ADD & ADHD
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or Attention Deficit Disorder is a very common ailment/condition amongst all age groups, including children, teens, and adults. ADHD or ADD is a behavior disorder which is based around paying attention concentration, organizational skills, setting long-term goals, and seeking or maintaining employment.
People who are diagnosed with these disorders are easily bored, distracted, or frustrated, which often results in tattered relationships, low self-esteem, and various addictions. Although there are many theories or beliefs as to what causes ADHD or ADD, it remains unknown. There are many symptoms which can be utilized as warning signs of the disorders.
Symptoms in children may include excessive daydreaming, tendency to be easily distracted, very squirmy or fidgety, and has trouble listening to directions. Symptoms in teens may include having a tendency to lose personal belongings, sitting in a single spot for a prolonged time frame, organizing thoughts, disruptive, and has difficulty being quiet (talks excessively).
Symptoms in an adult may include being short-tempered (very moody), excessive procrastination, depression, relationship issues, and displaying signs of high anxiety. Of course, there are many other telling signs of the disorders but the symptoms listed above are true warning signs which are recommended for further evaluation by a licensed physician. The medical physician will analyze the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination to determine the proper diagnosis or provide referrals to an appropriate specialist.
Once diagnosed, appropriate treatments are available depending on the severity of the disorders. Typically, treatments come in the form of stimulants which controls the disorders. Some commonly known stimulants includes Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, and Metadate, which can cause side effects such as fatigue or worrisome.
There are other forms of treatment such as psychosocial therapies (special education, counseling, social skills training, etc..). In all, with proper education, detection, and treatment, one can become a productive citizen and attain results.