To be diagnosed with AD/HD, six or more of the following symptoms must have been present for at least six months:

• Fails to give close attention to detail
• Difficulty sustaining attention
• Does not seem to listen
• Does not follow through on instructions
• Difficulty organizing tasks
• Avoids tasks that require sustained mental effort
• Loses things necessary for tasks
• Easily distracted
• Forgetful

Six or more of the following symptoms must have been present for at least six months:

Hyperactivity:
 

• Fidgets or squirms
• Leaves seat in classroom
• Runs or climbs excessively
• Difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
• On the go or acts as if driven by a motor
• Talks excessively

Impulsivity:
 

• Blurts out answers
• Difficulty awaiting turn
• Interrupts or intrudes on others

Attention Deficit Disorder occurs in approximately 5% of children and is more common in boys than girls at a 3:1 ratio. Children with ADD and AD/HD commonly have other co-existing conditions. Although the disorder is common across all socio-economic classes, it is more prevalent in children who have experienced foster care or major disruptions in their lives. ADD is also thought to be hereditary.

Without help, AD/HD can lead to poor social adjustment, delinquency, dropping out of school, behavior problems, school failure, or drug abuse.

Treatment for AD/HD can include educational planning, medication management, psychological or counseling. The most common medications used in AD/HD are Ritalin, Dexedrine, Cylert, and Adderall.

 About the Author: Dr. Catherine Swanson Cain, PhD, LMFT provides counseling and therapy to families of young children with behavior problems or mental health disabilities. She also provides consultation and training to educators, child care providers, and professionals on a variety of behavioral health issues.