Here are a number of the most common questions I get asked about ADD and ADHD.
What is ADD? Although ADHD is really the technical medical name the disorder, it is still commonly called ADD. ADHD is a neurobiological disorder located in the prefrontal cortex, and it is also a type of brain wiring that is different than that of the general population, affecting all areas of functioning to a degree. The main area of life that it affects is the executive function, or the area of the brain that organizes, plans and executes goals.
People with ADHD have a short attention span, and are incapable of focusing for long periods of time; their minds tend to wander and drift, and they are easily distracted. They have trouble paying attention to daily, routine activities that do not provide high stimulation such as chores, homework, and paperwork. Unfortunately, these activities are everywhere and are needed in order to function in society.
The interesting thing about this disorder is that sufferers can pay attention very well to things that are new, very stimulating, interesting or upsetting. These events provide enough stimulation in and of themselves that they activate the part of the brain that enables concentration; people with ADD need this in order to focus, as they do not have enough adrenaline.
What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?
Attention Deficit Disorder is a very complex, and often times misunderstood, disorder. Its basis is physiological, but it can have a host of ramifications that come along with it. That aside, what are the differences between ADD and ADHD? ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, with the main symptoms being visible hyperactivity and/or impulsivity - the symptoms that stand out to the objective observer. ADD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder with the main symptoms being inattention. Many other things can come along with both of these subtypes of ADHD, but those are the distinguishing features of both. For many years, the typical picture of Attention Deficit Disorder has been the little boy that is bouncing off the walls and driving his teachers and parents crazy.
ADHD is by far the most diagnosed of the two subtypes because it is so much more visible than ADD. Hyperactivity creates a lot more distraction and problems in classrooms; therefore, it is far more noticeable. However, even though ADD is less visible, the results of the disorder can just as destructive.
With inattentive attention deficit disorder, or ADD, the person suffering from it will seem spacey and disorganized. Most often, sufferers with this type will be staring out the window during classes and will appear as if they are never quite present. This form of ADD is much more difficult to diagnose, and many sufferers go years without even knowing they have it.
What about Adult ADD? For many years, ADHD was thought to be a disorder suffered by children, and more specifically, one only found in young boys. With the evolvement of medical technology and research, it has become clear that many children with ADD do not outgrow it as they become adults.