Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder A Challenge Throughout The Life Span
				What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? ADHD is considered by many to be a neurochemical disorder, usually present from birth (even if the behaviors are not seen for several years). The primary characteristics are impulsivity, inattentiveness, and distractibility with or without hyperactivity. When there is no hyperactivity it is commonly referred to as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, a difficult family environment, poor teaching, or inadequate nutrition. Recognizing ADHD The most obvious characteristic of ADHD is hyperactivity. A majority of children and adults with this disorder exhibit most of the following behaviors: Fidgeting, having difficulty remaining seated, running or climbing excessively (in teens and adults, may be a chronic feeling of restlessness), rarely doing things quietly, talking excessively, blurting out responses, and interrupting or intruding on others. The other main problem associated with ADHD is inattentiveness. It is characterized by having many of the following behaviors: Problems with attending to detail, making careless mistakes, difficulty sustaining attention, poor listening skills, easily distracted, being disorganized, often losing things, being forgetful and daydreaming. ADHD vs ADD Sometimes these terms are used interchangeably but they should really be kept separate. Persons with hyperactivity nearly always have difficulty with attention. But someone who has ADD is not hyperactive. In fact, in very bright children, the absence of hyperactivity may result in the problem not being identified until middle school or even later. Aren't many of these behaviors common, especially in children? Yes, many children exhibit these behaviors some of the time or may even exhibit a few of these behaviors regularly. This is also true of adults. But it is the persistence and pervasiveness of these behaviors that distinguish ADHD from these "normal" behaviors. In fact, the term "Disorder" is used only when the problems are severe enough to cause significant impairment in at least two of the following areas: school, work, home, or social life. A Few Other Facts: A very interesting activity can keep some individuals with ADHD focused for a long period of time. Males have a greater frequency of hyperactivity, but the difference is not as great as once thought. Inattention appears to be more evenly distributed between males and females. ADHD is primarily genetic and it is quite common to discover that a parent or other relative has the disorder. Approximately two-thirds of the children with ADHD will continue to have symptoms throughout their life span. ADHD is a worldwide disorder. It is not part of the "American Personality."  How is ADHD Diagnosed? There is no single test for ADHD. Diagnosis is based on a very detailed history and current observations by self and others in different settings. Standardized behavioral checklists and computerized tests are frequently used to assist in the diagnosis. Intelligence and achievement tests may be needed if learning disabilities are suspected (15-25% will have both ADHD and LD). A physical exam is needed to eliminate other causes of ADHD symptoms such as hearing loss, thyroid problems, and seizures. ADHD must be differentiated from symptoms caused by anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. In young children, it is important to differentiate ADHD from age-appropriate impulsiveness, curiosity, and short attention. Talk to Someone Who Can Help. Return to Top
	TREATMENT FOR ADHD Education: Understanding ADHD is critical for all involved. Fortunately there are now many resources available in the form of books, tapes, videos, and national and local support groups. Medication: Stimulants such as Ritalin are helpful about 80% of the time; anti-depressants, especially for adults, can also be effective. But medication alone is not sufficient to solve the challenges of ADHD. There are specific things that parents and teachers can do to help children with attention disorders, such as breaking tasks down into small steps, giving them more time to complete assignments, and providing tangible rewards. A psychologist can help you determine which strategies would be best for your child. For adults, work-based strategies to improve job performance may involve creating lists, allowing time to take a brief walk, or placement in a job with more hands-on tasks. A psychologist can help develop strategies at work and in relationships, where inattentiveness presents special challenges. Psychotherapy for children, adults, and couples is very helpful because people with ADHD often have additional psychological and behavioral problems. The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requires schools and employers to make reasonable accommodations to help children succeed in school and adults succeed in the workplace. The Special Role of Psychologists Psychologists offer a unique blend of services: Individual, couples, and family counseling; development of home-based interventions; consultation with schools and employers; and collaboration with primary care physicians. The comprehensive training of psychologists which combines research and clinical skills has contributed to their leadership in developing theories and treatments for ADHD.
	Talk to Someone Who Can Help... Talk To A Psychologist   Prepared By: Kalman M. Heller, Ph.D. and Robert J. Resnick, Ph.D.
	The Brochure Project  A Joint Venture of the Divisions of Psychotherapy and Independent Practice American Psychological Association Co-Directors: Alice Rubenstein, Ed.D. and Sandra Haber, Ph.D. Publication Coordinators: Abraham Wolf, Ph.D. and Peter Sheras, Ph.D. © The Brochure Project, 1998 (602) 854-8950
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