Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms are typically pervasive, often presenting in a manner that is not age-appropriate and leading to impairments in various aspects of life. Diagnosis requires the manifestation of symptoms causing significant challenges in at least two domains, such as school, home, work, or extracurricular activities.
There is a substantial genetic component to ADD, with childhood prevalence estimated between 5-7%. The disorder is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls. Additionally, a significant portion of individuals diagnosed in childhood continue to experience symptoms into adulthood, with an estimated 30-50% experiencing ongoing symptoms. Approximately 2–5% of adults are affected by the condition.
Common Symptoms: ADD Inattentive Type
- Often has difficulty maintaining focus or concentration or staying on task
- Overlook or miss details thereby making careless mistakes in school, work or other activities
- Often appears to not pay attention or to not listen when spoken to directly
- Frequently does not finish following instructions and simply dives right in
- Failing to start and complete tasks
- Often struggles to organize tasks and activities
- Trouble meeting deadlines and staying on time
- Trouble keeping belongings in order (a school back pack)
- Often reluctant to engage in tasks which require sustained mental effort
- Frequently loses items, including those required for tasks (school supplies, pencils) or a wallet/car keys for example in adults
- Is frequently easily distracted by irrelevant things (starts homework and ends up on cell phone within minutes
- Often forgets daily activities or is forgetful while completing them
- Often late to appointments
- Frequently overlooks details