5 Ways Dementia & Alzheimer's Disease Impacts Personality | Psychologist - Toms River NJ

5 Ways Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease Impacts Personality

Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can be an emotionally challenging journey, as these conditions not only affect memory and cognitive abilities but also have a profound impact on personality.

As a caregiver or parent, understanding how these changes manifest can help you provide the best possible support and care. In this guide, we explore five ways dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can impact personality, offering insights and compassion to those on this difficult path.

adhd evaluation

What Does an ADHD Evaluation Involve?

An ADHD evaluation plays a crucial role in providing support and guidance for those experiencing its symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore the process of an ADHD evaluation with compassion, recognizing the importance of empathy and sensitivity in helping individuals navigate this journey of understanding their unique needs.

Future Planning for Your Loved One With Dementia: 3 Things You Should Consider: Toms River Psychologist

Future Planning for Your Loved One With Dementia: 3 Things You Should Consider

A dementia diagnosis is life-changing for both the person who has received the diagnosis and their loved ones. Yet, once a diagnosis is made, planning is of the utmost importance. Dementia progression varies on a case-by-case basis; Thus, now is the time to look ahead so your loved one with dementia can make healthcare and end-of-life decisions now while they still can.

So, what should you plan for exactly? Here are the necessities you and your loved one need to consider.

Does Trouble Concentrating or Staying on Task Always Mean ADHD? | Psychologist - Toms River NJ

Does Trouble Concentrating or Staying on Task Always Mean ADHD?

Does Trouble Concentrating or Staying on Task Always Mean ADHD? | Psychologist - Toms River NJ

Does Trouble Concentrating or Staying on Task Always Mean ADHD?

ADHD is frequently associated with hyperactivity, which usually means a person with this diagnosis struggles to stay on one task for any length of time. But not all individuals with ADHD have this common marker.

While they might be easily distracted, there are also other signs of ADHD which might be more prominent. They may actually have hyperfocus problems, where they experience intense periods of concentration. At the same time, children who are easily distracted don’t necessarily have ADHD. So, how can you tell the difference?

Why Not All Attention Problems Are ADHD

When inquiring into whether or not your child has ADHD, there are a few other diagnoses that must be considered. These include:

  • Anxiety: Anxiety can easily lead to attention problems. Worrying leads to difficulty staying on task. In particular, this may impact children with separation anxiety or social anxiety.
  • OCD: OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) often involves obsessively worrying about something bad happening, which may create distraction issues.
  • Learning Disorders: Learning disorders, such as dyslexia, may also, at first, appear to portray symptoms of ADHD. Yet, with a proper diagnosis, this might not be the case.
  • Trauma or Stress: If your child has gone through a stressful or traumatizing event, they may lose focus or become easily distracted. Some of these outward behaviors may first appear like ADHD. However, again, a proper diagnosis can determine if this is the case.

Diagnosing ADHD

Unfortunately, there isn’t one specific test for ADHD. In fact, there are multiple tests that can indicate the possibility of ADHD. Yet, seeking out professionals who have experience in diagnosing ADHD and other conditions can ensure your child receives the proper diagnosis and treatment.

Typically, evaluations involve the ruling out of other disorders, like anxiety, learning issues, OCD, or stress. If the main symptoms of ADHD are present, such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, with no indication of other conditions at play, a diagnosis may be made. This is often done via the use of testing and other assessment methods.

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates, our team can help you determine if your child is truly experiencing ADHD or another condition. From there, we can determine the path forward, helping your child pave their way toward success. Contact us today for more information.

 

ADHD vs Autism: Is ADHD a Form of Autism? |Psychologist | Toms River NJ

ADHD vs Autism: Is ADHD a Form of Autism?

Many tend to assume ADHD and autism are the same or associated with one another. The truth is ADHD does not fall on the autism spectrum. Yet, they do have some similar symptoms, which is where the confusion may lie. In fact, being diagnosed with autism may increase one’s chances of having ADHD.

So, let’s explore this in more detail. What do ADHD and autism have in common? How are they different? Let’s find out!

3 Tips for Parenting a Child with ADHD | Psychologist Toms River NJ

3 Tips for Parenting a Child with ADHD

Parenting is a full-time job all on its own. Parenting a child with ADHD can further prove challenging, frustrating, and, at times, overwhelming. However, with the right tactics, it can be easier. So, what should you know? How can you put your best foot forward for your child?

Managing Stress With ADHD

Why Managing Stress is Crucial for Individuals With ADHD

mentally and physically as time goes on. Inevitably, it also poses a frustrating situation for the person with ADHD. And it can turn into a chronic cycle where you may get stressed about being stressed. 

So, how does this impact ADHD? And what can someone with ADHD do to manage stress more effectively?

ADHD Coaching | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ - Ocean County NJ | How to Help Your Child Study Better With ADHD

3 Reasons to Create Task Lists for Your Child With ADHD

With ADHD, your child may struggle to stay on task. This might create problems when it comes to completing homework or routine chores around the house. Your child might be quick to abandon the task or may easily get distracted, making the task or homework go longer than it needs to be. 

However, a “planner” or “task list” can help children with ADHD manage their time better. And yes, this may take some practice! So, how can a task list or planner help those with ADHD? Here are three reasons.

ADHD Relaxation Techniques for Your Child | Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ – Ocean County NJ

The Importance of ADHD Relaxation Techniques for Your Child

As a parent with a child with ADHD, you might struggle to find ways to help your child calm down and relax. Many with ADHD have difficulty paying attention to one task or activity, jumping from one thing to the next, and struggling to follow through with tasks until completion. 

Research also shows how ADHD and stress are closely linked, meaning your child may have trouble with feeling overwhelmed or anxious. And this is why relaxation techniques and strategies are so important for individuals (and children) with ADHD. So, let’s dig into this a little bit further. What should you know?

3 Dietary Considerations for Children with ADHD |Psychologists | Toms River, NJ | Manahawkin, NJ | Freehold, NJ – Ocean County NJ

3 Dietary Considerations for Children with ADHD

ADHD can’t be treated or managed by diet alone. However, paying close attention to what your child eats can contribute to easier management and fewer hurdles when helping your child grow and develop. By fostering healthy eating patterns, you can ensure your child’s body has the resources and tools it needs to function optimally. 

For children with ADHD, a proper diet can further help enhance focus and attention and reduce hyperactivity. So, with that in mind, here are a few dietary considerations you may want to implement with your child.