Expert Q&A with Dr. Hubsher
Dr. Merritt Hubsher, MD, shares his over 40 years of clinical experience.
Dr. Merritt Hubsher, MD is board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 40 years of clinical experience. As the director of ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center, he regularly participates in Q&A sessions to share his expert insights and shed light on common issues he treats with his team.
Read his expert Q&A below:
How do you know when ADHD isn't the whole story?
Many patients are referred for ADHD, but symptoms such as poor concentration, forgetfulness, impulsivity, and difficulty completing tasks can also occur in anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, learning disabilities, and mood disorders. One of the most important parts of a psychiatric evaluation is determining whether ADHD is the primary issue or one piece of a larger clinical picture.
What are the most common psychiatric diagnoses that are mistaken for ADHD?
ADHD shares symptoms with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, sleep disorders, and executive functioning difficulties. Understanding the differences requires a detailed evaluation and careful review of how symptoms developed over time.
Why do some psychiatric medications work well for one person but not another?
Psychiatric treatment is highly individualized. Two patients with the same diagnosis may respond very differently to the same medication. Factors such as symptom patterns, genetics, medical history, co-occurring conditions, and previous medication experiences all influence treatment decisions.
When should someone consider getting a second psychiatric opinion?
A second opinion may be helpful when treatment is not producing expected results, medication side effects are difficult to tolerate, symptoms have changed over time, or the diagnosis no longer seems to fully explain what the patient is experiencing.
Can anxiety look like ADHD?
Yes. Anxiety can make it difficult to focus, stay organized, complete tasks, and remember information. Many patients assume they have ADHD when anxiety may actually be driving many of their symptoms.
How can parents tell the difference between typical teenage behavior and a mental health concern?
All teenagers experience mood changes, frustration, and occasional conflict. The concern arises when symptoms begin interfering with school, relationships, family functioning, emotional well-being, or daily responsibilities.
What is the biggest mistake people make when seeking mental health treatment?
Many people focus on treating a symptom rather than understanding the underlying cause. Effective treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis and a clear understanding of the factors contributing to the problem.
Why do some children struggle despite receiving treatment?
Sometimes the diagnosis is incomplete, multiple conditions are occurring together, environmental factors are contributing to symptoms, or treatment plans need adjustment. A comprehensive evaluation often helps clarify what may be missing.
Can adults have ADHD if they were never diagnosed as children?
Absolutely. Many adults develop coping strategies that mask symptoms for years. Others are treated for anxiety or depression before realizing that ADHD may also be contributing to their difficulties.
What do you look for during an initial psychiatric evaluation?
The evaluation focuses on understanding the patient’s symptoms, history, strengths, challenges, previous treatment experiences, family history, and day-to-day functioning. The goal is not simply to assign a diagnosis, but to develop a meaningful understanding of what is driving the symptoms.
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