What is the Difference Between ADHD & ADD?
Many people are confused by the terminology used in describing ADHD. Often the terms ADD and ADHD are used interchangeably. The official term for the condition is ADHD. There are three subtypes of ADHD, combined type, predominately inattentive type and hyperactive type.
What Are the Characteristics of the Three Types of ADHD?
- ADHD Predominately Hyperactive/Impulsive Type:
The main characteristics are hyperactivity and impulsivity - ADHD Predominately Inattentive Type:
The main characteristics are inconsistent attention without hyperactivity - ADHD Combined Type:
The main characteristics are hyperactivity, impulsivity and inconsistent attention
What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?
- Difficulty focusing on a task
- Forgetfulness
- Problems with transitions
- Problems prioritizing, organizing & estimating time
- Procrastination
- Poor attention to detail
- Losing items
- Hyperactive
Hyper-responsiveness to emotions - Low tolerance for frustration
- Difficulty waiting your turn
- Trouble maintaining motivation
- Failure to complete tasks
- Impulsivity
- Day dreaming
- Problems with clutter
What Are the Strengths of People with ADHD?
- Creative
- Inquisitive
- Resourceful
- High energy
- Passionate
- Addaptable
- Resilient
- Interesting and fun
How Do People Manage ADHD?
The National Institute of Mental Health has developed a consensus statement outlining its stance on treating children, teens and adults with ADHD.
The Biology of ADHD
Prefrontal Cortex and Executive Functions: The prefrontal cortex acts as the brains conductor and orchestrates when and how certain components of the brain engage. Within the last decade there has been an increasing amount of attention given to the link between executive dysfunction and ADHD.
Anxiety Disorders
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Panic Disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder)
Depression Symptoms
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating, or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment.
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