ADD VS ADHD
ADD and ADHD are medical abbreviations, used in diagnosis and treatment of behavioral disorders in
children and adults. ADHD and ADD are well-known abbreviations in the USA, UK, Ireland, Sweden,
Iceland, Denmark, Netherlands, Norway, Finland, Canada, Malta and Australia.
ADD vs ADHD definitions
ADD – is an abbreviation of «attention deficit disorder» diagnosis. ADHD – is an abbreviation on
«attention deficit hyperactivity disorder» diagnosis. These are interchangeable abbreviations, meaning
identical diseases. Both behavioral disorders ADD and ADHD are characterized by similar symptoms that
can be treated using the same medications.
In the medical literature, ADD and ADHD abbreviations are written through slash, while medical staff
usually uses ADHD and ADD to describe the symptoms, signs, causes and methods of treatment of the
same disorders.
ADD vs ADHD – adults and children
It should be noted that ADD (attention deficit disorder) is an archaic term, which is almost not used by
doctors these days. The reason why ADD term is not popular anymore lies in its inaccuracy.
An overwhelming majority of children and adults with attention deficit disorder are overactive and
excessively anxious as a rule. Therefore, the ADHD term (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
characterizes the symptoms of this behavioral disorder more accurately.
Please note that hyperactivity is a symptom, mostly observed in childhood. Therefore, many people
think of ADHD as of behavioral disorder in children in the first place.
Many people believe that ADHD (ADD) never occurs in adults. However, considering the fact that a lot of
ADHD symptoms are similar to symptoms of mental disorder, adults with ADHD can be mistakenly
diagnosed depression or anxiety.
Depression and ADD (ADHD) in adults and children are cured by means of different medications.
Therefore, the diagnosis – is one of the key stages of treatment of behavioral disorders at any age.
ADD vs ADHD – diagnosis
The complexity of diagnosis of the behavioral disorders lies in that it has dozens of weakly pronounced
signs and symptoms. Besides, ADHD (or ADD) are only diagnosed when a child or adult has several
symptoms of the behavioral disorder at once.
ADD vs ADHD – differences
If a child or an adult is impulsive, inattentive and it is difficult for him to control his activity level, he is
diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
If a patient is inattentive, impulsive, yet is able to control his activity level, he is diagnosed with attention
deficit disorder without hyperactivity.
Despite the differences between ADHD and ADD symptoms, for their treatment, doctors use the same
meds. The most popular ADHD meds are sold under the trademarks Adderall, Strattera, Dexedrine,
Ritalin and Concerta. You can find information on these and other meds for ADHD (ADD) treatment in
the upcoming reviews.
Your child daydreams a lot at school and is easily distracted when he’s doing homework or chores.
Maybe he fidgets constantly. You might wonder if he has attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD). Or is it attention deficient disorder (ADD)?
Is there a difference?
Many people use the terms to mean the same thing — and that’s sometimes correct. But not always.
ADD is a type of ADHD that doesn’t involve constant movement and fidgeting. But it’s a blurry
distinction. The confusion dates to 1994. That’s when doctors decided all forms of attention-deficit
disorder would be called “attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder,” even if the person wasn’t
hyperactive.
Which term is right for your family to use depends on your child’s specific symptoms and diagnosis. It’s
important to talk with an experienced mental health provider to make sure your child gets the right
diagnosis.
Daydreamer or Fidgeter?
ADHD is a brain-based disorder. It can interfere with your child’s everyday activities at home and at
school. Kids who have it have trouble paying attention and controlling their behavior, and are
sometimes hyperactive.
Before she’s diagnosed, you will want to note your child’s symptoms. The CDC offers an ADHD checklist
for children that may help you keep track of them.
Here are the signs to look for:
Inattention:includes disorganization, problems staying on task, constant daydreaming, and not paying
attention when spoken to directly.
Impulsivity:includes spur-of-the-moment decisions without thinking about the chance of harm or long-
term effects. She acts quickly to get an immediate reward. She may regularly interrupt teachers, friends,
and family.
Hyperactivity:involves squirming, fidgeting, tapping, talking, and constant movement, especially in
situations where it’s not appropriate.
Mental health professionals in the United States use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental
Disorders (DSM) to diagnose all psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. The latest version divides it into
three types:
• ADHD predominantly inattentive presentation (ADD)
• ADHD predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
• ADHD combined presentation
• Your child’s diagnosis will depend on her specific symptoms.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders. ADHD is
a broad term, and the condition can vary from person to person. There are an estimated 6.4 million
diagnosed children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This condition is sometimes called attention deficit disorder (ADD), but this is an outdated term. The
term was once used to refer to someone who had trouble focusing but was not hyperactive. The
American Psychiatric Association released the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,
Fifth Edition (DSM-5) in May 2013. The DSM-5 changed the criteria to diagnose someone with ADHD.
Keep reading to learn more about the types and symptoms of ADHD.
Types of ADHD
There are three types of ADHD:
1. Inattentive
Inattentive ADHD is what’s usually meant when someone uses the term ADD. This means a person
shows enough symptoms of inattention (or easy distractibility) but isn’t hyperactive or impulsive.
2. Hyperactive/impulsive
This type occurs when a person has symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity but not inattention.
3. Combined
Combined ADHD is when a person has symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Inattention
Inattention, or trouble focusing, is one symptom of ADHD. A doctor may diagnose a child as inattentive
if the child:
• is easily distracted
• is forgetful, even in daily activities
• is unable to give close attention to details in school work or other activities and makes careless
mistakes
• has trouble keeping attention on tasks or activities
• ignores a speaker, even when spoken to directly
• doesn’t follow instructions
• fails to finish schoolwork or chores
• loses focus or is easily side-tracked
• has trouble with organization
• dislikes and avoids tasks that require long periods of mental effort, such as homework
• loses vital things needed for tasks and activities
• Hyperactivity and impulsivity
• A doctor may diagnose a child as hyperactive or impulsive if the child:
• appears to be always on the go
• talks excessively
• has severe difficulty waiting for their turn
• squirms in their seat, taps their hands or feet, or fidgets
• gets up from a seat when expected to remain seated
• runs around or climbs in inappropriate situations
• is unable to quietly play or take part in leisure activities
• blurts out an answer before someone finishes asking a question
• intrudes on and interrupts others constantly
• Other symptoms
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are important symptoms for an ADHD diagnosis. In addition, a
child or adult must meet the following criteria to be diagnosed with ADHD:
displays several symptoms before the age of 12
has symptoms in more than one setting, such as school, at home, with friends, or during other activities
shows clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with their functioning at school, work, or in social
situations
has symptoms that are not explained by another condition, such as mood or anxiety disorders
Adult ADHD
Adults with ADHD have typically had the disorder since childhood, but it may not be diagnosed until
later in life. An evaluation usually occurs at the prompting of a peer, family member, or co-worker who
observes problems at work or in relationships.
Adults can have any of the three subtypes of ADHD. Adult ADHD symptoms can differ from those of
children because of the relative maturity of adults, as well as physical differences between adults and
children.
Severity
The symptoms of ADHD can range from mild to severe, depending on a person’s unique physiology and
environment. Some people are mildly inattentive or hyperactive when they perform a task they don’t
enjoy, but they have the ability to focus on tasks they like. Others may experience more severe
symptoms. These can affect school, work, and social situations.
Symptoms are often more severe in unstructured group situations than in structured situations with
rewards. For example, a playground is a more unstructured group situation. A classroom may represent
a structured and rewards-based environment.
Other conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or a learning disability may worsen symptoms.
Some people report that symptoms go away with age. An adult with ADHD who was hyperactive as a
child may find that they’re now able to remain seated or curb some impulsivity.
ADHD Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (ADD)
Kids with this condition aren’t hyperactive. They don’t have the high energy level seen in others with
ADHD. In fact, children with this form may seem shy or “in their own world.”
ADD is diagnosed if a child under age 16 has 6 or more symptoms of inattention (5 or more for older
teens) for at least 6 consecutive months but no signs of hyperactivity/impulsivity.
The symptoms include:
• Trouble paying attention (easily side-tracked)
• Doesn’t like or avoids long mental tasks (such as homework)
• Trouble staying on task during school, at home, or even at play
• Disorganized and seems forgetful
• Doesn’t appear to listen when directly spoken to
• Doesn’t pay close attention to details
• Loses things often
• Makes careless mistakes
• Struggles to follow through with instructions
• Children with this subtype of ADHD may go undiagnosed because the symptoms may be chalked
up to daydreaming.
ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
Children with this form of ADHD have tons of energy and are constantly moving in a way that causes
problems. It’s diagnosed if a child under age 16 has 6 or more hyperactive/impulse symptoms for at
least 6 months (5 or more for older teens). This form is more noticeable than the inattentive type.
Symptoms include:
• Blurting out answers before a question is finished
• Constantly interrupting others
• Trouble waiting his turn
• Talks too much
• Fidgeting, tapping, and squirming
• Gets up when it’s not appropriate (such as when the teacher is talking or in the middle of
dinner)
• Running or climbing in inappropriate situations
• Unable to play quietly
For more information visit us our website: http://www.healthinfi.com

More Related Content

PPT
The Difference Between ADD & ADHD
PPT
Adhd presentation
PPTX
KIPP ADHD presentation Kurtz
PDF
Adhd in adults. david carey presentation, hadd meeting, 22 september 2009pdf
PPTX
ADD/ADHD
PPT
ADHD in Adults
PDF
ADHD Guest Lecture 2016
PPTX
Attention deficit Hyperavtivity Disorder
The Difference Between ADD & ADHD
Adhd presentation
KIPP ADHD presentation Kurtz
Adhd in adults. david carey presentation, hadd meeting, 22 september 2009pdf
ADD/ADHD
ADHD in Adults
ADHD Guest Lecture 2016
Attention deficit Hyperavtivity Disorder

What's hot (20)

PPTX
Adhd in-adults
PPTX
ADHD Powerpoint
PPTX
ADHD: Symptoms, Types, Causes & Treatment | Mindsight Clinic
PPTX
ADHD: Mohammad Moosa
PPTX
ADHD
PDF
ADHD- Controlling The Mental Itch With Homeopathy
PPTX
PPTX
PPTX
Adhd presentation
PPTX
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
PPTX
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
PDF
NIMH · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
PPTX
Attention deficit hyperactive disorder
PPTX
PPTX
ADHD and its strategies
PPTX
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children
DOC
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
PDF
What is Attention Deficit Disorder?
PDF
NIMH · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Adhd in-adults
ADHD Powerpoint
ADHD: Symptoms, Types, Causes & Treatment | Mindsight Clinic
ADHD: Mohammad Moosa
ADHD
ADHD- Controlling The Mental Itch With Homeopathy
Adhd presentation
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
NIMH · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention deficit hyperactive disorder
ADHD and its strategies
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
What is Attention Deficit Disorder?
NIMH · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Ad

Similar to Add vs adhd (20)

PDF
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd) and desoxyn medication
PPT
Understanding ADHD
DOCX
understanding-adhd-1223056849089369-9.docx
PPTX
Treating Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children and Adol...
PDF
Understanding ADHD - Key Facts and Insights About ADHD.pdf
PPTX
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.pptx
PDF
Essay On ADHD Treatment
PDF
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (NIMH)
PPTX
Adult ADHD Unmasked Understanding and Thriving.pptx
PPTX
ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children
PDF
ADHD - InfoBarrel
PPTX
Adderall Alternatives
PDF
Understanding the Impact of ADHD - Effects on Daily Life.pdf
DOCX
Adh dbeginsinchildhood
PPT
adhd.ppt
PDF
NIMH · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
PDF
ADHD - InfoBarrel
PPTX
Attention defender hyperactivity disorder
PDF
A Brief Guide to ADHD Testing
PDF
Attention Deficit Disorder ( Adhd )
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd) and desoxyn medication
Understanding ADHD
understanding-adhd-1223056849089369-9.docx
Treating Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children and Adol...
Understanding ADHD - Key Facts and Insights About ADHD.pdf
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.pptx
Essay On ADHD Treatment
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (NIMH)
Adult ADHD Unmasked Understanding and Thriving.pptx
ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children
ADHD - InfoBarrel
Adderall Alternatives
Understanding the Impact of ADHD - Effects on Daily Life.pdf
Adh dbeginsinchildhood
adhd.ppt
NIMH · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD - InfoBarrel
Attention defender hyperactivity disorder
A Brief Guide to ADHD Testing
Attention Deficit Disorder ( Adhd )
Ad

More from Ishita Patel (20)

DOCX
What is hypertension
DOCX
Blood pressure range for men
DOCX
Blood pessure cuff
DOCX
Natural ways to lower blood pressure
DOCX
Home remedies for high blood pressure instantly
DOCX
Systolic pressure definition
DOCX
What is high blood pressure
DOCX
What is bladder cancer
DOCX
Blood donation and transfusion guidelines
DOCX
Birth control pills
DOCX
Birth control for men
DOCX
Menopause
DOCX
Female reproductive system diagram
DOCX
Hormones definition
DOCX
When using oral contraceptives
DOCX
Birth control pills
DOCX
Bipolar disorder test
DOCX
Biofeedback definition
DOCX
Self care for lower back pain
DOCX
Ginseng erectile dysfunction stud
What is hypertension
Blood pressure range for men
Blood pessure cuff
Natural ways to lower blood pressure
Home remedies for high blood pressure instantly
Systolic pressure definition
What is high blood pressure
What is bladder cancer
Blood donation and transfusion guidelines
Birth control pills
Birth control for men
Menopause
Female reproductive system diagram
Hormones definition
When using oral contraceptives
Birth control pills
Bipolar disorder test
Biofeedback definition
Self care for lower back pain
Ginseng erectile dysfunction stud

Recently uploaded (20)

PDF
The Digestive System Science Educational Presentation in Dark Orange, Blue, a...
PPTX
Effects of lipid metabolism 22 asfelagi.pptx
PDF
Calcified coronary lesions management tips and tricks
PDF
Copy of OB - Exam #2 Study Guide. pdf
PPTX
09. Diabetes in Pregnancy/ gestational.pptx
PPTX
Neoplasia III.pptxjhghgjhfj fjfhgfgdfdfsrbvhv
PDF
Plant-Based Antimicrobials: A New Hope for Treating Diarrhea in HIV Patients...
PPT
Infections Member of Royal College of Physicians.ppt
PPTX
Vaccines and immunization including cold chain , Open vial policy.pptx
PDF
Transcultural that can help you someday.
PPTX
IMAGING EQUIPMENiiiiìiiiiiTpptxeiuueueur
PPT
nephrology MRCP - Member of Royal College of Physicians ppt
PDF
OSCE Series Set 1 ( Questions & Answers ).pdf
PPTX
NRP and care of Newborn.pptx- APPT presentation about neonatal resuscitation ...
PPT
neurology Member of Royal College of Physicians (MRCP).ppt
PPTX
NUCLEAR-MEDICINE-Copy.pptxbabaabahahahaahha
PPTX
CARDIOVASCULAR AND RENAL DRUGS.pptx for health study
PDF
OSCE SERIES - Set 7 ( Questions & Answers ).pdf
PPTX
Wheat allergies and Disease in gastroenterology
PDF
focused on the development and application of glycoHILIC, pepHILIC, and comm...
The Digestive System Science Educational Presentation in Dark Orange, Blue, a...
Effects of lipid metabolism 22 asfelagi.pptx
Calcified coronary lesions management tips and tricks
Copy of OB - Exam #2 Study Guide. pdf
09. Diabetes in Pregnancy/ gestational.pptx
Neoplasia III.pptxjhghgjhfj fjfhgfgdfdfsrbvhv
Plant-Based Antimicrobials: A New Hope for Treating Diarrhea in HIV Patients...
Infections Member of Royal College of Physicians.ppt
Vaccines and immunization including cold chain , Open vial policy.pptx
Transcultural that can help you someday.
IMAGING EQUIPMENiiiiìiiiiiTpptxeiuueueur
nephrology MRCP - Member of Royal College of Physicians ppt
OSCE Series Set 1 ( Questions & Answers ).pdf
NRP and care of Newborn.pptx- APPT presentation about neonatal resuscitation ...
neurology Member of Royal College of Physicians (MRCP).ppt
NUCLEAR-MEDICINE-Copy.pptxbabaabahahahaahha
CARDIOVASCULAR AND RENAL DRUGS.pptx for health study
OSCE SERIES - Set 7 ( Questions & Answers ).pdf
Wheat allergies and Disease in gastroenterology
focused on the development and application of glycoHILIC, pepHILIC, and comm...

Add vs adhd

  • 1. ADD VS ADHD ADD and ADHD are medical abbreviations, used in diagnosis and treatment of behavioral disorders in children and adults. ADHD and ADD are well-known abbreviations in the USA, UK, Ireland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Netherlands, Norway, Finland, Canada, Malta and Australia. ADD vs ADHD definitions ADD – is an abbreviation of «attention deficit disorder» diagnosis. ADHD – is an abbreviation on «attention deficit hyperactivity disorder» diagnosis. These are interchangeable abbreviations, meaning identical diseases. Both behavioral disorders ADD and ADHD are characterized by similar symptoms that can be treated using the same medications. In the medical literature, ADD and ADHD abbreviations are written through slash, while medical staff usually uses ADHD and ADD to describe the symptoms, signs, causes and methods of treatment of the same disorders. ADD vs ADHD – adults and children It should be noted that ADD (attention deficit disorder) is an archaic term, which is almost not used by doctors these days. The reason why ADD term is not popular anymore lies in its inaccuracy. An overwhelming majority of children and adults with attention deficit disorder are overactive and excessively anxious as a rule. Therefore, the ADHD term (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) characterizes the symptoms of this behavioral disorder more accurately. Please note that hyperactivity is a symptom, mostly observed in childhood. Therefore, many people think of ADHD as of behavioral disorder in children in the first place. Many people believe that ADHD (ADD) never occurs in adults. However, considering the fact that a lot of ADHD symptoms are similar to symptoms of mental disorder, adults with ADHD can be mistakenly diagnosed depression or anxiety. Depression and ADD (ADHD) in adults and children are cured by means of different medications. Therefore, the diagnosis – is one of the key stages of treatment of behavioral disorders at any age. ADD vs ADHD – diagnosis The complexity of diagnosis of the behavioral disorders lies in that it has dozens of weakly pronounced signs and symptoms. Besides, ADHD (or ADD) are only diagnosed when a child or adult has several symptoms of the behavioral disorder at once.
  • 2. ADD vs ADHD – differences If a child or an adult is impulsive, inattentive and it is difficult for him to control his activity level, he is diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. If a patient is inattentive, impulsive, yet is able to control his activity level, he is diagnosed with attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity. Despite the differences between ADHD and ADD symptoms, for their treatment, doctors use the same meds. The most popular ADHD meds are sold under the trademarks Adderall, Strattera, Dexedrine, Ritalin and Concerta. You can find information on these and other meds for ADHD (ADD) treatment in the upcoming reviews. Your child daydreams a lot at school and is easily distracted when he’s doing homework or chores. Maybe he fidgets constantly. You might wonder if he has attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Or is it attention deficient disorder (ADD)? Is there a difference? Many people use the terms to mean the same thing — and that’s sometimes correct. But not always. ADD is a type of ADHD that doesn’t involve constant movement and fidgeting. But it’s a blurry distinction. The confusion dates to 1994. That’s when doctors decided all forms of attention-deficit disorder would be called “attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder,” even if the person wasn’t hyperactive. Which term is right for your family to use depends on your child’s specific symptoms and diagnosis. It’s important to talk with an experienced mental health provider to make sure your child gets the right diagnosis. Daydreamer or Fidgeter? ADHD is a brain-based disorder. It can interfere with your child’s everyday activities at home and at school. Kids who have it have trouble paying attention and controlling their behavior, and are sometimes hyperactive.
  • 3. Before she’s diagnosed, you will want to note your child’s symptoms. The CDC offers an ADHD checklist for children that may help you keep track of them. Here are the signs to look for: Inattention:includes disorganization, problems staying on task, constant daydreaming, and not paying attention when spoken to directly. Impulsivity:includes spur-of-the-moment decisions without thinking about the chance of harm or long- term effects. She acts quickly to get an immediate reward. She may regularly interrupt teachers, friends, and family. Hyperactivity:involves squirming, fidgeting, tapping, talking, and constant movement, especially in situations where it’s not appropriate. Mental health professionals in the United States use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to diagnose all psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. The latest version divides it into three types: • ADHD predominantly inattentive presentation (ADD) • ADHD predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation • ADHD combined presentation • Your child’s diagnosis will depend on her specific symptoms. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders. ADHD is a broad term, and the condition can vary from person to person. There are an estimated 6.4 million diagnosed children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This condition is sometimes called attention deficit disorder (ADD), but this is an outdated term. The term was once used to refer to someone who had trouble focusing but was not hyperactive. The American Psychiatric Association released the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) in May 2013. The DSM-5 changed the criteria to diagnose someone with ADHD. Keep reading to learn more about the types and symptoms of ADHD. Types of ADHD
  • 4. There are three types of ADHD: 1. Inattentive Inattentive ADHD is what’s usually meant when someone uses the term ADD. This means a person shows enough symptoms of inattention (or easy distractibility) but isn’t hyperactive or impulsive. 2. Hyperactive/impulsive This type occurs when a person has symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity but not inattention. 3. Combined Combined ADHD is when a person has symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Inattention Inattention, or trouble focusing, is one symptom of ADHD. A doctor may diagnose a child as inattentive if the child: • is easily distracted • is forgetful, even in daily activities • is unable to give close attention to details in school work or other activities and makes careless mistakes • has trouble keeping attention on tasks or activities • ignores a speaker, even when spoken to directly • doesn’t follow instructions • fails to finish schoolwork or chores • loses focus or is easily side-tracked • has trouble with organization • dislikes and avoids tasks that require long periods of mental effort, such as homework • loses vital things needed for tasks and activities • Hyperactivity and impulsivity • A doctor may diagnose a child as hyperactive or impulsive if the child: • appears to be always on the go • talks excessively • has severe difficulty waiting for their turn • squirms in their seat, taps their hands or feet, or fidgets • gets up from a seat when expected to remain seated • runs around or climbs in inappropriate situations
  • 5. • is unable to quietly play or take part in leisure activities • blurts out an answer before someone finishes asking a question • intrudes on and interrupts others constantly • Other symptoms Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are important symptoms for an ADHD diagnosis. In addition, a child or adult must meet the following criteria to be diagnosed with ADHD: displays several symptoms before the age of 12 has symptoms in more than one setting, such as school, at home, with friends, or during other activities shows clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with their functioning at school, work, or in social situations has symptoms that are not explained by another condition, such as mood or anxiety disorders Adult ADHD Adults with ADHD have typically had the disorder since childhood, but it may not be diagnosed until later in life. An evaluation usually occurs at the prompting of a peer, family member, or co-worker who observes problems at work or in relationships. Adults can have any of the three subtypes of ADHD. Adult ADHD symptoms can differ from those of children because of the relative maturity of adults, as well as physical differences between adults and children. Severity The symptoms of ADHD can range from mild to severe, depending on a person’s unique physiology and environment. Some people are mildly inattentive or hyperactive when they perform a task they don’t enjoy, but they have the ability to focus on tasks they like. Others may experience more severe symptoms. These can affect school, work, and social situations. Symptoms are often more severe in unstructured group situations than in structured situations with rewards. For example, a playground is a more unstructured group situation. A classroom may represent a structured and rewards-based environment. Other conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or a learning disability may worsen symptoms. Some people report that symptoms go away with age. An adult with ADHD who was hyperactive as a child may find that they’re now able to remain seated or curb some impulsivity.
  • 6. ADHD Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (ADD) Kids with this condition aren’t hyperactive. They don’t have the high energy level seen in others with ADHD. In fact, children with this form may seem shy or “in their own world.” ADD is diagnosed if a child under age 16 has 6 or more symptoms of inattention (5 or more for older teens) for at least 6 consecutive months but no signs of hyperactivity/impulsivity. The symptoms include: • Trouble paying attention (easily side-tracked) • Doesn’t like or avoids long mental tasks (such as homework) • Trouble staying on task during school, at home, or even at play • Disorganized and seems forgetful • Doesn’t appear to listen when directly spoken to • Doesn’t pay close attention to details • Loses things often • Makes careless mistakes • Struggles to follow through with instructions • Children with this subtype of ADHD may go undiagnosed because the symptoms may be chalked up to daydreaming. ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation Children with this form of ADHD have tons of energy and are constantly moving in a way that causes problems. It’s diagnosed if a child under age 16 has 6 or more hyperactive/impulse symptoms for at least 6 months (5 or more for older teens). This form is more noticeable than the inattentive type. Symptoms include: • Blurting out answers before a question is finished • Constantly interrupting others • Trouble waiting his turn • Talks too much • Fidgeting, tapping, and squirming • Gets up when it’s not appropriate (such as when the teacher is talking or in the middle of dinner)
  • 7. • Running or climbing in inappropriate situations • Unable to play quietly For more information visit us our website: http://www.healthinfi.com