ADD is the less well-known type of ADHD. In ADHD, the 'H' represents hyperactivity. In ADD this is absent. Hyperactivity is not one of the symptoms of ADD. Do you want to be able to recognize ADD or do you think someone close to you might haved it? In this article we describe the ADD signs as well as possible treatments that are available. Furthermore, we will describe which other psychological mechanisms can influence ADD.
ADD signs: what are the symptoms?
ADD is also called predominant inattentiveness. This is because it has many characteristics in common with ADHD, while not characterized by hyperactivity. Many children/youngsters and even adults with ADD seem dreamy. They have a hard time focusing on things, therefore often seeming absent-minded. They have a hard time concentrating, which often stands out most in a classroom environment. Even homework is difficult for these children/youngsters. Adults, instead, have a hard time with their work. The problems with concentration are caused by a dopamine deficit, dopamine being a chemical secreted in the brain. Furthermore, these people have a hard time keeping to a routine. This often means that they have a hard time with keeping their circadian rhythm. People with ADD will often watch television at night or stay in bed in the morning instead of getting up. They find it difficult to keep their impulses in check, so they do what they want to do in the moment in which they want to do it. Furthermore, it is hard for them to deal with their emotions, which is another reason why they could have a hard time sticking to a healthy circadian rhythm. If they do not know how to deal with their emotions, they might worry about them. More women are diagnosed with ADD than men.
ADD signs: other influences on the symptoms?
Stress can worsen the symptoms of ADD. Stress can namely have a negative effect on focusing. In ADD, focusing already is difficult, so people with ADD and stress will have an extremely hard time staying concentrated. Stress also makes it so that we find it hard to fall asleep, which will disrupt the circadian rhythm even more. Furthermore, while people with ADD are able to adapt themselves to circumstances to some extent, this will become more difficult with stress. Stress namely makes it hard to make decisions or think clearly, which has a detrimental effect on impulse control.
ADD signs: treatment?
15Minutes4Me.com developed an online self-help program against stress, which you can use to work on your stress. If you have ADD, it is useful to work on eventual stress, as this is what worsens your symptoms. If you take care of your stress, you might find that your signs of ADD lessen, or that you can handle the ADD signs in a better way.
ADD signs: do the stress test!
Would you like to know to what extent your stress could affect your ADD signs? Then do the free online stress test, which shows your level of stress. After filling out the test, you will receive your personal scores right away!
