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ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and

ADHD (Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADD and ADHD are neurological problems which cause the brain to become unbalanced (over or under stimulated), dramatically affecting quality of life.

The disorder may affect such issues as ability to form positive relationships (with teachers, employers, peers, siblings, parents, spouse, etc.), difficulty in performing or completing tasks at school, home or work, and usually include self-esteem issues.  Left untreated, ADD/ADHD may evolve into more severe personality disorders (such as oppositional personality disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorders).  Complications may also include other clusters of problems such as learning disabilities, TIC's, gross and fine motor/coordination control delays and development delays (such as speech).

Symptoms are more commonly recognized in boys, however, there are increasing numbers of girls diagnosed with ADD (without hyperactivity).  ADD/ADHD is not age discriminate, affecting both children and adults.

Observable behaviors may include:  Short attention spans, distractibility, impulsive behaviors, 'laziness', boredom, quick tempers, poor decision making, disorganization, forgetfulness, and with ADHD, hyperactivity, restless or nervous energy.  Those suffering may also have more physical 'accidents' as well as traffic violations due to their distractibility.

ADD/ADHD may be successfully treated with medications prescribed and monitored by your physician.  There have also been reports by some of individuals whose symptoms decreased by avoiding certain foods.  Reports vary greatly, but there are estimates that between 20%-50% of ADD/ADHD children outgrow the condition by puberty.  However, if untreated, or if family support/counseling/education is not obtained, the long-term behavior problems will continue to interfere with quality of life.  Family and individual counseling, behavior management education, environmental adjustments at school/work/home, social skill development, and support systems for both parents and children are recommended.

Select a psychotherapist who has worked with this populations.  If your child has ADD/ADHD, select a therapist with knowledge about school/educational systems and laws regarding rights of special needs children in the educational process.

Recommendations include possible medication, counseling, parent education, education of child with behavior modeling, self-verbalization, self-control and self-reinforcement techniques, and special education services at school or home (even if the child remains in the regular classroom setting).