ADHD / ADD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD (previously called Attention Deficit Disorder) represents a broad spectrum of complaints that have problems with focus, attention, concentration, and distractions that usually presents in childhood. When hyperactivity and impulsivity are present it is called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Mixed or Combined Type.

Suspicions of ADHD commonly develop as the result of academic frustration and failure. Parents often hear regularly from their child’s teachers that their child has been an underachiever academically working way below their potential. Or the degree of childhood mischief and behavior problems in the classroom lead to suspension or teacher intervention with parents. The child without hyperactivity or impulsivity often falls through the academic cracks due to the fact that they are nice kids that just fail to succeed in school.

It is now understood that ADHD is a medical disorder involving abnormalities in brain function that can be inherited across family generations. Persistence into adulthood is common although the hyperactivity component usually subsides, leaving the attention concentration problems little changed. When not diagnosed in childhood, adults often become suspicious of their own ADHD when it is diagnosed in their children and they recognize the same set of symptoms in themselves.

How can we treat ADHD?

Untreated, ADHD can lead to school failure, drug abuse, job and academic failure, car accidents and a general sense of lack of life accomplishment. On the other hand, treatment can be very effective. Appropriate medication use can turn around a negative life course and restore a healthy self image. Non-pharmacologic treatment is also indicated and involves what is best described as ADHD coaching. This approach involves psychotherapy that focuses on time management and organizational development. These skills can last a lifetime and can contribute to eventual discontinuation of medication.