Clinical
Attention Deficit Disorder

What is Attention Deficit Disorder?

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a disorder that includes persistent and severe problems with inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity (e.g., fidgetiness, excessive running, talking to much). Symptoms of ADD and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are typically accentuated in group or school settings where children are required to attend, sit still, and complete tasks that require concentration. While ADD and ADHD are commonly diagnosed during elementary school years and improve by late adolescence, some adults suffer from the disorders.

What is the treatment for ADD and ADHD?

Again, treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin, are used to help children concentrate, focus, and attend to social, peer, and school demands. Individual and group psychotherapies also assist children with developing behavioral strategies for change. In addition, family education/therapy and school consultation can help others support behavioral strategies so that children can function better at home and school.