by Tricia Gordon

Created on: April 23, 2008   Last Updated: April 29, 2008

Being a parent is challenging enough. Being the parent of a child with Attention Deficit Disorder can be downright rough. So, when does a "little bundle of energy" cross the line from being normal to having a diagnosable disorder? How can a parent tell if his/her child has ADD, and isn't "just being a kid?"
Experts in child psychiatry and child psychology now use the term Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder With or Without Hyperactivity, or just ADHD, to encompass both ADD and ADHD. A child with this type of an attention deficit will usually exhibit some difficulties with impulsiveness, even if he/she is not hyperactive per se.

According to an article on ADHD from the Mayo Clinic's website, www.mayoclinic.com, ADHD symptoms fall into two main categories, inattention and hyperactivity-impulsiveness. Children may have ADHD if they have at least six symptoms from each category lasting at least six months, which significantly affect his/her ability to function. Symptoms must occur "across the board," meaning that a child must exhibit those symptoms in multiple situations, regardless of where the child is, or who the child is with, in order to get a diagnosis of ADHD.
Symptoms of Inattention
Frequently forgetful
In his/her own little world much of the time
Easily distracted
Trouble with organization
Often loses things
Unable to stay focused
Has difficulty "following through"
Careless mistakes, pays no attention to detail
Symptoms of Hyperactivity-impulsiveness
Difficulty playing quietly
Always "on the move"
Frequently "butts in" on others' games/conversations
Talks too much
Blurting out answers before question is asked
Difficulty taking turns
"Fidgety"
Consistently restless, inappropriately active
Difficulty remaining in seat
Children aren't the only ones that can have ADHD. Many adults have experienced symptoms since childhood, with no diagnosis or treatment. The symptoms for adult ADHD are the same as those for children, but manifest in slightly different ways. The symptoms are more subtle in adults.
Symptoms of Adult ADHD
Disorganized
Mood swings
Impulsive
Forgetful
Restless, poor concentration
Unable to "follow through"
"Flies off the handle" easily
Unable to relax
(It is important to note that many people with ADHD also have comorbid, or coexisting, disorders such as anxiety or depression. Since this article focuses on ADHD only, it will focus on treatments for ADHD alone.)
There are many treatments for children with ADHD. Therapy, such as Behavior Therapy,

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