Introduction

I'm creating this topic to inform you all about ADD and ADHD. This is something that a lot of people don't realize they may have until diagnosed by a psychiatrist. I never knew until I took this test from my psychiatrist and she told me she thought I had ADD and now I take medication to help me focus.

ADD - Attention Deficit Disorder
ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Frequently asked questions

What are ADD and ADHD and what is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

Both cause forgetfulness, disorganization, distractability, difficulty following rapid conversations, completing schoolwork and assignments in a timely manner, keeping track of time and/or belongings, and low self-esteem.

Differences -

Symptoms of ADD:

- Sluggish or fatigued
- Well-behaved, quiet
- Underassertive, shy and drawn back
- Corteous and respectful, sometimes too much
- Modest
- Shy and unable to attract friends, trouble with relationships

Symptoms of ADHD:



-- What's ADHD at Angelfire


Is ADHD/ADD considered a disability in a school setting?

No. It is usually not too much of a hold-back but still varies from person to person. People who suffer from ADHD are allowed free and regular classes because of a non-discrimination law. Levels of teaching rely on whatever seems appropriate for the student.

How does ADHD affect my schoolwork?

You are often forgetful. You may forget pencils, schoolwork, homework, books, forget instructions given to you 5 minutes earlier and can be impulsive. You may have trouble waiting your turn and often blurt out answers without thinking or answer before the teacher's even finished the question.

Are there colleges or scholarships available with people with ADHD?

There are very few scholarships specifically for students with ADHD. If you're medically diagnosed with ADHD, you may apply for scholarships under 'disabilities' or 'learning disabilities'. However, if the condition isn't too extreme, I'd imagine any scholarship would be available to you.

How do I control my ADHD/ADD?

- Use a timer or watch to remind yourself of what is needed to be done. Make a schedule to keep yourself on track.
- Find a friend that can help you develop better work habits.
- Don't be too passive. Find things to occupy yourself with and try not to be too easily distracted.

Where should I go for help?

Discuss your issues with a physician (therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, pediatrician, neurologist). You might need to find someone to help you along the way to keep your life in order.

Facts about ADD

- Children with ADD are often diagnosed after beginning school
- ADD is present at birth and continues through adulthood
- Heredity is a strongly suggested cause of ADD
- No medical tests to definitely show if ADD is present or not. Diagnosis includes personal evaluation and other information physician gathers.
- ADD does not affect intelligence
- ADD is a lifelong illness and not curable, but medication can help stabilize your mood

Facts about ADHD

- ADHD is a neurobiological condition
- Reports have varied but usually affects 3-9 percent of the school-aged population
- ADHD is a lifelong illness and can never be cured, but medication can help stabilize your mood
- Boys significantly outnumber girls in having ADHD.

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Not all medications are alright for you. Ask your physician about what medication might be right for you. If you have a family history of ADD or ADHD, find out information on what medications worked for them because there's a high chance it'll work for you. Sorry, this wasn't the greatest essay I've done, but I hope you've learned a thing or two.

References

Shwab Foundation
ADD at About
What's ADHD at Angelfire