ADD/ADHD Patient Information
Is it ADD or ADHD?
Patients often wonder whether they have ADD or ADHD. Actually, ADD is considered to be 1 of 3 different “subtypes” of ADHD, or Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Many people still use the term ADD, but doctors usually use a more formal and specific name for this subtype: ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type.
The three subtypes are:
ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type (mentioned above)
ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
ADHD, Combined Type (where both hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms are present)
How do I know if I have ADD/ADHD?
There are many different symptoms of ADD/ADHD, which can be unique to each patient. Sometimes, these symptoms can even be mistaken for “bad behavior.” For example, some common symptoms include not completing important tasks, or beginning meaningless tasks instead of finishing important ones. Depending on the Type of ADHD, some patients may also appear to be hyperactive, irritable, or bashful/shy.
While it may seem to others that a person with ADD/ADHD either hasn’t paid attention or has deliberately chosen not to follow instructions, the reality may be that the person listens very intently, but their ADD/ADHD symptoms are getting in the way of performing to their full potential. Because a lot of the behaviors described here can seem “normal” in a busy day for many people, a quick behavior assessment is the best place to start. An ADD/ADHD assessment can help determine whether you're affected by this condition. You can take the assessment here by going to the forms page and clicking on the ADD/ADHD Assessment.
With proper assessment, treatment, and support, many people are successfully able to control their ADD/ADHD symptoms and perform to their full potential.