ADD A to Z: Your Guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Download Your Copy Today

ADHD is the acronym for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, which is similar to ADD or Attention Deficit Disorder. Experts estimate that millions of people currently suffer from ADHD, which includes adults and children alike. In fact, this problem has become so serious that it is estimated as many as 5% of all school age children suffer from it. Interestingly, studies have shown us that ADHD typically affects boys 75% more often than it does girls. In addition to affecting more than one million children, ADHD is also a battle for adults, creating frustration that is often associated with work and relationships. For the parent of a child with ADHD, this too is a frustrating time of constantly trying to get the child to behave “normally.”

This chronic neurobiological disorder affects a person’s ability to regulate activity level. With this type of disruption, the individual with ADHD feels an overwhelming sense of frustration, which leads to other problems such as confusion, forgetfulness, anxiety, and of course, hyperactivity. Although the terms ADD and ADHD are often interchanged, they are different. Even so, most of the characteristics are the same with the exception that people with ADHD have the added worry of hyperactivity. Because of this, trying to nail down a solid diagnosis and then determining the appropriate treatment can be challenging.

Now, it is important to understand that just because a person has ADHD, that does not necessarily mean he or she is worse than the person who has ADD, just that there is an added factor to the equation. In both cases, you would notice things such as a lack of motivation, emotional withdrawal, shyness, and often the person being in a dream-like state. Another interesting fact about ADHD is that since it has the hyperactivity factor, it is actually the more recognized of the two. Therefore, people with ADHD will often receive treatment much sooner than someone with ADD would, simply by being diagnosed earlier.

Another common problem for the person living with ADHD is that sustaining friendships and relationships is taxing. Although they want to get close, it is difficult. Although someone with ADHD finds it hard to focus and “sit still”, it is important to understand that there are wonderful new treatment options available. Sometimes, behavioral therapy will do amazing things whereas other times, prescription medication is required. In both instances, the key is to work with a reputable and qualified doctor that understands and supports ADHD. Therefore, if you have the symptoms or have a child with the symptoms of ADHD, do not feel as though you have lost the battle. In truth, with a confirmed diagnosis and proper treatment, you can have a great, fulfilled life.

The first step is to look at the common symptoms to see how many of them apply to your situation. While that in itself is not a diagnosis, it will give you an indication that something is going on. Remember, ADHD is nothing to be ashamed of and you did nothing wrong. Instead, this neurobiological problem just happens for unknown reasons. While experts who study ADHD believe there could be links to brain function and processing along with possible genetic theories, no one is 100% sure why. However, why is not as important as how to treat. Take charge of your life and talk to a professional so you can again regain control.
 

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