ADHD, Combined Presentation Treatment at The Raleigh House

 

What is ADHD-C?

ADHD, Combined Presentation (ADHD-C) is a subtype of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. It is diagnosed when an individual experiences both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

ADHD-C presents a blend of symptoms. Individuals often require a personalized, multi-faceted treatment plan to address focus-related and impulsive behaviors.

Symptoms of ADHD-C

Combined ADHD symptoms reflect a mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive traits, including:

• Frequent forgetfulness and difficulty following instructions.
• Trouble staying focused on tasks, conversations, or reading.
• Difficulty with organization and time management.
• Constant restlessness or inability to sit still.
• Impulsive decision-making, interrupting others, or speaking out of turn.
• Struggles with emotional regulation and frustration intolerance.

Because these symptoms can interfere with daily responsibilities, professional diagnosis and treatment are key to long-term success.

How ADHD-C Differs from Other ADHD Types

ADHD-C includes characteristics of both primary subtypes:

• ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (ADHD-PI): Marked by difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, and disorganization.
• ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation (ADHD-HI): Characterized by excessive restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty controlling emotions.

Who is Most Affected by ADHD-C?

ADHD-C is commonly diagnosed in children due to obvious symptoms, but many adults also struggle with undiagnosed ADHD-C.

While hyperactivity may lessen with age, impulsivity, inattention, and executive dysfunction often persist, affecting work performance, relationships, and mental health.

Early intervention and structured treatment can help individuals develop strategies for managing symptoms effectively and improving their quality of life at any age.

Causes and Risk Factors of ADHD-C

ADHD-C is a neurodevelopmental disorder influenced by genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors.

Common risk factors for ADHD-C Include:

• Genetics: ADHD tends to run in families, with strong hereditary links.
• Brain Chemistry: Differences in dopamine and norepinephrine regulation affect focus, impulse control, and motivation.
• Prenatal Factors: Premature birth, maternal stress, and prenatal exposure to toxins can contribute to differences in brain development.
• Childhood Environment: Early childhood trauma, chronic stress, or a lack of structure can impact ADHD symptom severity.

The Link Between ADHD-C and Co-Occurring Disorders

Many individuals with ADHD-C also experience other mental health conditions, requiring dual diagnosis treatment to address both ADHD and additional challenges.

ADHD-C and Anxiety Disorders

Persistent struggles with focus, impulsivity, and organization can create chronic stress and anxiety, especially when individuals struggle to meet expectations at work, school, or in relationships.

ADHD-C and Mood Disorders

The emotional highs and lows associated with ADHD-C can contribute to mood instability, frustration, and irritability. Many individuals experience depression and feelings of failure due to repeated difficulties with self-regulation.

ADHD-C and Executive Dysfunction

Executive dysfunction is a core challenge of ADHD-C, affecting planning, problem-solving, prioritization, and self-regulation. Without proper intervention, these difficulties can impact personal and professional responsibilities.

Treatment Options for ADHD-C

At The Raleigh House, we offer a comprehensive approach to ADHD-C treatment, combining behavioral therapy, medication management, holistic strategies, and dual diagnosis care.

Comprehensive ADHD-C Diagnosis and Assessment

Our clinical team starts by providing in-depth evaluations to ensure an accurate ADHD diagnosis and rule out other conditions that may mimic symptoms.

A personalized treatment plan is then developed to address each client’s needs.

Behavioral Therapy and Coaching

Behavioral therapy is a cornerstone of ADHD-C treatment, helping clients develop strategies for:

• Time management and organization.
• Impulse control and emotional regulation.
• Building healthy habits and coping mechanisms.

Executive function coaching is also available to help clients improve daily productivity and problem-solving skills.

Medication Management for ADHD-C Symptoms

For some individuals, medication plays a role in managing symptoms.

Medication options often include:

• Stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin): Improve focus, impulse control, and hyperactivity management.
• Non-stimulants (Strattera, Wellbutrin): Provide alternative treatment for those sensitive to stimulants.

Ongoing medication monitoring ensures that dosages remain effective and well-tolerated.

Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

We integrate cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices to help individuals with ADHD and combined presentation develop essential skills for managing inattention, impulsivity, and emotional regulation.

CBT is one of the most effective therapeutic approaches for ADHD-C as it focuses on identifying negative thought patterns, improving executive function, and building practical coping strategies.

Through structured sessions, clients learn to:

• Recognize and reframe unhelpful thinking patterns contributing to procrastination, impulsivity, and frustration.
• Develop personalized coping mechanisms to improve focus, task completion, and time management.
• Strengthen emotional regulation skills to manage impulsivity, frustration, and sensitivity to criticism.
• Address self-doubt and build self-confidence by reinforcing positive habits and realistic goal-setting.

In addition to CBT, mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, guided meditation, and structured relaxation exercises help clients:

• Improve attention control and reduce distractibility in daily tasks.
• Increase self-awareness to recognize emotional triggers and manage reactions.
• Lower stress levels by creating a sense of calm and mental clarity.

Holistic and Lifestyle Modifications

A whole-person approach to ADHD-C treatment includes:

• Regular physical activity to boost dopamine and improve focus.
• Rock climbing therapy to build problem-solving skills, patience, and resilience.
• Animal-assisted therapy to support emotional connection and self-regulation.
• Nutritional strategies, including omega-3-rich diets and balanced meal planning.
• Sleep hygiene interventions to improve rest and overall brain function.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for ADHD-C and Co-Occurring Conditions

For clients managing both ADHD-C and co-occurring disorders, our dual diagnosis program provides comprehensive support for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.

Why Choose The Raleigh House for ADHD-C Treatment?

At The Raleigh House, we understand the unique challenges of managing inattention and hyperactivity.

Our treatment approach provides:

• Expert clinicians specializing in ADHD and co-occurring disorders.
• Personalized, evidence-based therapy and medication management.
• Holistic, structured treatment plans tailored for long-term success.

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Visit The Raleigh House for ADHD-C Treatment in Colorado

If ADHD-C is affecting your daily life, relationships, or work, you don’t have to face it alone.

At The Raleigh House, we provide personalized ADHD treatment at two Colorado locations:

• The Ranch: Nestled in the peaceful Colorado countryside, The Ranch offers a serene space for those seeking recovery from trauma, mental health conditions, and addiction. With nature-inspired therapies and a nurturing community, it is an ideal place to find peace and heal.
• The Center for Integrative Behavioral Health: Located in the Denver Tech Center, our newest facility offers the same clinical excellence and unique healing experiences for trauma, mental health, and addiction. It’s also an excellent setting for those individuals needing physical accessibility support in a beautiful and nurturing environment. 

Take the first step toward managing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Contact our admissions team today to explore your treatment options.