ADHD

Differences between ADD and ADHD

ADD

Meaning : Attention Deficit Disorder

Definition : medical : a condition in which someone has problems with learning and behavior because of being unable to think about or pay attention to things for very long.

ADHD

Meaning : Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Definition : a problem of not being able to focus, being overactive, not being able control behavior, or a combination of these.

Symptoms of ADD/ADHD may be :

Inattentive Symptoms

• Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork
• Has difficulty keeping attention during tasks or play
• Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork or chores and tasks
• Has problems organizing tasks and activities
• Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort ( such as schoolwork )
• Often loses toys, assignments, pencils, books, or tools needed for tasks or activities
• Is easily distracted
• Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactive/Impulsive Symptoms

• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
• Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected
• Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations
• Has problems playing or working quietly
• Is often "on the go," acts as if "driven by a motor"
• Talks excessively
• Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
• Has difficulty awaiting turn
• Interrupts or intrudes on others ( butts into conversations or games )

To avoid diagnosing individuals who show only isolated difficulties, at least 6 inattentive symptoms and/or 6 hyperactive/impulsive symptoms must be present to possibly qualify for an ADHD/ADD diagnosis. In addition, these symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months to a degree that is considered inappropriate for the individual's age.

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Sources : https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001551.htm
http://www.helpforadd.com/criteria-for-add/

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Note : While reading the symptoms, it looks like us – people with AD(H)D – have difficulties at school, but not everyone who has it, does ! Personally, I don't have any problems at school, I have good grades, and yeah, I have ADHD.