ADD & ADHD~What are they...REALLY?!

Ever since I was first diognosed with Adult ADD, I have been answering the perverbal question: "What EXACTLY is ADD?" I find it funny that a lot of people still think that ADD and ADHD are the same thing. ADD or Adult Deficit Disorder is not the same as ADHD; which is Adult Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

ADHD is usually what children are diagnosed with. Please understand that this doesn't just "go away" as the child becomes an adult. What usually happens is that the ADHD child becomes an adult and the diagnosis now becomes ADD (which is what happened to me...only I didn't know I had it.)

There are, however, commonalities (my 50 cent word for the day) and there are differences. First let's talk about what is common. Both cause the person with it to struggle with life (this is not an excuse, but a fact.) ADD and ADHD cause forgetfulness, disorganization and distractibility (example: right now I am keenly aware of the fact that my son is watching a Disney Movie and my wife is talking on the phone. And I am in a room where I can see neither! I have learned to make this trait positive and with my meds I can!) People with both disorders have a low self esteem. Although both allow people to be creative and outgoing!

Here is the killer common factors for me....ready? ADD and ADHD sufferers have difficulity following rapid conversations and trouble completing school assignments and homework in a timely manner.

This explains why I NEVER did well at math. I especially was lost in Algebra and to this day avoid math. Math, to me, was a rapid fire of numbers, formulas and figures that I could never grasp.

So now let's pinpoint the characteristics of ADD and ADHD. First up, Adult Deficit Disorder. Characteristics: Sluggish, obedient, overly polite, docile, shy, socially withdrawn.

You might be saying to yourself, "Wow. This doesn't sound anything like me." You're not the Lone Ranger...it doesn't sound like me either! For some this might be right on the money. If it is...great!

ADHD Characteristics: Impulsive, intrusive, rebellious, bossy, show off/egotistical.

Ok, now this sounds more like me! Not that I am glad that I have those characteristics mind you. So, from what I learned, I have some ADD characteristics and I have some ADHD characteristics. How did you do? Why is it that some of us have characteristics of BOTH disorders? I am not sure.

Until I find out why this is, you are free to consult a doctor who treats ADD/ADHD. If you find something out and want to share it, please feel free to email me and, again, I will post your email AND give you the credit.

This is a group effort folks! We are sharing information and learning together. I am looking into ADD coaching and emailed a woman in my area. I have yet to hear back from her. This doesn't suprise me as I have learned that most who coach for ADD have it. I think I will email her again and see if she replies (as it could just be the internet hyperspace thief stealing me emails again!)

Stay tuned....next time let's get positive and talk about the POSITIVE characteristics of ADD!!!

Blessings,

D

For more information on this blog, go to: www.about.com (addthebasics) by Eileen Bailey.