ADD/ADHD

What is 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.

What are the signs and symptoms of Adult ADD / ADHD?

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

How is it ADD / ADHD diagnosed?

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

How is ADD / ADHD treated?

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