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There are two forms of attention deficit disorder – the one that involves hyperactivity (ADHD) and the one without hyperactivity (ADD). This form is often misdiagnosed. Children with this form of attention deficit disorder will appear to be withdrawn and excessively shy or anxious. Other symptoms may include poor academic achievement and a variety of learning disabilities.
The symptoms of ADD include the following:
- difficulty paying attention or staying focused on a task or activity;
- problems finishing assignments at school or home and jumping from one activity to another;
- trouble focusing on instructions and difficulty following through feeling easily distracted, even when doing something fun;
- often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in school, work, etc.;
- difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities;
- often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly;
- does not follow through with instruction or fails to complete tasks;
- has difficulty organizing tasks or activities;
- avoids, dislikes and is reluctant to engage in tasks that require substantial mental effort;
- forgetful in daily activities.
Attention deficit disorder in most instances is diagnosed during childhood, although the conditions can continue into adulthood. Some of the usual treatments will include medications as well as other non medical treatments including behavior therapy and parent education. Medications may include Methylphenidate (Ritalin); Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine); Pemoline (Cylert).
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