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Warning-sign checks

ADD/ADHD: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call local emergency services or a crisis service if there is immediate danger.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact the treating clinician sooner if side effects are persistent, symptoms are getting worse, medication seems ineffective, or there are major changes in sleep, mood, appetite, or behavior.

    Urgent help is appropriate if there are suicidal thoughts, severe mood or behavioral changes, hallucinations, signs of medication overdose, or concern that someone may harm themselves or another person.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Once symptoms are stable, periodic follow-up is still important.

    Routine follow-up may include reviewing attention, impulsivity, school or work performance, relationships, sleep, appetite, mood, and substance use.

    For people taking medication, clinicians may monitor blood pressure, pulse, weight, and, in children, growth.

    They may also check whether medication is being taken safely and whether benefits last through the parts of the day when support is needed.

    A routine appointment is appropriate for questions about organization, accommodations, or gradual treatment changes.

The article also says

ADHD usually requires ongoing review rather than a one-time visit.

Early in treatment, appointments may be more frequent while strategies or medicines are adjusted.

Needs can change during school transitions, a new job, pregnancy, menopause, illness, or major stress.

Periodic reassessment can help ensure that the diagnosis and treatment plan still fit the person’s circumstances.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on ADD/ADHD. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.