ADD and ADHD are similar in that both are attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders, but they differ in their presentation and treatment. Adults with ADD can face a variety of issues, including self-motivation, forgetting to pay attention, and losing things regularly. Stimulant medications can be used for patients with ADD, but there are also non-stimulant medications available. There is a debate about the safety of stimulant medication, especially with long-term effects, and there are many side effects. However, the drugs are considered safe when prescribed under medical supervision.
Children with ADD and ADHD may be diagnosed with a variety of different symptoms. These include speaking out of turn, daydreaming, and failing to complete tasks. The arousal-attention model of ADHD suggests that these symptoms emerge from arousal and processing speed deficits. These symptoms can be disruptive to relationships, school, and work life, and they can cause social problems. Behavioral therapy for children involves using incentives and consequences to teach the child what to do and what not to do. This type of therapy can help the child learn what to do and avoid impulsive behavior.
ADHD is a disorder that affects 1 in 20 children. It is characterized by inappropriate levels of inattention and hyperactivity, which can affect learning, activity, and relationships. The disorder is most common in boys. A diagnosis typically occurs in the adolescent years. A doctor will evaluate the child to determine the right diagnosis. They will also consider other disorders, including anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
In addition, there are two main types of ADHD: hyperactive/impulsive and predominantly inattentive. Generally, the inattentive type of ADHD is diagnosed later in a child’s life. Inattentive ADHD can lead to difficulties in school, including difficulty concentrating and staying focused. The impulsive type of ADHD is disruptive at home and daycare.
Historically, ADHD has affected 3-7% of children. This number has increased over the past decade. In particular, diagnoses among high school students have increased. The increased prevalence of ADHD has made it a major focus of research. This study examined the prevalence of ADHD in a community-recruited sample of 572 children and adolescents. Compared to a control group, these participants had a higher prevalence of high surgency, which means they were more impulsive and had a tendency to exhibit aggressive behaviors. The high surgency group exhibited the worst working memory and response inhibition. Over time, these symptoms deteriorated, putting the children at risk for comorbid psychopathology.
The combined type of ADHD is the most problematic type of the disorder in childhood. This type of ADHD is characterized by all three of the core symptoms of the disorder, which is the inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive. This type of ADHD is generally viewed as being more difficult to treat, and has been associated with higher rates of substance abuse. The most common types of medication for ADHD are stimulants. These drugs can help patients feel more energized, but they can also cause addiction and psychosis. There are non-stimulant medications, such as guanfacine, that can be used for those who react badly to stimulants.
