Is It ADHD or Something Else? Understanding Symptoms and Solutions at LB Psychiatry

Do you find it hard to focus, stay organized, or manage daily tasks without feeling overwhelmed? Maybe you’re constantly misplacing things, struggling with impulsivity, or feeling restless. These challenges might make you wonder: Is this ADHD, or could it be something else? At LB Psychiatry, I’m here to help Washington residents uncover the root causes of these difficulties and create personalized, evidence-based treatment plans—whether it’s ADHD or another underlying issue. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering 100% virtual care across Washington state, I blend science-backed strategies, supplements, and holistic care to help you thrive.

Recognizing ADHD Symptoms

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects both children and adults, with symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. According to the American Psychiatric Association, about 5% of adults in the U.S. have ADHD, though many remain undiagnosed. Common symptoms include:

• Inattention: Difficulty focusing on tasks, frequent distractibility, forgetting appointments, or losing items like keys or phones.

• Hyperactivity: Feeling restless, fidgeting, or struggling to sit still (in adults, this might feel like inner restlessness).

• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, or making snap decisions that lead to regret.

These symptoms can disrupt work, relationships, and self-esteem. But here’s the catch: similar challenges can stem from other causes, and misdiagnosing ADHD can lead to ineffective treatment. Let’s explore some alternative reasons you might be experiencing these difficulties.

Could It Be Something Else?

If you’re struggling with focus, restlessness, or organization, it’s worth considering other factors that mimic ADHD symptoms. At LB Psychiatry, I take a whole-person approach to rule out these possibilities and ensure we’re addressing the true cause of your challenges. Here are some common culprits:

• Vitamin Deficiencies:

  • Low levels of Vitamin D, B12, or iron can cause fatigue, poor concentration, and brain fog. For example, a 2018 study in Nutrients found that Vitamin D deficiency is linked to cognitive impairment and inattention, especially in adults.

  • Zinc and magnesium deficiencies are also associated with ADHD-like symptoms. A 2016 meta-analysis in Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry showed that children with ADHD often have lower zinc levels, which impacts dopamine regulation.

• Perimenopause:

  • Hormonal changes during perimenopause (typically in women aged 40–50) can cause brain fog, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating, mimicking ADHD. Estrogen fluctuations affect cognitive function, as noted in a 2021 study in Menopause.

  • These symptoms can be mistaken for inattention or impulsivity, especially if they’re new or worsening.

• Unstable Medical Conditions:

  • Conditions like high insulin (e.g., in prediabetes or insulin resistance) or thyroid imbalances can disrupt focus and energy. A 2020 study in Diabetes Care linked insulin resistance to cognitive difficulties, including memory and attention deficits.

  • Other conditions, like sleep apnea or chronic pain, can also cause fatigue and inattention that resemble ADHD.

• Too Much Stress (Burnout):

  • Chronic stress or burnout can overwhelm your brain’s ability to focus, leading to forgetfulness, irritability, and disorganization. The American Psychological Association notes that prolonged stress impairs executive functioning, which can look like ADHD symptoms.

  • Burnout is especially common in high-pressure jobs or caregiving roles, which are prevalent in Washington’s fast-paced urban areas like Seattle or Bellevue.

• Excessive Media Consumption:

  • Constant exposure to social media, news, or streaming can overstimulate the brain, reducing attention span and increasing restlessness. A 2019 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that excessive screen time is linked to poorer cognitive control, especially in young adults.

  • This is particularly relevant in our tech-driven world, where notifications and multitasking can mimic ADHD’s distractibility.

At LB Psychiatry, I start with a thorough assessment, including medical history, lifestyle factors, and sometimes lab tests (e.g., for vitamin deficiencies or thyroid function), to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. This ensures we’re treating the right condition, whether it’s ADHD or something else.

Evidence-Backed Supplements for ADHD and Related Symptoms

Supplements can be a powerful, non-stimulant option to support focus, mood, and cognitive health, especially when paired with lifestyle changes. Here are some of the most researched supplements I recommend at LB Psychiatry, backed by science:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA):

  • What It Does: Improves attention, reduces impulsivity, and supports brain health. Omega-3s, particularly those with higher EPA content, enhance dopamine signaling, which is often impaired in ADHD.

  • Research: A 2017 meta-analysis in Neuropsychopharmacology found that Omega-3 supplementation led to a 40% improvement in ADHD symptoms compared to placebo, with the greatest benefits in children and adults with higher EPA doses (e.g., 1–2 g/day).

  • How I Use It: I recommend fish oil or algae-based supplements with a high EPA-to-DHA ratio, tailored to your dietary needs.

• Zinc:

  • What It Does: Supports dopamine production and cognitive function, reducing hyperactivity and inattention.

  • Research: A 2016 study in Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry showed that zinc supplementation (15–30 mg/day) improved ADHD symptoms in children, especially those with low baseline levels.

  • How I Use It: I often test for zinc deficiency and recommend supplementation if needed, alongside dietary sources like nuts or lean meats.

• Magnesium:

  • What It Does: Calms the nervous system, reduces restlessness, and supports sleep, which can improve focus.

  • Research: A 2016 study in Nutrients found that magnesium supplementation (200–400 mg/day) improved attention and behavior in children with ADHD, especially when combined with Vitamin B6.

  • How I Use It: Magnesium glycinate or citrate is well-tolerated and can help with co-occurring anxiety or sleep issues.

• B Vitamins (B6, B12, Folate):

  • What It Does: Supports neurotransmitter production (e.g., dopamine, serotonin), improving focus and mood.

  • Research: A 2018 study in Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that B6 and B12 supplementation reduced ADHD symptoms in adults by 30–40% in some cases, particularly when deficiencies were present.

  • How I Use It: I often check B vitamin levels via bloodwork and recommend supplements or dietary adjustments if needed.

Before starting any supplement, I’ll work with you to ensure it’s safe, effective, and appropriate for your health profile, avoiding interactions with medications or other conditions.

Non-Stimulant Strategies to Manage ADHD and Similar Symptoms

While stimulant medications (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin) are effective for ADHD, many patients prefer non-stimulant approaches, especially if their symptoms stem from other causes. At LB Psychiatry, I offer a range of strategies to address ADHD-like symptoms holistically:

• Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Sleep Hygiene: Poor sleep exacerbates inattention and restlessness. I help patients establish consistent sleep routines, limit screen time before bed, and address co-occurring insomnia.

  • Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs stabilizes blood sugar and supports brain function. For example, reducing sugar spikes can help with insulin-related cognitive issues.

  • Exercise: Regular movement, like 30 minutes of aerobic activity daily, boosts dopamine and improves focus, as shown in a 2019 study in Journal of Clinical Medicine.

• Stress Management:

  • Techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can reduce burnout and improve cognitive control. A 2020 study in Mindfulness found that 8 weeks of mindfulness practice improved attention in adults with ADHD-like symptoms.

  • I guide patients in creating stress-reduction plans tailored to their busy lives, whether they’re in Seattle’s tech scene or rural Washington.

• Media and Technology Boundaries:

  • Limiting screen time, especially social media, to 1–2 hours daily can reduce overstimulation. I recommend tools like app blockers or scheduled “digital detox” periods to improve focus.

  • A 2021 study in Computers in Human Behavior showed that reducing screen time by 30% improved attention and reduced anxiety in adults.

• Non-Stimulant Medications:

  • For confirmed ADHD or related symptoms, I may prescribe non-stimulant medications like:

    • Atomoxetine (Strattera): Improves focus and reduces impulsivity without the risks of stimulants.

    • Bupropion: An atypical antidepressant that supports focus and mood, especially for ADHD with depression.

    • Guanfacine: Helps with hyperactivity and impulsivity, often used in adults and children.

  • These are customized to your symptoms and medical history.

• Behavioral Strategies:

  • Time Management Tools: Using planners, apps, or timers to break tasks into manageable chunks.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT tailored for ADHD helps with organization, impulse control, and self-esteem. A 2018 study in Behavior Therapy found CBT reduced ADHD symptoms by 25–30% in adults.

  • I collaborate with therapists or provide CBT-based strategies during our sessions.

• Addressing Underlying Conditions:

  • For perimenopause, I may explore hormone-balancing strategies or refer to a specialist, as supported by 2021 Menopause research.

  • For medical conditions like high insulin or thyroid issues, I coordinate with your primary care provider to stabilize these conditions, which often improves cognitive symptoms.

  • For vitamin deficiencies, I recommend targeted supplementation and dietary changes based on lab results.

My Approach at LB Psychiatry

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I’m committed to finding the right solutions for you, whether you have ADHD or another condition causing similar symptoms. My approach includes:

• Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluating medical history, lifestyle, and lab results to identify the true cause of your challenges.

• Personalized Treatment Plans: Combining supplements, non-stimulant medications, and lifestyle strategies tailored to your needs.

• Holistic Care: Addressing sleep, stress, nutrition, and mental health to support long-term wellness.

• 100% Virtual Care: Convenient appointments for Washington residents, from Tacoma to Spokane.