How To Understand ADD and ADHD

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) also is commonly known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD). The name ADD was changed to AD/HD in 1994. However, the term continues to describe symptoms that do not include hyperactivity. People affected by this condition find it difficult to concentrate and focus as well as sit in one place for extended periods of time. Changes in the parts of the brain that enable control of activity and attention cause AD/HD symptoms, which are separated into three categories: distractibility, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Things You'll Need

• AD/HD information pamphlets

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Instructions

• 1

  Analyze and assess the symptoms associated with ADD or AD/HD. To determine whether a person has inattention issues, observe the patient. An inattentive patient does not heed words when spoken to directly, gets distracted easily and has problems focusing on the tasks given. Other symptoms would include inability to complete assignments and duties given and a tendency to avoid tasks that test mental skills. Patients also are examined based on their ages. For instance, if a 3-year-old and a 5-year-old were examined, they would be judged by different criteria than an older child.

• 2

  Seek multiple opinions from doctors who work with a large number of Attention Deficit Disorder cases. Professionals need only to know that the patient is suffering from any six of these symptoms from both categories over a time period of six months to confirm that the patient is suffering from AD/HD. Diagnosis of the disorder remains a calculated science. Under the treatment of dedicated professionals, the effects of the disorder can subside.

• 3

  Practice patience, tolerance and understanding. AD/HD symptoms are mainly assessed during a child's elementary school years. During this time period, a child undergoes structured changes in society that make it easier to diagnose the problem and determine a solution. Many children grow out of the disorder after they reach their teenage years. AD/HD patients commonly struggle with the disorder's symptoms throughout their life. Parents who are patient and understanding ease the daily struggle for everyone.