Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

ADD And ADHD ? What Is The Difference? Find Such Answers Online

Image via Wikipedia

The internet has become a wonderful place to learn more about medical problems and disorders. Take the attention deficit disorder as an example. What is the difference between attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? Both these problems seem to be similar but the different terminology used may create the impression that these are two separate complications. The truth is that both these phrases refer to the same disorder.

The disorder involving attention incorporates three aspects-attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. A person suffering from this disorder may either remain inattentive despite your best efforts or may remain hyperactive despite your best efforts to calm that person down or may not show any hyperactivity but may be very impulsive in his or her actions.

These are three aspects or facets of the same disorder and have to be treated in a similar manner. This problem is common in kids. Statistics indicate that boys are at a higher risk for this disorder. However, the general perception is that boys are more boisterous and fun loving as compared to the girls. This often leads to teachers referring more boys for tests related to the attention deficit disorder. In such a scenario, the fact that a large number of boys are tested automatically has an impact on the results.

This disorder commences in the childhood and continues still adulthood. As the individual grows older, he or she finds ways and means to manage the same. Some persons give themselves time for their mind to wander. Other individuals make it a point to exert strict control over their hyperactivity.

Filed Under: ADD Help & Guidance, General Tagged With: ADHD predominantly inattentive, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Hyperactivity

ADHD: Assumptions and Offenses

Image courtesy of Wikipedia.com.

There are words that have chased your every moment. There are assumptions that have plagued your every thought. You’ve been deemed lazy, self-indulgent and phrases far less flattering. The masses think that you lack control, believe that you refuse to tame your impulses. And this has led to a lifetime of disappointed instructors, frustrated friends and employers who simply don’t understand. You’re branded weak; you’re called worthless; and your intelligence is doubted by all.

Such doubt isn’t warranted.

The notion of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (more typically named Adult ADHD) is one few understand. Though it impacts an estimated five percent of the global population, many confuse it with personality defects — believing that those who have it are simply refusing to mature.

This isn’t true.

Adult ADHD is a serious disorder. It does not deserve anger and misconceptions therefore. This illness is not proof of low intelligence or an inability to work. It’s instead merely the aftermath of overly-stimulated minds and the lack of defenses against an excess of neurological activity. This distinction is vital and must be understood. Those who have an attention deficiency are not less skilled than others; they’re merely defined by wavering focus and the need for specific treatments and techniques.

It cannot be assumed therefore that these individuals are without merit. They are often of above-average intellect and can provide creative insights into any project. Their forms of expression are merely unique.

And because of this the insults must cease. No adult deserves to be berated for what can’t be controlled. They instead deserve patience for what they must battle each day.

Filed Under: Facts & FAQ Tagged With: Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Mental health

The Co-Morbidity Concerns: ADHD

Circular logic — you’ve discovered — is a damning thing. Patterns are perpetuated; behaviors are repeated; and the most loathed gestures are completed again and again, simply because you lack the ability to stop them. Your thoughts can’t be controlled. Your actions can’t be tamed. Instead you are a collection of terrible impulses: each which cause you to relive the same mistakes. It’s a cycle of failure… and it’s one you can’t flee.

This is the horror of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (Adult ADHD) and it’s the arrival of co-morbidity. Explained simply: co-morbidity is the notion that the symptoms of a singular disease cause the appearance of other illnesses. This is particularly prevalent in those who have Adult ADHD, due to the unpredictable nature of the problem and the effects it can have on the mind and body.

Those burdened with Adult ADHD can suffer from many complications: such as depression, alcoholism, substance abuse, addiction, relationship difficulties, unemployment and more. These problems are not a reflection of individuals. They’re instead the aftermath of the disease itself. Those who battle it face prejudice, misconceptions and a lack of sympathy from others. This can lead to a shattered self-image and a dependence on reckless outlets (such as drugs or similar actions). The need to cope with an over-stimulated brain — and the misunderstandings of the public — can cause less than ideal behaviors. Co-morbidity soon follows, with an estimated 80 percent of adults showing traits of it.

It’s vital therefore that individuals recognize their limitations and seek treatment for them. Do not turn to impulsive choices. Try instead to find comfort in professional care.

Filed Under: Adult Attention Deficit Disorder Tagged With: Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Substance Abuse

Defying the Misconceptions: ADHD

High Dopamine Transporter Levels Not Correlate...

Image via Wikipedia

Science is shaped to assumptions, expectations, beliefs. The masses are certain only of the little truths they can quantify. There can be no changes; there can be no fickle ideas. All medical facts are to be understood and then tucked away, never to evolve into what must then be learned once more..

And this is why — too often — that Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (more commonly called Adult ADHD) is dismissed. Individuals assume that a disease cannot affect those beyond the age of 18. This is a child’s problem, it’s thought, and it eventually can be overcome with patience and experience. Age determines its existence.

This is not correct.

Adult ADHD is a genuine concern and can no longer be denied. It is estimated that 60 percent of those who are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD as children retain it as they grow older. Although the traits may vary in strength or frequency, they can still be recognized. And they will directly influence an individual’s ability to succeed — causing scattered thoughts, a loss of focus, an inability to remain seated and even depression (often sparked from the realization that a disease hasn’t faded).

This marks Adult ADHD as a serious complication therefore and it must be noted by all. The public can no longer maintain the notion of only children suffering from forgetfulness and procrastination. It is instead a problem for all ages — though it must be understood that ADHD does not appear in adults without first being seen in adolescence. This is an ailment that lasts a lifetime and it will not arrive suddenly.

Filed Under: Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Facts & FAQ Tagged With: ADHD predominantly inattentive, Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Overcome with Adult ADD

If you are affected with ADD then you have to cope up with it and put all your effort to come over it. There are many methods that help you overcome this problem it can be through medical help or through therapies.

The most common problem with an ADD affected person is that he will forget the work assigned to him. So when you face these kind of absent minded problems do not try to blame it on the others and rather go and help yourself to know what has actually happened by consulting a doctor. Once you are diagnosed with ADD you are responsible for your recovery. A person with ADD has to work really hard to get back on the track this can be done with the help of doctors or by changing the way of your lifestyle.

You should pay more attention on planning and scheduling your day to overcome ADD.

The following are tips for people effected with ADD, organize your day in a simple manner don’t fill your day with too many commitments keep it short as you don’t want to spend whole day by sitting idle. Doing less job is much easier when compared to doing lots of work together. Start treating yourself by simplifying life you can add work to your schedule slowly as you see progress in your health. Keep a notepad with you so that you don’t forget the payments you have made that day and make it a point to write down the work you have completed so that you don’t end up doing it twice. Always wear a watch and if necessary adjust alarms for events like lunch and appointments.

Filed Under: Adult ADD Treatment Tagged With: ADD and ADHD, Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

What are some methods for coping with Attention Deficit Disorder?

Aside from medication there are many methods and tricks individuals utilize to aid in dealing with both attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This simple advice might aid you, or it might not as these are merely tips and might not work for everyone as each individual has a different situation.

When having trouble in class students who suffer from ADD or ADHD are urged to ask their teacher to repeat task instructions when they have questions, take notes on the answer. Don’t be embarrassed.

Write everything down. Keep up with things you want to remember, take notes in situations where you deem it appropriate. Keep up with assignments, phone numbers, appointments, etc. in different areas as to reduce the amount of confusion.

Make great tasks small. Break things down into smaller simple assignments or tasks and set a time line for each. As you finish a task give yourself a reward.

Live through lists. Make a daily task list and place the daily tasks in order of importance. A calendar or day planner is often best for keeping yourself on track and in line in your scheduling.

Always work in an area with minimal distractions, keep it quiet. Attempt to only do one thing on your list at a time, take breaks, regroup, reward yourself for milestones achieved.

Don’t feel bad about posting reminder notes. Place the notes on your desk, mirror, fridge, wherever you must to be a constant reminder.

Remain organized. Group items which are similar together. Have a DVD collection? Keep them all together, close to the television. Simplify your life.

Coping with ADD and ADHD is something that must be rehearsed and practiced daily. You must commit new habits to memory and learn to control your ADD or ADHD. It is not impossible to keep a close eye on things and train yourself and instill more discipline.

Filed Under: Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Facts & FAQ Tagged With: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Health, Mental health, Time management