FAQ

How is a neuropsychologist different from a neurologist?

A neuropsychologist is a licensed, clinical psychologist who has extensive, specialized training in neuroanatomy, neuropathology, and evaluation in order to in order to assess how brain systems affect learning, behavior, and development. A neuropsychologist has an advanced degree in psychology, known as a Ph.D. (Doctorate of Philosophy) or Psy.D. (Doctorate of Psychology). A neuropsychologist usually works with therapists, psychiatrists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, physiatrists and other medical specialists as a team to coordinate a patient’s care.

Is there really such a thing as adult ADHD?

Without a doubt. Adults who have never been diagnosed properly for their ADHD symptoms have lived for years wondering why they frequently seem to “miss the mark,” to play “catch up” almost daily, or to have a nagging sense that they are not living up to their potential. Many people think that ADHD is a “child’s disorder,” so it’s not until a child is diagnosed with ADHD that the parent realizes personal symptoms of ADHD as well. They find that they have used compensation strategies their entire life which partly masked their symptoms. Others suffered silently by continually encouraging themselves to “try harder.”  Research reveals that ADHD is genetically inherited in about 80% of cases, so when one family member is diagnosed, you may want to look for symptoms of ADHD in other family members.

What are some symptoms of ADHD in adults?

The questions below outline some of the components of the three core symptoms of ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Even people who do not have ADHD can occasionally demonstrate inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity, but people with ADHD will demonstrate more of these behaviors, consistently, over time.

• Do you find that you frequently “wander off” mentally, especially during meetings, lectures, or conversations?
• Are you frequently distracted by irrelevant sights or sounds?
• Do you find yourself missing details or making careless mistakes?
• Do you have difficulty following instructions?
• Do you find yourself losing or forgetting things often?
• Are you always moving your hands or feet while in your chair?
• Do you tap your pencil or your feet?
• Do you regularly play with your hair or clothing?
• Do you consciously resist fidgeting or squirming?
• Is it difficult to sit through a movie or lecture?
• Do you often take action before you consider the possible consequences?
• In conversation, do you interrupt others? Do you blurt out inappropriate comments?
• Do you experience difficulty waiting in line or for your turn?

A bump on the head is not serious unless the person loses consciousness…right?

Although losing consciousness is a common symptom of a concussion, it’s very possible to suffer a concussion without losing consciousness. A concussion occurs when there is a physical blow to the body or head causing an injury to your brain.

The brain floats within the skull surrounded by fluid, which cushions it and prevents it from bumping into our hard skulls with every movement of the head. But the fluid may not be able to absorb the force of a sudden blow or a quick stop.  In these situations the brain may slide forcefully against the inner wall of the skull.  More serious injuries to the brain include bruising and swelling of the brain (contusion), a broken skull bone (skull fracture), and blood that collects in or around the brain (hematoma).

Every concussion should be taken seriously.  Although not usually life-threatening, concussions can have serious effects.  Most people with mild injuries recover fully, but the healing process takes time.