Medication in Your DMs?

/0 Comments/in /by

Medication in Your DMs?

adhd medication evaluation psychologist toms river njMedication in Your DMs?

Lets face it: we have been living in the social media age for quite some time. As we scroll through our Instagram or TiKTok feeds, we are met with countless ads for clothes and streaming subscriptions. More recently, however, a new player has made its way to our smartphone screens (see Times link below for more). Medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as Adderall and Ritalin, are now part of the online subscription ecosystem without the need of meeting anyone in person. On average, patients meet with online doctors for only thirty minutes using these new apps. The mixture of powerful medication with social media may have potential benefits in the sake of healthcare access, but it undoubtedly also may lead to harmful treatment practices.

Historically, in person visits with doctors were needed to obtain ADHD medications, many of which are controlled substances. However, the COVID19 lockdowns led to lax guidelines for obtaining these prescriptions. While these new guidelines made it easier for patients to obtain medication during a pandemic, society is now balancing a fine line between access, medical ethics, and legal compliance to the Controlled Substances Act. Companies such as Cerebral Inc have capitalized on the new digital age, setting patients up with doctor referrals remotely and providing ADHD medications to new patients for the first time without any in-person visits to a care provider.

Patients taking stimulants or other medications for ADHD are often carefully monitored by their doctors for side effects and efficacy. Side effects such as racing heart, appetite suppression, insomnia, sweating, and emotional distress are sometimes experienced with stimulants. Moreover, because there are so many treatment options on the market, patients often work closely with their care providers to see what medications and dose regimens work as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Much of this workflow can be disrupted by streamlined medication startups such as Cerebral. Some of their clientele, for instance, may be trying ADHD medications for first time without previous treatments and may benefit from a close patient-doctor relationship. 

While ADHD medications have drastically improved productivity, organization, and well-being of many patients, the controlled substances can have harmful effects if put in the wrong hands or provided at the wrong doses. That is why it is especially troubling to see reports from social-media platforms of online-physicians feeling pressured to prescribe. The low standards of ADHD diagnoses have led many to believe that smartphone-based medication access is leading to a form of medical malpractice. In fact, this serves the basis of a recent investigations into Cerebral, which already serves 200,000 patients.

Here at Pathways Associates, we are committed to the highest standards of care. Contact us today for comprehensive ADHD evaluation if you believe you or a loved one are experiencing inattention that is disruptive to life, school, or work. Our team has years of experience that avoids potential risks posed by social media-based ADHD treatments. Our providers will work closely with you to provide an accurate diagnosis with a comprehensive and safe treatment plan that may include medication.

Read more here:  https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/13/well/mind/cerebral-adhd-medication-tiktok.html

#top .av_textblock_section.av-av_textblock-4b54a9376293c03bbf09fa7edbc1f1cb .avia_textblock{
font-size:16px;
}

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates we use evidence-based evaluation instruments and treatments to get you, your loved one, or your child on the path to success. If you or someone you love are struggling with the symptoms of ADHD, call now and get started!

.flex_column.av-av_one_full-d3e509f4637007bf756d5d5b286252b3{
border-width:2px;
border-color:#d9d9d9;
border-style:solid;
border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
-webkit-border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
-moz-border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
padding:20px 20px 20px 20px;
background-color:#f8f8f8;
}

LET’S GET STARTED

The post Medication in Your DMs? appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
Medication in Your DMs?

The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for a Loved One with Dementia

/0 Comments/in /by

The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for a Loved One with Dementia

The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for a Loved One with Dementia | Psychologist Toms River NJ

The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for a Loved One with Dementia

Watching someone you love experience dementia is heart-wrenching. However, knowing how to care for your loved one with dementia can help maintain that connection for as long as possible and in the best way possible.

Ultimately, it may take some practice. Yet, starting with the dos and don’ts below can offer a guide on what you should and shouldn’t be doing.

Dementia Caregiver Dos and Don’ts

One of the most important things you can do when caring for your loved one with dementia is to practice patience and forgiveness. They aren’t being forgetful on purpose.  And if anything, it’s just—if not more—frustrating for them. So, what should you do?

Here are a few “Dos” for caring for someone with dementia:

  • Talk in short sentences and keep things simple.
  • Ask simple questions with limited options.
  • Repeat instructions or sentences the exact same way you did the first time.
  • Agree with them.
  • Listen attentively and pay attention to their body language.
  • Limit distractions during conversations.
  • Always be respectful.

In contrast, here are some “Don’ts”:

  • Don’t argue or correct.
  • Don’t remind them they have a memory issue (“Don’t you remember? I just told you”)
  • Don’t ask open-ended questions (remember, limit the choices! Instead of “what do you want for dessert?” Ask: “Would you like cake or ice cream?”)
  • Don’t show signs of frustration, such as yelling or anger.
  • Don’t make the individual with dementia have to guess something.
  • Don’t try to complete their sentences or thought (allow them the chance to recall or remember).
  • Don’t take things personally.

Help Your Loved One Get the Care They Need

It can be challenging caring for your loved one alone. Yet, the good news is you don’t need to do it alone. At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates, our team is here to help. Get in touch with us today for more information.

#top .av_textblock_section.av-l6gx40lm-e82deeabd1b628ce2659994827826200 .avia_textblock{
font-size:16px;
}

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates we use evidence-based evaluation instruments and treatments to get you, your loved one, or your child on the path to success. If you or someone you love are struggling with the symptoms of Dementia, call now and get started!

.flex_column.av-av_one_full-d3e509f4637007bf756d5d5b286252b3{
border-width:2px;
border-color:#d9d9d9;
border-style:solid;
border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
-webkit-border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
-moz-border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
padding:20px 20px 20px 20px;
background-color:#f8f8f8;
}

LET’S GET STARTED

The post The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for a Loved One with Dementia appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for a Loved One with Dementia

5 Coping Strategies for ADHD

/0 Comments/in /by

5 Coping Strategies for ADHD

ADHD Tips - ADHD coaching

5 Coping Strategies for ADHD

Coping with ADHD in your everyday life can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. You might feel distracted or find yourself becoming overwhelmed. Yet, developing proper coping strategies can help you manage your ADHD in an effective and efficient way, allowing you to achieve all your goals and more.

In this article, we outline five coping strategies to help you manage your ADHD. Keep reading to find out more.

1. Find Time to Move

Research shows how exercise is an effective short-term and long-term management tactic for those with ADHD. This is because exercise increases dopamine release, as well as can improve attention and focus while reducing impulsiveness for those with ADHD.

On top of this, regular exercise is associated with decreased risk of depression and anxiety, which are known to be closely linked with ADHD diagnosis.

2. Create Systems for Yourself

If you know you have a tendency to get increasingly distracted as the day goes on, use this to your advantage! Plan on doing priority tasks first so that you, at the very least, complete those and can feel accomplished knowing your priorities are done.

3. Practice Acceptance

An ADHD diagnosis can help you understand yourself more or why you do things the way you do. Yet, don’t let these entities become excuses. Rather, accept yourself and any limitations you may have—while finding systems to help avoid these limitations from becoming problematic (see the above point for more on creating systems!).

4. Create Small Steps for Big Tasks

With ADHD, many individuals find they can quickly become overwhelmed, especially if a task seems large in comparison. This may mean you avoid the task or maybe avoid finishing it. Instead, when tasks seem overwhelming, try breaking them down into steps. Focus on each individual step at a time, not bothering with the next one until the current one is complete. This can make everything much more simple and much less overwhelming!

5. Add Deadlines to Tasks

Even for chores around the house, give yourself a set time to do it. This avoids procrastination or distraction, ensuring things get done and you are less likely to stray off task.

What Else Can You Do?

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates, we offer ADHD Coaching for individuals struggling with work, school, or social events. Together, we can help you find strategies to manage and overcome what holds you back. Individuals with ADHD can lead relatively normal lives—all it takes is finding the right strategies that work for you. Contact us today.

#top .av_textblock_section.av-av_textblock-4b54a9376293c03bbf09fa7edbc1f1cb .avia_textblock{
font-size:16px;
}

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates we use evidence-based evaluation instruments and treatments to get you, your loved one, or your child on the path to success. If you or someone you love are struggling with the symptoms of ADHD, call now and get started!

.flex_column.av-av_one_full-d3e509f4637007bf756d5d5b286252b3{
border-width:2px;
border-color:#d9d9d9;
border-style:solid;
border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
-webkit-border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
-moz-border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;
padding:20px 20px 20px 20px;
background-color:#f8f8f8;
}

LET’S GET STARTED

The post 5 Coping Strategies for ADHD appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
5 Coping Strategies for ADHD

ADHD Coaching Tips

/0 Comments/in /by

ADHD Coaching Tips

ADHD Coaching Tips Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ – Ocean County NJ

ADHD Coaching Tips

  • Break large assignments and tasks into smaller parts.
  • Work for 25 minutes, then take a short break. Use a timer!
  • Keep to a routine. For example, homework can be done the same place and same time every day.
  • Set up intrinsic and extrinsic reinforcer/reward
  • Set a schedule. Right the schedule out and make it conspicuous (i.e., using a whiteboard, etc.).
  • Use a written planner. Using your phone, computer, or watch to set a schedule can be helpful, but the act of writing out a schedule further helps with remembering to complete tasks.

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates we use evidence-based evaluation instruments and treatments to get you, your loved one, or your child on the path to success. If you or someone you love are struggling with the symptoms of ADHD, call now and get started!

LET’S GET STARTED

The post ADHD Coaching Tips appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
ADHD Coaching Tips

ADHD – Back To School Tips

/0 Comments/in /by

ADHD – Back To School Tips

ADHD Coaching | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJADHD – Back to School Tips 

Going back to school can be a stressful experience for a child with ADHD. Here are some tips to make the transition a little less stressful:

Tip #1

Communication! Discuss with your child what he/she should expect, what the morning routine prior to school going to be and what your expectations are of your child.

Tip #2

Listen! Have a discussion with your child and listen to his/her concerns, worries, expectations, and goals. Listen to your child and find our what he/she is excited about for school. This is not a time to lecture or teach. This is a time to listen, empathize, and use your positive attention parenting skills.

Tip #3

Do your prep work. Prior to the start of the school year meet with the principal and discussed your child’s special issues. Advocate for the teacher that works well with ADHD children. Set up the communication system before the school year even starts.

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates we use evidence-based evaluation instruments and treatments to get you, your loved one, or your child on the path to success. If you or someone you love are struggling with the symptoms of ADHD, call now and get started!

LET’S GET STARTED

The post ADHD – Back To School Tips appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
ADHD – Back To School Tips

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