Hello, I’m Stanford Owen, the owner of ADD Clinics. Over the years, I’ve devoted my life to understanding and treating Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), especially in adults. Through this blog, I aim to shed light on the complexities of adult ADD and share how ADD Clinics can be a partner in this journey.
The Overlooked Challenge of Adult ADD
ADD is often perceived as a childhood condition, but the reality is starkly different. Many adults struggle silently, unaware that their daily challenges might be rooted in undiagnosed ADD. The symptoms in adults can be subtler – procrastination, disorganization, and difficulty managing time are just the tip of the iceberg.
The Path to Diagnosis
The path to diagnosis in adults can be labyrinthine. It’s not uncommon for individuals to reach their 30s, 40s, or even later years before recognizing the signs of ADD. This late diagnosis can lead to a lifetime of unexplained difficulties and frustrations.
ADD Clinics: A Personal Mission
At ADD Clinics, the approach to treating ADD is deeply personal. Having seen the struggles and triumphs of many adults, the focus is on providing a comprehensive, empathetic, and effective treatment plan. ADD isn’t just about inattention or hyperactivity; it’s about understanding how it impacts every aspect of an individual’s life.
A Tailored Approach to Treatment
Treatment for ADD is not one-size-fits-all. At ADD Clinics, the first step is a thorough Initial Medical Evaluation, which includes both medical and behavioral exams. This initial assessment, priced at $275, is critical in developing a personalized treatment plan. A $50 deposit is required for the first appointment, ensuring commitment and continuity of care.
Continuity and Affordability in Care
Recognizing the importance of continuous care, ADD Clinics offers Follow Up Exams/Consults for an affordable $73/month. This model allows for consistent monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans as needed, ensuring that each individual’s journey is as smooth and effective as possible.
Beyond Medication: A Holistic Approach
Treatment for ADD extends beyond medication. It involves understanding the individual as a whole – their lifestyle, dietary habits, and overall health. Therefore, Behavioral Interventions, including Exercise and Nutrition consults, are an integral part of the treatment plan at ADD Clinics.
Comprehensive Health Screening
Understanding the interconnected nature of health, ADD Clinics offers a range of screenings and tests to ensure overall wellbeing. This includes Bone Density screenings, Carotid Artery Ultrasound, Thyroid Ultrasound, and Heart Ultrasound. Also, the Irlen Screen helps identify visual processing issues commonly found in individuals with ADD.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
In partnership with Cerescan, ADD Clinics offers Cerescan SPECT Brain Imaging. This advanced diagnostic tool provides critical insights into brain function, aiding in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of ADD. While some of these tests may be filed with insurance, transparency and affordability remain key.
Laboratory Testing: A Critical Component
Laboratory tests, including blood and urine analyses, play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring ADD. At ADD Clinics, these tests range from $30 to $90, and patients are encouraged to bring any recent lab results to reduce costs.
Addressing Associated Conditions
Often, ADD does not exist in isolation. Many adults with ADD may also experience related conditions like sleep apnea, liver health issues, or substance use challenges. Understanding this, ADD Clinics offers specialized tests such as Sleep Apnea Testing and FibroScan for liver scanning. For those concerned about substance use, a Drug Screen is available for $40.
Transparency and Patient Empowerment
One of my core beliefs at ADD Clinics is the importance of transparency and patient empowerment. We ensure that all our fees are upfront and clear. We encourage our patients to ask questions and understand their treatment options. This approach not only builds trust but also helps in crafting a more effective treatment plan, tailored to each individual’s needs.
The Importance of Exercise and Nutrition
Physical health significantly impacts mental health, and this is especially true for individuals with ADD. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on Behavior Interventions that focus on exercise and nutrition. These consultations are designed to help our patients develop healthier lifestyle habits, which can greatly enhance the effectiveness of their treatment plan.
Embracing Technology in Treatment
At ADD Clinics, we embrace technology as a tool to enhance our understanding of ADD and its treatment. From advanced imaging techniques to leveraging digital tools for patient education and communication, we believe in staying at the forefront of medical technology to provide the best care possible.
Building a Supportive Community
Dealing with ADD, especially as an adult, can often feel isolating. That’s why we strive to create a supportive community at ADD Clinics. Through group sessions, workshops, and online resources, we provide a platform for our patients to share experiences, learn from each other, and feel a sense of belonging.
Conclusion: A Journey Towards Understanding and Managing ADD
Living with ADD as an adult is a journey – one that requires understanding, patience, and the right support. At ADD Clinics, we are committed to being a part of your journey, offering personalized care, continuous support, and a comprehensive approach to treatment. Remember, ADD is not just a challenge; it’s an opportunity to understand yourself better and live a more fulfilling life.
