ADHD diagnosis, counseling and management
for children and young adults
Dr. Hossalla began working with ADHD many years ago. During her 25 year pediatric career, this has become her special interest. After the sudden death this year of Dr. Kocen, to whom she referred so many of her patients, Dr. Hossalla has made a renewed commitment to see more children with this affliction.
ADHD is not a deficiency, disease or a disorder, but rather a difference in the way affected brains process information and stimulate action. Because 90% of the population lacks this difference, people with ADHD often must function in environments (like school or work) designed for others.
Untreated ADHD teens have a 1.9 times increase in risk for drug and alcohol abuse. They are also at greater risk for dropping out of school. Studies have shown that as young drivers, untreated teenagers with ADHD have 400% more speeding violations and motor vehicle accidents. Furthermore, those accidents are more lethal.
An initial exam cannot be rushed. The evaluation takes an
hour or more.
ADHD comes in three varieties:
- Inattention and hyperactivity in combination is the most common type.
- Inattentive type, with little or no hyperactivity is more difficult to identify.
- Primarily hyperactive ADHD is actually the rarest type since the incidence of hyperactivity decreases as individuals mature.