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Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have been simultaneously classified as neurological, developmental, or behavioral disorders. Whichever of these titles you prefer, it affects approximately 3-5% of children.

Symptoms usually start before age four, and more boys than girls are affected. ADD and ADHD appear to have a hereditary connection, but this is not always the case.

The primary difference in ADHD as compared with ADD is hyperactivity. A child or adult with ADHD will constantly fidget, tap their fingers, move their legs or bodies, etc. They seem 'super-charged' and just can't sit still.

Besides that, the other symptoms are basically the same as with ADD. Those symptoms, which can be either mild or severe, include an inability to stay focused and accomplish tasks, especially when they find it uninteresting; impulsive behavior such as suddenly jumping up out of their chairs and perhaps attempting to leave the room; defiance and aggressiveness toward authority figures as well as peers, such as picking fights for no reason; tardiness; forgetfulness; procrastination; disorganization; and low self-esteem.

While easily distracted, an ADD/ADHD child may also fixate on things he or she finds interesting or pleasurable. They are often stimulated by new things, as long as it holds their interest and attention. Bright colors, pictures, and other tools can be used in education that may help the child learn and focus.

TREATMENT

While there is no known cure for ADD/ADHD, there are several things that can be done to make life with the disorder easier. Some families opt for counseling, while others use various lifestyle and behavior modifications. At home, this can include such things as:

-Sticking to set routines. ADD/ADHD children get stressed and easily upset at routine changes.

-Setting firm family rules. Don't go overboard with them; keep them simple- but make sure your child understands what is expected of him/her, and the consequences if rules are broken. Make sure to enforce them.

-Keep distractions to a minimum. This will help your child to stay focused on the task at hand.

-Don't overwhelm your child with a list of things to do. Keep it one at a time.

-Don't forget praise for good behavior and downtime to just have fun! This goes for you, too!

These behavioral and lifestyle changes are also ideal for school, but unless you home-school, you likely have little control over it. Talk to your child's teacher and see that he or she understands your child's needs and does what's needed to help.

Some medications, such as stimulants, have also been used and seem to help. And recently a non-stimulant drug with the generic name atomoxetine has been approved by the FDA and helps approximately 70% of children.

While usually diagnosed in childhood, ADD/ADHD also affects between 4-6% of adults, who may have trouble in their relationships, jobs, and families. It is a life-long condition, but with proper medication, lifestyle adaptations, and understanding from others, the challenges can be overcome and those affected can lead normal lives.

Learn more about this author, Laureen Manera.
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