ADD / ADHD
What’s ADD Disorder? ADD Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Attention-deficit disorder or ADD disorder is a developmental impairment of the brain’s self-management systems. It affects people of all ages and makes it difficult to stay focused, alert, and present in many day-to-day situations. It is a very common condition in today’s hectic society that is rife with constant distractions including ads, social media, and a variety of handheld devices.
What is Attention-Deficit Disorder?
Attention deficit disorder is traditionally categorized as a behavior disorder that could be remedied with mild therapy or medication. Recent neurological studies over the last decade have shed new light on these conditions and given physicians a new perspective on how to approach them.
ADD and ADHD are developmental brain impairments that harm the self-management system of the brain. In other words, these conditions make it difficult to maintain control of your executive functions and maintain focus. It is a myth that ADD and ADHD are simply results of “bad behavior” and require discipline, as research has painted a very different picture. ADHD can affect individuals of any IQ level and is not a condition that you can simply outgrow. It is a deep-seated neurological deficit that requires careful treatment and serious consideration.
The Difference Between ADD and ADHD
ADD has become a dated term due to the recent advancements in our understanding of the condition. It can sometimes be used to define less severe forms of ADHD and inattentive tendencies, but for the most part, ADHD is the diagnosis given upon findings of severe lack of focus, forgetfulness, and difficulty maintaining attention on any one thing for more than a few moments.
ADD Symptoms
- Poor working memory
- Inattention
- Distractibility
- Poor executive function