ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) - Characteristics, Symptoms, and Treatment

by Barbara Averre, MHPCS, M.A

In adults and children, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are real syndromes more serious than just excess energy or difficulty concentrating. A person suffering from ADHD finds it almost impossible to complete the necessary tasks to function successfully in life.

Symptoms one might have with ADD or ADHD include the following:

• often does not follow through or finish projects such as schoolwork (not in the case of oppositional or defiant refusal to finish projects)
• often has difficulty sustaining attention
• often seems not to listen when spoken to
• often does not pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
• often has difficulty organizing tasks or activities
• often avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort
• often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (such as pens or books)
• often distracted easily
• often forgetful
• often has feelings of restlessness or runs about inappropriately, and often leaves seat when prolonged sitting is expected
• often fidgets with hands and feet or squirms
• often has difficulty engaging in quiet leisure activities
• is often on the go or seems to be motor driven
• often talks excessively
• often blurts responses before hearing an entire question
• often has difficulty waiting (especially for their turn)
• often interrupts or intrudes on others (butts in to their business)

Common characteristics of people with ADD or ADHD include:

• Academic difficulties or underachievement
• Low self-esteem or self-image
• Moodiness
• Temper outbursts
• Tendency to become frustrated quickly
• Poor response to discipline
• Poor social functioning despite the enjoyment of social activities
• Failure to consider outcomes of impulsive behavior
• Tendency to give others no peace
• Tendency to get into everything
• Tendency to fiddle with objects
• Inability to entertain themselves
• Impaired reasoning
• Impaired reaction time
• Difficulty inhibiting behavior
• Quick but inaccurate responses
• Problems regulating behavior
• Impaired memory
• Poor problem solving
• Tendency to rush through tasks and activities
• Attention seeking

Symptoms can fluctuate depending on environment, mood, and even time of day. An individual may be more symptomatic in a chaotic home environment or in a group situation than while watching baseball, for example.

Both medication and therapeutic treatment have proven to be effective with this disorder. Behavioral treatment, cognitive therapy, social skills training, and psychotherapy - over the long term – have proven the most effective.

The typical choice of medication would be a stimulant, such as Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall or Concerta. The administration of stimulants does not induce euphoria in someone with ADD or ADHD, like it would in the rest of us. In the general population, stimulants, like amphetamines, produce a marked increase in energy and speed up speech and behavior, which is why there is such abuse potential for this type of medication.

As with all medication, there are side effects. And anyone seeking medical treatment should thoroughly discuss their options with their prescribing doctor who will take into consideration other medication the person may be taking and any other coexisting symptoms a person may be experiencing. Usually full effect of the medication can be reached within 3-4 weeks, although some benefit is usually noticed within 2 weeks. The side effects are short lived and easily managed and often include changes in appetite, sleep habits, and mood. For about 20% of those with ADD or ADHD, medication has not shown to be effective, and therapy is the only alternative. For all patients, symptoms can be alleviated to some extent as long as they are willing to experiment to find out what works best for them, and devote themselves to getting well.

©2004 AskTheInternetTherapist.com