Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity. ADHD is one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders in children and often carries over into adulthood. Approximately 78% of children with ADHD have at least one other co-occurring condition, making early identification and treatment essential. This year’s theme for ADHD Awareness Month is “The Many Faces of ADHD.” To learn about myths about an ADHD diagnosis and get answers to common questions about ADHD, visit adhdawarenessmonth.org.
Sources: www.cdc.gov, www.adhdawarenessmonth.org
Online ADHD Resources:
- CHADD of RI is the local chapter of the national nonprofit organization CHADD, which seeks to provide education and support with ADHD in adults and children. This group meets virtually on the first Wednesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, visit chadd.org or call (401) 369-0045.
- ADDA is a nonprofit organization for adults with ADHD which provides information, webinars, workshops, and virtual support groups. For more information, visit add.org
- ACO contains the largest directory of ADHD coaches. For more information, visit adhdcoaches.org.
BCBSRI offers the following mental health treatment programs for members:
Child and Family Intensive Services (CFIT): CFIT provides services for children and their families through a team approach that is designed to engage the member and his/her family by improving level of functioning, promoting healthy lifestyles, and teaching community integration skills. Services are available to BCBSRI commercial members. To find an in-network provider offering CFIT services, please contact BCBSRI Behavioral Health Case Management at 1-800-274-2958.
BH Link: A 24/7 community-based walk-in crisis facility which offers immediate assistance to members experiencing a behavioral health crisis. A team of registered nurses, counselors, psychiatrists, phone screeners, and peer specialists provide innovative crisis intervention services for up to 23 hours followed by connection to ongoing treatment if needed. Services are available to BCBSRI commercial members. Please call (401) 414-LINK for assistance or contact BCBSRI Behavioral Health Case Management at 1-800-274-2958.
Kid’s Link RI: A 24/7 clinical triage line to connect children and youth in crisis in need of mental health services. Services are available to BCBSRI commercial members. Please call 1-855-543-5465 or contact BCBSRI Behavioral Health Case Management at 1-800-274-2958 for assistance.
Mobile Crisis: Mobile Crisis services provide immediate access to care for children and youth experiencing a behavioral health crisis, utilizing the Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) model. Services are available to BCBSRI commercial members. To find an in-network provider offering mobile crisis services, please contact Behavioral Health Care Management at 1-800-274-2958.
Urgent access appointments: BCBSRI has collaborated with providers throughout Rhode Island to ensure that our members have access to urgent appointments for behavioral health needs, such as outpatient therapy and medication management. These providers have dedicated time slots available exclusively for BCBSRI commercial and Medicare Advantage members. To find a provider with urgent access availability, please contact BCBSRI Behavioral Health Case Management at 1-800-274-2958 for assistance.