According to the National Resource Center on ADHD, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is an older term that has recently been replaced. Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD or AD/HD) now includes three subtypes:
- predominately inattentive (most likely formerly called ADD)
- predominately hyperactive/impulsive
- combined
Signs of all types of ADHD typically appear in childhood, but the symptoms can persist into adulthood. Diagnosing AD/HD of any subtype is difficult because many children will have problems focusing at some point in life; however, those who are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD tend to experience persistent symptoms that negatively affect more than area of their lives.
Symptoms of ADHD Inattentive Type
According to the above web site, in order to be diagnosed with AD/HD Predominately Inattentive Type, a person must have at least six of the following symptoms for at least six months:
- makes mistakes that are careless or fails to give needed attention to details
- has problems paying attention or focusing
- appears not to be listening
- has problems following instructions
- has difficulty with organization
- tries to avoid or does not like tasks that require sustained mental focus
- frequently loses items
- becomes distracted easily
- forgets daily activities
Because all people will display at least some of the above symptoms at some time, ADHD in children is considered if the behaviors occur more often or are more pronounced than one would expect in a child of that age. Adults with ADHD would be considered for diagnosis if they have symptoms that adversely affect how he or she functions in daily life. Those with these symptoms plus hyperactive tendencies may be diagnosed with the combined subtype, which tended to be called simply ADHD in the past.
ADHD Affects Many Areas of a Person’s Life
In order to make a diagnosis at any age, the above ADHD predominately inattentive type symptoms must negatively affect at least two areas of the affected person’s life, such as:
- home
- school
- work
- social settings
A variety of behavioral issues may appear as a result of any subtype of ADHD. Interpersonal relationships may be strained between the child and parent and/or caregivers as well as with other siblings. In children, problems with school academic performance as well as behavioral issues may arise in the classroom, while adults may find it difficult to function well at work.
Those with sensory processing disorder may experience issues with simple tasks such as getting dressed. Someone with ADHD may find it difficult to develop and maintain friendships, and those who are leading groups such as scout or church activities for youngsters may be ill-equipped to handle behavioral issues resulting from ADHD.
Other Conditions Related to and Occurring With ADHD
Various other health conditions would need to be ruled out before a healthcare provider can make a diagnosis of ADHD of any subtype. For example, a child who is experiencing hearing problems may simply not hear directions or be aware of homework assignments. Children with vision problems may easily misplace items and find it difficult to complete written work. Children may become easily frustrated if they cannot make themselves understood due to speech issues and may be helped by interventions such as speech therapy. Those who are anxious about stressful situations in the home may find it difficult to concentrate.
Children who have AD/HD may also have coexisting conditions such as:
- behavioral disorders (conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder)
- mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder)
- anxiety disorders
- tic disorders (Tourette’s disorder)
- learning disabilities (difficulties with motor skills, math, language, reading, writing, or auditory and visual processing)
People who have pervasive developmental disorders such as autism and Asperger’s tend to have difficulties in social situations and may display some behaviors similar to ADHD. These difficulties might be difficult to distinguish, particularly in those with multiple disorders. Children with other conditions, such as celiac disease and GERD and colic, may exhibit similar behavioral issues that may benefit from treatment and dietary changes. Those with nutritional deficiencies and all people can benefit from a healthy diet and a regular exercise program.
Effective Treatment for ADHD
Effective treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of approaches:
- educating the parent/caregiver and child or adult affected about ADHD
- developing specific behavior management techniques (also known as behavior modification or behavior therapy)
- incorporation of an educational program that will help meet the special needs of someone with ADHD (such as an accommodation plan)
According to studies cited by the National Resource Center for ADHD, the only well-researched, well-documented non-medical treatment for ADHD that has demonstrated effectiveness is behavior therapy. Some large studies have shown best results with a combination of medication and behavioral therapy including targeted social and psychological therapies with the next highest success rates achieved with medication alone, followed by targeted behavioral therapy by itself.
ADHD is Complex Condition Requiring Targeted Approach
A person can have ADHD at any age, but typically the symptoms will appear in childhood. Those symptoms negatively affect multiple areas of life such as school, work, and/or family and social relationships. Many other conditions may appear with ADHD or may mimic the symptoms of ADHD, so a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to adequately diagnose and properly treat this common condition.