Reliable guideline for children's health
ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) are common neurodevelopmental disorders affecting children’s attention and behavior. Although they share many similarities, there are also some distinct differences.
ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder)
ADD, or “Attention Deficit Disorder,” primarily manifests as difficulty with attention but does not include noticeable hyperactivity. Children with ADD typically exhibit the following characteristics:
Children with ADD generally do not show excessive movement or impulsive behaviors; their main feature is attention problems.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD is an acronym for “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder,” which includes the attention deficit issues of ADD but also encompasses hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. Children with ADHD often display the following characteristics:
Key Differences
In modern medicine, ADHD is used as a comprehensive term that covers various types of attention deficit disorders, including the predominantly inattentive presentation (formerly known as ADD) and the predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation, as well as the combined presentation (both attention deficits and hyperactivity/impulsivity).
While both ADD and ADHD are related to attention issues, ADD is considered a subtype of ADHD that does not include hyperactivity symptoms. Today, ADHD is the more commonly used diagnostic term encompassing all types of attention deficit-related symptoms.
Treatment and Intervention for Children with ADD and ADHD
Treatment for children with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) usually requires a comprehensive approach, including medication, behavioral therapy, family education, and school support. Here are common treatment methods and interventions:
Medication
Medication is a primary intervention for both ADD and ADHD, particularly for children with more severe symptoms. Commonly used medications include:
These medications primarily work by affecting different neurotransmitters in the brain to improve attention and control impulsive behavior.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy is an important non-medication intervention, especially for younger children. Through behavioral therapy, children can learn to control their behaviors and improve social skills.
Family and School Interventions
As parents and educators, continuously monitoring and supporting the child’s needs, and actively collaborating with healthcare professionals, are key to helping children successfully manage ADD and ADHD. Each child is unique, and finding personalized interventions will lay a solid foundation for their future.
Reference:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Provides comprehensive information on ADHD, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
CDC: ADHD
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Offers guidelines on the diagnosis and management of ADHD in children, along with resources for parents.
AAP: ADHD Guidelines
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Discusses ADHD, its causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches, including medication and therapy.
NIMH: ADHD
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) - A national organization providing education, advocacy, and support for individuals with ADHD.
CHADD: About ADHD
American Psychological Association (APA) - Offers information on psychological treatments for ADHD, including behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
APA: ADHD Treatment