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ADD In Men

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), more commonly called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is a common childhood condition. More frequently diagnosed in boys, experts believe it is under diagnosed in girls. A 2006 article in Psychology Medicine reports that ADHD persists into adulthood 65 percent of the time. For these adults, ADHD remains a constant struggle. Despite problems in relationships, on the job or with authorities, men are less likely than women to seek treatment.

  1. Symptoms

    • Inattention, distraction, impulsiveness, restlessness and hyperactivity characterize ADHD. Mood swings and a quick temper are common. It negatively affects a person's ability to concentrate, pay attention and complete tasks. Many people diagnosed with ADHD also have learning disorders, like dyslexia. Coping with stress is very difficult for people with this disorder.

    At Work and School

    • The ability to communicate well is frequently the key to success in school and on the job. Unfortunately, ADHD causes problems with verbal fluency making communication difficult and frustrating. Impulsiveness and distraction often lead to chronic lateness and disorganization. Setting priorities and completing assignments is very difficult. These problems cause children with ADHD to do poorer scholastically and quit school sooner than their ADHD-free counterparts. These same problems follow adult men into their jobs. For men with this disorder, being fired can become a frequent occurrence.

    Marriage and Relationships

    • Marriage and relationships can be difficult for a man with ADHD. Impulsiveness can lead to irresponsible behavior like deciding to buy a new gadget instead of paying the bills or missing the anniversary party to play basketball. The inability to pay attention causes misunderstandings. More angry, hurtful words are said in a fit of temper. These types of circumstances take a toll on relationships and many relationships don't last. People with ADHD are nearly twice as likely to divorce than those without the disorder.

    Hope for the Future

    • Men with ADHD face a lifetime challenge. However, treatment is readily available. Medication and behavior therapy are very helpful. Triumph is possible. Men like Jim Carrey, Terry Bradshaw, Bruce Jenner, Pete Rose, Sir Richard Branson Michael Phelps, and David Neeleman (JetBlue Airways) all have ADHD. Their treatment approaches vary, yet each of them found a way to cope with their symptoms. They discovered ways to minimize their shortcomings and maximize their strengths. They proved that ADHD is merely an obstacle to overcome and not a roadblock.

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