Understanding ADHD from Childhood to Adulthood: Holistic Treatments That Work

Finding the right ADHD treatment in Brooklyn can feel complicated—especially when what worked for one person (or even one stage of life) doesn’t seem to work for another. ADHD isn’t just a childhood condition or a problem of focus. It’s a neurobiological pattern that affects how you think, feel, and function at every age—from restless childhood energy to adult burnout and brain fog.

At Dr. Beata Lewis’s integrative psychiatry practice, we take a different approach. Instead of quick fixes or one-size-fits-all medication plans, we look for the why behind the symptoms. Using science-based tools and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, our goal is to help you or your child achieve lasting focus, calm, and clarity—not just temporary relief.

This complete guide explains how ADHD evolves from childhood to adulthood, why standard treatments often fall short, and how holistic, functional, and precision psychiatry can uncover the root causes behind attention and mood challenges. You’ll learn how nutrition, gut health, genetics, and lifestyle all play a role—and how personalized care through The BLISS Protocol helps patients achieve real, sustainable results.

ADHD Beyond Labels — Seeing the Full Picture

Before exploring treatment, it’s important to understand what ADHD truly is. It’s often misunderstood and oversimplified, reduced to a label that doesn’t capture the complex experience of those who live with it. A modern approach to ADHD moves beyond surface-level symptoms to see the whole person and the unique biological factors driving their challenges.

What ADHD really is (and what it’s not)

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the brain’s executive functions. These are the skills that help you plan, focus, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks. It is not a character flaw, a sign of laziness, or a failure of willpower. It’s a difference in brain wiring that impacts how you regulate attention, emotions, and impulses.

Why ADHD affects each person differently

No two people with ADHD are the same. One person might struggle with hyper-focus and lose track of time, while another finds it impossible to start a task. One child might be constantly moving, while an adult may feel an internal sense of restlessness without showing it on the outside. These differences are influenced by genetics, environment, co-occurring conditions like anxiety, and underlying biological factors. A truly effective treatment plan must honor this individuality.

The importance of understanding root causes before treatment

Simply treating the symptoms of ADHD without understanding their origin is like patching a leaky roof every time it rains instead of finding the source of the leak. A functional medicine approach asks why these symptoms are occurring. Is there a nutrient deficiency affecting neurotransmitter production? Is inflammation from gut issues impacting brain function? Using tools like advanced lab testing and precision psychiatry, we can uncover these root causes and build a more effective, personalized treatment plan.

How ADHD Looks at Different Ages — From Childhood to Adulthood

ADHD is a lifespan condition. While the core challenges with executive function remain, the way they manifest changes dramatically as a person grows and the demands of their environment shift. Understanding these age-related patterns is key to providing the right support at the right time.

ADHD in children: early signs and developmental patterns

In young children, ADHD often presents as hyperactivity and impulsivity. A child may have trouble sitting still, waiting their turn, or following instructions. They might be described as being “on the go” constantly. Inattention can also be present, showing up as difficulty finishing tasks, being easily distracted, or seeming to not listen when spoken to. Recognizing these patterns early is crucial for providing the support a child needs to thrive in school and at home. 

ADHD in teens: academic stress, social pressure, and self-image

During the teenage years, the demands on executive function increase significantly. Academic expectations become more complex, and social navigation gets trickier. For a teen with ADHD, this can lead to overwhelming stress, procrastination on schoolwork, and challenges with peer relationships. The internal experience often intensifies, leading to feelings of frustration, low self-esteem, and anxiety. This is a critical time for support that addresses not just academics but also emotional regulation and self-worth.

Adult ADHD: focus, motivation, and burnout in real life

Many adults with ADHD were never diagnosed as children, especially women, whose symptoms often present less as hyperactivity and more as inattentiveness and internal anxiety. In adulthood, untreated ADHD can manifest as chronic disorganization, difficulty meeting deadlines at work, challenges in maintaining relationships, and a persistent feeling of not living up to one’s potential. This constant struggle to keep up often leads to burnout and exhaustion. Understanding the nuances of adult ADHD is the first step toward finding solutions that work for your life.

Why ADHD doesn’t “go away” — it just changes form

It was once believed that children “grew out of” ADHD. We now know this is not true. While hyperactivity may lessen with age, the underlying challenges with focus, organization, and emotional regulation persist. The hyperactive child may become the restless adult who fidgets in meetings, constantly changes jobs, or feels an unending internal buzz. Recognizing that ADHD changes form—but doesn’t disappear—is essential for seeking and receiving effective, long-term support. Exploring options like those in our guides, “Best ADHD Supplements for Kids” and “Natural ADHD Remedies for Adults,” can offer supportive strategies at every stage.

Why Conventional ADHD Treatments Often Fall Short

The conventional approach to ADHD has historically centered on medication. While stimulants and other medications can be incredibly effective and even life-changing for many, a treatment plan that stops there often falls short of providing comprehensive, long-term wellness.

The medication-only model and its limitations

Medication can significantly improve focus and reduce impulsivity, creating a crucial window of opportunity for learning and growth. However, it doesn’t teach skills. It doesn’t address underlying nutritional deficiencies, gut health issues, or sleep problems that may be making symptoms worse. Relying solely on medication management can also come with side effects like appetite suppression or sleep disruption, creating a new set of challenges.

Why quick fixes don’t work for complex ADHD

ADHD is not a simple problem, and it doesn’t have a simple solution. The pressure to find a “quick fix” often leads to frustration when a single medication or strategy doesn’t solve everything. Because ADHD impacts every area of life and is influenced by a wide range of biological and environmental factors, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. True progress requires a plan that is as dynamic and complex as the condition itself.

The need for personalized and integrative care

A one-size-fits-all approach is what leaves so many people feeling let down by ADHD treatment. A truly effective plan must be personalized to your unique biology, lifestyle, and goals. This is where integrative care excels. It combines the best of conventional medicine, including medication when needed, with a deeper investigation into root causes. Programs like The BLISS Protocol are designed to provide this comprehensive, personalized care, moving beyond symptom management to foster genuine healing. Our guide on “Precision Psychiatry for ADHD” further explores how we tailor these plans.

The Functional Psychiatry Approach to ADHD

Functional psychiatry offers a revolutionary way of thinking about ADHD. Instead of asking, “What medication will treat these symptoms?”, it asks, “Why is this person’s brain struggling with executive function in the first place?” This shift in perspective opens up a whole new world of treatment possibilities.

Treating the person, not just the diagnosis

A diagnosis is a label that describes a cluster of symptoms; it is not a complete picture of a person. A functional approach looks beyond the ADHD label to understand you as an individual. It considers your unique genetic makeup, biochemistry, lifestyle, and environment to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. This is the essence of personalized medicine.

How lab testing and brain-body data guide treatment

To get a clear picture of your unique biology, functional medicine uses advanced lab testing. These tests can identify issues that are known to contribute to ADHD symptoms, such as:

• Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron, zinc, magnesium)
• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., thyroid or cortisol issues)
• Inflammation
• Gut health problems (e.g., dysbiosis or “leaky gut”)

The data from these tests allows us to move from guesswork to precision, creating a targeted plan that addresses the specific imbalances in your system.

The difference between functional, integrative, and conventional psychiatry

It can be helpful to think of these approaches on a spectrum:

• Conventional Psychiatry: Focuses on diagnosis and symptom management, primarily through medication and therapy.
• Integrative Psychiatry: Broadens the conventional model to include considerations of lifestyle, nutrition, and complementary therapies alongside medication. This is a more holistic view.
• Functional Psychiatry: A subspecialty of iIntegrative psychiatry that uses a systems-based approach and advanced lab testing to identify and treat the root causes of symptoms.

Our practice brings all of these approaches together, using the right tools for the right person at the right time. Our guide, “Natural ADHD Remedies for Adults: A Functional Psychiatry Approach,” explains this in more detail.

How Nutrition, Gut Health, and Genetics Affect Focus

The brain does not exist in a vacuum. Its ability to function optimally is directly dependent on the health of the rest of the body. For individuals with ADHD, three areas are particularly important: nutrition, gut health, and genetics.

The gut-brain connection and its role in ADHD

The gut is often called the “second brain” for good reason. It communicates directly with the brain via the vagus nerve and produces a significant amount of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are critical for focus and mood. When the gut microbiome is out of balance (a state called dysbiosis), it can lead to inflammation and reduced neurotransmitter production, worsening ADHD symptoms. 

Key nutrients and supplements that support attention

The brain requires a steady supply of specific nutrients to function properly. Deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals are common in individuals with ADHD and can significantly impact attention and mood. Some of the most important nutrients include iron, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. 

How genetic testing informs medication and nutrition choices

Your genes can influence everything from your risk for ADHD to how you respond to certain medications and foods. Precision psychiatry uses genetic testing to provide insights into your unique makeup. This data can help us choose the most effective medication with the fewest side effects and tailor nutritional recommendations to your specific needs, creating a truly personalized treatment plan.

The BLISS Protocol for ADHD: Personalized, Root-Cause Care

To bring all of these elements together into a cohesive and effective plan, we created The BLISS Protocol. This is our signature program, designed to provide a structured, supportive, and science-based pathway for treating complex conditions like ADHD.

A step-by-step look at the assessment process

The process begins with a comprehensive assessment that goes far beyond a standard questionnaire. It includes a deep dive into your personal and family history, a review of your symptoms and lifestyle, and a discussion of your personal goals. This initial consultation allows us to understand you as a whole person and determine the best path forward.

Functional testing for ADHD (labs, hormones, inflammation)

Based on your initial assessment, we will recommend a panel of functional medicine lab tests. These are typically done with at-home kits and provide invaluable data on your nutrient status, hormone balance, inflammation levels, and gut health. This information allows us to identify the specific biological imbalances that may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.

Two tracks of care: Coaching vs Clinical

The BLISS Protocol offers two distinct tracks to meet your unique needs:

• The Clinical Track: This medically supervised track is for individuals who may benefit from medication management in addition to a functional medicine approach.
• The Coaching Track: This track is focused on implementing lifestyle, nutrition, and supplement recommendations with the support and accountability of a dedicated health coach.

Many patients utilize our online psychiatry services for the convenience of these sessions.

How long it takes to see results

Healing is a journey, not a race. While some patients notice improvements in a matter of weeks, addressing deep-seated biological imbalances takes time. The BLISS Protocol is a long-term partnership aimed at creating sustainable change. We will be with you every step of the way, monitoring your progress, adjusting your plan, and celebrating your successes.

How to Get Started with an Integrative ADHD Plan

Taking the first step toward a new approach to ADHD can feel daunting, but the process is more straightforward than you might think. It begins with a simple conversation and a commitment to exploring a more comprehensive path to wellness.

What to expect in your first consultation

Your first consultation at our practice is a 90-minute deep dive designed for us to get to know you. You will have ample time to share your story, your struggles, and your goals. We will explain our approach, answer your questions, and discuss potential next steps. You will leave with a sense of clarity, hope, and the feeling of being truly heard.

How hybrid and telepsychiatry options work

We understand that life in Brooklyn is busy. To make care as accessible as possible, we offer both in-person and virtual appointments. Our strong online psychiatry platform allows you to connect with us from the comfort of your home or office, eliminating travel time and making it easier to stay consistent with your care.

Questions to ask your provider before starting ADHD treatment

When considering any new provider, it’s important to be an informed consumer. Come to your consultation prepared with questions, such as:

• What is your overall philosophy on treating ADHD?
• How do you incorporate lab testing and nutrition into your plans?
• What is your approach to medication?
• What kind of support is offered between appointments?

Ready to Begin? Schedule a Consultation

You don’t have to navigate the challenges of ADHD alone. A personalized, science-based approach can help you or your child move from a place of struggle to one of strength, clarity, and confidence.

Start your ADHD journey with clarity and confidence

The path to lasting focus and calm begins with understanding the root causes of your symptoms. Our comprehensive assessment process is designed to give you the clarity you need to move forward.

Connect with Dr. Lewis online or in person

With flexible telepsychiatry and in-person options at our Brooklyn office, high-quality care is more accessible than ever. Choose the format that works best for your life.

Experience science-based, personalized ADHD care

You deserve more than a one-size-fits-all solution. Discover how a plan tailored to your unique biology can make all the difference.

Book your consultation today to learn more about our approach to ADHD and The BLISS Protocol.