/0 Comments/in /by

ADHD versus Bipolar: What Are the Differences?

ADHD versus Bipolar: What Are the Differences? | Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJ

ADHD versus Bipolar: What Are the Differences?

Life can be hard enough in children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Unfortunately, comorbidities can make matters even more challenging, whether trying to succeed at school or work. Bipolar disorder is more likely to occur in children and adults with ADHD by several fold. What is bipolar disorder, how is it diagnosed, and how does it change ADHD treatment plans?

Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating manic and depressive phases. Depressive phases of bipolar disorder are characterized by feelings of hopelessness and loss of interest in activities. Meanwhile, restlessness, impulsivity, defiant behavior, and inattention are often experienced during manic episodes. While ADHD and bipolar disorder can often coexist (up to 70% of those with bipolar also have ADHD), the two disorders can also be confused with one another since the symptoms of both manic and depressive episodes often overlap with ADHD symptoms.

ADHD is a developmental disorder that affects attention and ability to prioritize tasks and schedules. Those with ADHD often experience inattention, restlessness, insomnia, and quick loss of interest in actives that use to bring joy and excitement. Bipolar disorder, on the other hand, is a mood disorder even though it could mimic signs of ADHD. The key difference is ADHD is constant and more situationally dependent. Whenever a task demands self-regulation or executive control, an individual with ADHD will struggle.  Bipolar, conversely, is less situational and constant. Depressive and manic phases of bipolar come and go as they please, with very little dependent on context and environment. 

Another difference in the manic symptoms of bipolar and the racing thoughts of ADHD is discussed on ADDITUDE.com, “People with ADHD report racing thoughts, which they can grasp and appreciate but can’t necessarily express or record quickly enough. With mania, the patient’s racing thoughts flash by like a flock of birds overtaking them so fast that their color and type is impossible to discern.” It may take a professional to discern the subtle differences. At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates, we have many experts here to help make an accurate diagnosis. 

While it is possible to differentiate between bipolar disorder and ADHD, it is also possible that they can occur at same time. The overlap happens quite often. However, too often one of the two is misdiagnosed or masked by the other. It is important to make an accurate assessment because the treatment depends on it. For instance, stimulants are effective treatments for ADHD, but may exacerbate manic episodes of bipolar. The accuracy of treatment is also important because the outcomes depend on it. For instance, those with bipolar disorder are up to fifteen times more likely to attempt suicide. 

If you or loved one is experiencing symptoms of ADHD and/ or bipolar disorder, please contact Pathways today! We can help you make sense of your symptoms and get you on the right track with our seasoned professionals.

LET’S GET STARTED

The post ADHD versus Bipolar: What Are the Differences? appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
ADHD versus Bipolar: What Are the Differences?

Partners in crime: The Two A’s, Anxiety and ADHD

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Partners in crime: The Two A’s, Anxiety and ADHD

Anxiety and ADHD

Partners in crime: The Two A’s, Anxiety and ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety are true partners in crime. While they are two different diagnoses, they are intimately linked. People with ADHD experiencing tardiness, shortcomings, stigma, procrastination, and uncertainty often experience situational anxiety at the very least. This means that their ADHD symptoms are directly causing stress and feelings of anxiousness. If you have difficulty concentrating in school or if you are forgetful at work, of course you may be anxious and uncertain about the future. 

General anxiety can also occur in those with ADHD, perhaps up to 50% of the time. In fact, when it comes to ADHD, general anxiety is the number one comorbidity. In those individuals, severe chronic anxiety interrupts normal tasks with relentless anxiousness and nervousness. While symptoms of ADHD can promote anxiety as described above, the link between ADHD and general anxiety are not completely understood. We do know, however, that the severity of anxiety symptoms can be enhanced by ADHD and vise versa. 

Some symptoms of anxiety and ADHD overlap. For instance, restlessness and difficulty concentrating are common to both. Therefore, it is important to seek a professional evaluation to differentiate between the two diagnoses (Pathways Neuropsychology Associates has many experts that can help!). However, there are some tricks and whistles that can help point you in a general direction: ADHD inattention occurs in almost any situation whereas anxiety-related inattention usually occurs while experiencing anxiousness.

Understanding one’s diagnoses is very important when ADHD and anxiety occur at the same time. For instance, emotional regulation and executive function are typically deficient in those with ADHD. Consequentially, those with ADHD may have difficulty in organizing tasks and may become fixated on shortcomings and uncertainties, ruminating over emotionally distressful thoughts. This is a recipe for disaster when it comes to anxiety. It is therefore imperative to address the symptoms of ADHD to also prevent severe anxiety symptoms from flaring up.

The treatments of ADHD and anxiety sometimes go together and sometimes oppose one another. For instance, stimulants such as amphetamines are a typical treatment for ADHD. Alleviating symptoms of ADHD may help with anxiety, but it is also important to note that anxiety itself can often be a side effect of stimulants. Therefore, it is important to strategize best with your healthcare provider to address everyone’s case. Most likely, a combination of medication and therapy will best help tackle the double threat of ADHD and anxiety.

If you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing ADHD and anxiety, contact Pathways Neuropsychology Associates today to get a professional evaluation. At Pathways, we have experts in both ADHD and anxiety that can help address both diagnoses.

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Partners in crime: The Two A’s, Anxiety and ADHD appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Partners in crime: The Two A’s, Anxiety and ADHD

Depression and ADHD: Partners in Crime?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Depression and ADHD: Partners in Crime?

Depression and ADHD Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJ

Depression and ADHD: Partners in Crime?

Trouble focusing, eating habit changes, and trouble sleeping can all be signs of both ADHD and major depression. However, the two are not the same. While sometimes they can be confused with one another, they can also sometimes both co-occur. When ADHD and major depression co-exist, we call them comorbid or coexisting conditions. How are the two disorders linked and how can we tell them apart?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain’s executive functions, which helps us plan, focus, and execute tasks. It is most often diagnosed in male children, but it can also affect young girls and adults as well. You can think of ADHD as a deficit in the “management headquarters” of the brain, which depends on the regulation of the neurotransmitter called dopamine. 

Major depressive disorder, on the other hand, is persistent sadness, helplessness, and low self-esteem that lasts at least two weeks and affects daily functioning and possibly sleep. Unlike ADHD, major depression is a mood disorder and not a deficit in executive function.

While ADHD and major depression are different diagnoses, they both feature symptoms that can overlap. Up to 30% of patients with ADHD also have a serious mood disorder such as major depression. Moreover, ADHD symptoms can help promote major depressive disorder. For instance, if a young student with ADHD is feeling hopeless and insecure about school and their future, then they may have an increased likelihood of developing major depression. When this occurs, it is called “secondary depression.” What makes matters more difficult is that those with ADHD have difficulty with emotional regulation due to cognitive function impairment. Therefore, negative thoughts that help contribute to depression may be harder to “shake off” with those with ADHD.

It is important to get proper evaluations in order to answer the question “ADHD, depression, or both?” While symptoms overlap in both diagnoses, the root problem is different. Therefore, the treatment and management may be different as well. 

The good news for those with both ADHD and major depression is that the medications for both can usually be taken together. Moreover, cognitive behavior therapy might be a good option that can help with both diagnoses. However, it is important to talk to your physician about the best treatment plan. Moreover, when both symptoms of depression and ADHD are present, it is important to prioritize based on the severity of symptoms. For instance, suicidal ideation can be a feature of major depression and should be treated right away. 

If you are or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of ADHD and/or depression, contact Pathways for a professional evaluation today to help make the best shared decision with your doctor. 

The Pathways team of professionals has helped thousands of people with ADHD. We are Dedicated to effective and compassionate care for individuals with neurological challenges.

The post Depression and ADHD: Partners in Crime? appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Depression and ADHD: Partners in Crime?

Times Report: TikTok Users Providing Help for Adult ADHD

/0 Comments/in , /by

Times Report: TikTok Users Providing Help for Adult ADHD

Times Report: TikTok Users Providing Help for Adult ADHD

Times Report: TikTok Users Providing Help for Adult ADHD

The diagnosis, research, and treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have long been biased towards young white boys. Often, women of color have been ignored and left undiagnosed until adulthood. According to a recent article in New York Times, the neglect of adult women with ADHD may be changing.

Through social media efforts, many influencers are now bringing attention to adult ADHD, exposing misconceptions and providing descriptions of ADHD symptoms and subclasses. While social media platforms such as TikTok are not replacements for professional testing and diagnoses, the posts are bringing to light much needed awareness for those who have been struggling with symptoms without knowing why or what to do. Although ADHD is largely considered a developmental disorder, many may not be diagnosed until adulthood due to medical biases and lack of patient understanding.

Feeling empowered with new knowledge, women are now becoming their own advocates and seeking professional assistance. The support, community, and encouragement are especially important for women of color who have long faced implicit bias from the medical community. 

While social media might be a first step in awareness, it does not replace professional diagnostics and therapeutics. If you believe you have symptoms of adult ADHD, reach out to Pathways Neuropsychology Associates at (732) 930-2242 to set up a comprehensive evaluation. With an impressive multidisciplinary team, Pathways can offer a wide range of interventions and strategies to help you improve your personal, professional, and social lives. 

Check out the article

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Times Report: TikTok Users Providing Help for Adult ADHD appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Times Report: TikTok Users Providing Help for Adult ADHD

Cognitive Effects of COVID-19

/0 Comments/in , /by

Cognitive Effects of COVID-19

Cognitive Effects of COVID-19 Brain Fog | Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJ

Cognitive Effects of COVID-19

All over social media and the news, COVID-19 brain fog is the talk of the town. But what causes the neurological effects? SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 disease, can affect brain health either directly or indirectly. 

First, the virus can directly infect the cells of the brain or surrounding tissue and cause inflammation, a process known as encephalitis. Secondly, because the virus affects blood vessels and blood clotting, COVID-19 may possibly restrict oxygen to the brain. Brain damage can result if too little oxygen is supplied to the brain. The resulting brain damage can lead to neuropsychological effects such as anxiety, depression, memory loss, and “brain fog”. 

The more severe the illness, the higher the likelihood COVID-19 survivors will experience these cognitive defects. However, even mild illnesses can lead to neurological symptoms such as brain fog, which can start shortly after COVID-19 disease and last for months after recovery.

Unlike anxiety and depression, brain fog is not a medical term. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, brain fog has been used to describe general cognitive haziness or difficulty thinking. Some also report tiredness and attention deficits. Scientists are still trying to figure out the cause of brain fog, but many believe it is due to the brain inflammation and blood clotting as described above. Many questions, however, remain unanswered. For instance, we do not know how long COVID-19 associated brain fog lasts.

What can you do to prevent brain fog? First, prevention is key. If given the opportunity, please consider getting a COVID-19 vaccine. These vaccines are highly effective and safe. However, if you are already experiencing brain fog after a COVID-19 infection, most doctors suggest abiding to a healthy diet while restricting alcohol, caffeine, and drug use. If you are experiencing cognitive symptoms, call us at Pathways Neuropsychology Associates for a comprehensive evaluation.  

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Cognitive Effects of COVID-19 appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Cognitive Effects of COVID-19

Overview of Adult ADHD

/0 Comments/in , /by

Overview of Adult ADHD

Overview of Adult ADHD | Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJOverview of Adult ADHD 

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition in children and adolescents. More recently, ADHD has been diagnosed frequently in adults as well. Although the symptoms used for diagnosing ADHD are the same across the lifespan, it is common for ADHD to manifest differently in adults than in children. Thus, understanding the typical presentation of adult ADHD is important for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. 

Overall, adults with ADHD typically present with cognitive and behavioral difficulties. From a cognitive perspective, the most prominent features of this condition are inattention and executive functioning difficulties. Executive functions include a wide array of higher-order cognitive functions including working memory, multitasking, cognitive inhibition, planning, reasoning, and judgment. In adults with ADHD, executive functioning difficulties can adversely impact their functioning in a variety of ways. For example, these individuals may be “time blind,” in which they are unable to manage their time efficiently (e.g., running late due to distractibility, underestimating the amount of time a task will take, and losing track of time once they become engrossed in a task). 

Further, behavioral difficulties are a common feature of adult ADHD. Specifically, adults with ADHD often demonstrate cognitive impulsivity, which includes being prone to making decisions on a whim. Motivational impulsivity is also typical of this condition, in which the individual is unable to find the drive to complete a task when the reward is too far in the future. Finally, emotional impulsivity occurs when the individual demonstrates difficulty with regulating emotions (e.g., demonstrating irritability, low frustration tolerance, or mood swings). 

Given the complex presentation of ADHD in adults, it is important this condition is diagnosed using a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation.

If you have concerns that you or your child might have ADHD, please contact Pathways Neuropsychology Associates at (732) 930-2242 to inquire about a neuropsychological evaluation. 

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Overview of Adult ADHD appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Overview of Adult ADHD

School-Based Interventions for the Treatment of ADHD in Children and Adolescents

/0 Comments/in , /by

School-Based Interventions for the Treatment of ADHD in Children and Adolescents

School-Based Interventions for the Treatment of ADHD in Children and Adolescents | Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJ

School-Based Interventions for the Treatment of ADHD in Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often exhibit cognitive and behavioral symptoms that adversely impact their academic performance. Children with ADHD may experience difficulty with staying on task, fidgeting, poor impulse control, or emotion dysregulation that serve as barriers to their ability to learn. Given this, school-based interventions are imperative for promoting the academic performance of individuals with ADHD. 

School-based interventions for ADHD may include behavioral strategies, modifications to the learning environment, or special education services. Behavioral interventions for ADHD within the academic environment may include having the teacher utilize positive reinforcement throughout the school day. For example, the teacher may implement a reward system for the child, which serves to increase the occurrence of desired behaviors and reduce disruptive behaviors. 

In addition, modifications to the learning environment may be provided under a 504 Plan. Environmental modifications in a 504 Plan may include extended time on testing, receiving a copy of the class notes from the teacher, or cuing from the teacher to assist with staying on task.  

Finally, special education services for ADHD may be provided under an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Specific accommodations and modifications listed in an IEP may include participating in a smaller classroom setting for particular subjects, receiving extra breaks throughout the day, or having an aide present in order to reduce the occurrence of disruptive behaviors. 

If you have concerns that you or your child might have ADHD, please contact Pathways Neuropsychology Associates at (732) 930-2242 to inquire about a neuropsychological evaluation. 

LET’S GET STARTED

The post School-Based Interventions for the Treatment of ADHD in Children and Adolescents appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
School-Based Interventions for the Treatment of ADHD in Children and Adolescents

Can You Outgrow ADHD?

/0 Comments/in , /by

Can You Outgrow ADHD?

adhd evaluation & testing

Is It Possible to Outgrow A.D.H.D.?

Doctors typically advise a combination of behavioral interventions, counseling and medication to address a child’s symptoms. A child who can manage the symptoms of A.D.H.D., allowing for a more successful experience in school, may reach a point when A.D.H.D. is far less of a problem. So facilitating success in school and ultimately in life may be the path to “outgrowing” the diagnosis.

Excerpt From NY Times  – Read Full Story Here

The Pathways team of professionals has helped thousands of people with ADHD. We are Dedicated to effective and compassionate care for individuals with neurological challenges.

ADHD EVALUATIONS

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Can You Outgrow ADHD? appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Can You Outgrow ADHD?

Neuropsychological Evaluations for Monitoring Cognitive Functioning in Dementia

/0 Comments/in , /by

Neuropsychological Evaluations for Monitoring Cognitive Functioning in Dementia

Dementia Symtoms & treatmentsNeuropsychological Evaluations for Monitoring Cognitive Functioning in Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in the United States. Alzheimer’s disease is an insidious illness, which progressively impacts cognitive functioning. Over the course of the disease process, an individual’s ability to participate in daily activities, including driving, managing medications, and managing finances, may also decline. 

When patients present with subjective cognitive decline, a neuropsychological evaluation assists with determining whether the cognitive changes are secondary to Alzheimer’s disease or a reversible condition such as depression. In individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, neuropsychological evaluations identify areas of cognitive strength and weakness in order to provide the patient with strategies for maintaining his or her cognitive functioning for as long as possible. Neuropsychological evaluations also elucidate the individual’s ability to complete daily tasks, including managing their own finances, medications, and conducting household tasks. Finally, given that Alzheimer’s disease is associated with psychological symptoms such as irritability or depression, neuropsychological evaluations may also examine whether the individual has experienced any mood changes as a result of their illness.    

Given the progressive nature of Alzheimer’s disease, it is crucial to objectively monitor the cognitive, psychological, and functional abilities of the individual. In individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, it is typically recommended that neuropsychological evaluations are repeated every 12 to 18 months in order to better understand the course and prognosis of the illness. If you or your family member are experiencing memory difficulties, please contact Pathways Neuropsychology Associates at (732) 930-2242 to inquire about a neuropsychological evaluation.

The Pathways team of professionals has helped thousands of people with Dementia. We are Dedicated to effective and compassionate care for individuals with neurological challenges.

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Neuropsychological Evaluations for Monitoring Cognitive Functioning in Dementia appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Neuropsychological Evaluations for Monitoring Cognitive Functioning in Dementia

Overview of Neuropsychological Evaluations for Diagnosing ADHD in Pediatric Patients

/0 Comments/in , /by

Overview of Neuropsychological Evaluations for Diagnosing ADHD in Pediatric Patients

Neuropsychological Evaluations for Diagnosing ADHD in Pediatric Patients | Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJ

Overview of Neuropsychological Evaluations for Diagnosing ADHD in Pediatric Patients

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adolescents. ADHD has a behavioral and cognitive presentation that may be similar to other conditions, including learning disorders, depression, anxiety, or impulse control disorders. Given the overlapping symptoms among these disorders, it is important to employ diagnostic procedures that can parse out whether the child meets criteria for ADHD, or whether the difficulties are better accounted for by another neurodevelopmental or psychological condition.   

Neuropsychological evaluations are a comprehensive procedure commonly used for diagnosing ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults. Within the pediatric population, neuropsychological evaluations begin with an initial consultation, in which the clinician has an in-depth interview with the parents and the child in order to determine whether a neuropsychological evaluation would be appropriate.  

Once the determination has been made to proceed with a neuropsychological evaluation, the testing is typically completed during two in-person sessions. During the testing sessions, the child will be asked to complete various tasks that tap into a wide array of cognitive functions (e.g., intellectual functioning, attention, learning, memory, speed of information processing, and visuospatial skills), psychological factors (e.g., depression, anxiety, and behavioral difficulties) and adaptive functioning. Examples of neuropsychological tasks include having the child solve visual puzzles, learn and recall new information, fill out paper-and-pencil measures (when age-appropriate), or complete academic exercises. In addition, collateral information will be obtained from parents and teachers in order to develop a richer understanding of the child’s behavior within the home and school settings. 

Once the testing has been completed, the child’s performance is scored and compared to a normative sample of age-matched peers. A profile of cognitive strengths and weaknesses is developed, which helps to determine whether the child meets criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD, a psychological condition such as depression or anxiety, and/or another neurodevelopmental disorder. 

Finally, a feedback session is held, in which the neuropsychological findings are reviewed in detail with the parents and child. During this session, the parents are provided with an overview of the child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, diagnoses, and recommendations that are tailored to meet the specific needs of the child. Examples of recommendations for a child diagnosed with ADHD may include academic accommodations, behavioral strategies to be used within the home, participation in executive functioning coaching, psychotherapy to address behavioral and/or cognitive difficulties, or a referral to a psychiatrist to discuss pharmacological interventions. All diagnoses and recommendations are provided in a written report, which can be shared with the school at the discretion of the parents.

If you have concerns that you or your child might have ADHD, please contact Pathways Neuropsychology Associates at (732) 930-2242 to inquire about a neuropsychological evaluation. 

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Overview of Neuropsychological Evaluations for Diagnosing ADHD in Pediatric Patients appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: Pathways Neuropsychology
Overview of Neuropsychological Evaluations for Diagnosing ADHD in Pediatric Patients