ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a disorder that affects the way a person’s brain works. It can lead to issues with attention, hyperactivity and impulse control. ADD (which stands for Attention-Deficit Disorder) used to be an older term for the same condition. The term was changed to ADHD in 1987, which is now the correct and more commonly used designation.
Key symptoms of ADHD are inattention, easy distractibility, and an inability to sit still. People with ADHD may also be impulsive — they have difficulty controlling their actions or what comes out of their mouths. These symptoms can make it difficult for someone with ADHD to succeed in school or work, get along with others, or complete everyday tasks.
ADHD and ADD are essentially the same thing, but there are some distinctions between the two. ADHD is categorized into three types: predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type and combined type. When they have difficulty paying attention and focusing, but may not be hyperactive, that is inattentive type ADHD. In the hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD, an individual is overly active and finds it difficult to control their impulses. ADHD combined type means that both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive criteria are met.
Previously ADD was used to label the inattentive type of ADHD. However, ADHD is now the term used to describe all three forms of the condition. That’s because studies have found that the different forms of ADHD are all part of one condition beneath the surface, even if the symptoms appear to be separate.
Please remember that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a valid medical diagnosis, and can be diagnosed by a doctor/psychologist and even PMHPs. ADHD is not something that we just made up as a problem or an excuse for bad behavior. It’s a neurological disorder that can reduce the ability to focus, control impulses and moderating one’s own energy.
If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, assistance is available. Arbor Wellness offers help and hope for people with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We provide services such as evaluations, treatment plans and ongoing help for individuals working to care for their symptoms and overall health. Our team is committed to giving caring, quality treatment individualized to each person. Treatments can include medications (stimulant medications, such as Adderall or Ritalin, are commonly used to treat ADHD as they can help to improve focus and concentration), psychotherapy and lifestyle changes including enough sleep, exercise and healthful nutrition. With the proper treatment, people with ADHD can manage their symptoms and can do well in school, the work place and relationships.
In conclusion, ADHD is not separate from ADD; they are different names for the same condition. ADHD is now the more accurate and widely accepted term; it’s a condition defined by a pattern of symptoms, such as inattention, impulsivity or difficulty moderating energy levels. With the support of friends, family, and professionals, individuals with ADHD can successfully learn to manage and control their symptoms.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/add-vs-adhd
https://www.verywellmind.com/add-and-attention-deficit-disorders-2161810
https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/adhd-impulsivity#1
https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/signs-symptoms/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder_predominantly_inattentive#
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-hyperactive-impulsive-type
https://add.org/adhd-combined-type/
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-adhd-combined-type-4135385
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/adhdadd
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https://childmind.org/article/what-is-the-difference-between-add-and-adhd/
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https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/learning-and-developmental-disorders/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1594724/
https://www.dmc.org/healthy-living/corporate-content/what-is-the-difference-between-add-and-adhd
