subject: The Differences of ADD Vs ADHD [print this page] The Differences of ADD Vs ADHD The Differences of ADD Vs ADHD
While many of the behaviors presented with ADHD are seen in ADD, they are not identical. The hyperactivity that is a classic symptom of ADHD is missing in ADD, and that means that you can consider different treatment options. Understanding ADD vs ADHD is important if you want to see the best possible results during treatment.
In children, the symptoms of ADHD are different than in adults. These are the symptoms you would likely see in a child:
Symptoms of Hyperactivity
Constantly getting up from their seat and walking around.
Climbing, running and moving when such behaviors are inappropriate
Fidgeting and squirming when required to be seated
Constantly talking and an inability to play quietly
Always "on the go" as if driven
Signs of Inattention
Short or inadequate attention span
Careless mistakes on material already known
Can't seem to stay focused
Difficulty remembering directions and routine functions
Challenges staying organized
Steady stream of lost or misplaced items, even important ones
With some children, you will see either one group or the other of behaviors when determining ADD vs ADHD. If you see both sets of behaviors, you are most likely looking at ADHD. If you don't see signs of hyperactivity, it is probably ADD.
Additional Symptoms
Impulsivity is another one of the biggest challenges such children face. With no internal ability to control their behaviors, they often display little understanding or the skills to follow social norms. These behaviors include:
Blurting out answers
Can't stay in line properly
Frequent interruptions in other's conversations
Outburst of temper
The more pronounced the symptoms the easier it is to make a determination of ADD vs ADHD.
Many Treatment Options Remain the Same
First let's make it clear that ADD or ADHD have nothing to do with your parenting skills. There is a strong genetic component at play, and between 3-5% of children, globally, are diagnosed with one or the other. Symptoms will continue into adulthood, and if you start looking more deeply into the condition, you may very well find that you or your spouse is dealing with the same behaviors.
Treating ADD vs ADHD may require slight differences. Controlling the hyperactivity and impulse issues may be most appropriate for ADHD whereas improved focus by take priority with ADD, and drugs don't always have to be the answer.
Homeopathic remedies have shown a degree of success, as have brain training, dietary changes, and behavioral approaches. The best results are usually the outcome of multipronged plans; changing the diet, retraining the brain, increasing appropriate venues for increased activity, and so forth.
No matter which treatment options you consider, remember this isn't a competition of which classification is better or more manageable. You and your health care provider want to find the options that work for your child and your family.
The Positives Side
Hard though it may be to believe, there are some good things to consider. Children with ADD or ADHD tend to be more creative, more spontaneous, and flexible in their expectations. They have plenty of energy and drive and once directed, can achieve incredible things. For great ways to harness this energy, check out some of the comprehensive websites out there to tell you more about ADD vs ADHD and to help everyone involved in this disorder succeed.
