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ADD/ADHD

There are three primary types of ADD / ADHD.

  • Inattentive – This is what is typical term used to describe someone with ADD. The individual shows symptoms of inattention and distractibility but lacks hyperactive and impulsivity.
  • Hyperactive-Impulsive – This individual has symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity but not inattention.
  • Combined – This individual has symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
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Signs and symptoms include:

  • Difficulty focusing or concentrating
  • Restlessness
  • Impulsivity
  • Difficulty completing tasks
  • Disorganization
  • Easily frustrated
  • Mood swings
  • Short temper
  • Difficulty coping with stress
  • Difficulty with relationships

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The diagnosis is made using criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association. An individual must have six or more signs and symptoms from one or both of the two categories below.

Inattention

  • Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in work or activities
  • Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks
  • Often doesn’t seem to listen when spoken to directly
  • Often doesn’t follow through on instructions and fails to finish tasks
  • Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • Often avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
  • Often loses items necessary for tasks or activities
  • Is often easily distracted
  • Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity and impulsivity

  • Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
  • Often leaves the room when remaining seated is expected
  • Often is physically active or restless in situations when it’s inappropriate
  • Often has difficulty quietly engaging in leisure activities
  • Is often “on the go” or often acts as if “driven by a motor”
  • Often talks too much
  • Often blurts out answers before questions are completed
  • Often has difficulty awaiting turn
  • Often interrupts or intrudes on others’ conversations

Medications

Stimulants (psychostimulants) are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADD / ADHD, but other drugs may be prescribed by your provider.

  • Stimulants help to balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. The most commonly prescribed stimulants include: Adderall and Adderall XR (dextroamphetamine-amphetamine), Concerta, Metadate, Ritalin (methylphenidate), and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine).
  • Non-stimulant medications used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine (Strattera) and antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications can take several weeks to work, but may be good options if you can’t take stimulants because of health problems.

Situational Modification

Your provider will help you in developing strategies to better manage your condition.

  • Improve your time management and organizational skills
  • Learn how to reduce your impulsive behavior
  • Develop better problem-solving skills
  • Cope with past academic and social failures
  • Improve your self-esteem