We hear this term used in all kinds of contexts – “our ADD world”, “my dog is totally ADD”, etc. But ADD — and the preferred, new ‘umbrella’ term, ADHD (see also ADD vs ADHD) — is a real disorder affecting hundreds of millions of people around the world, including around nine million adults in the U.S. alone.
But, what is ADD? It is a neurobiological condition, meaning that it involves brain function with biological implications. It affects between five and eight percent of school age children, according to various sources. And symptoms carry into adulthood in an estimated 60% of sufferers.
The symptoms (see also, ADD and ADHD Symptoms), in the broadest terms, are inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. The result of these symptoms on an individual range from problems in school, slow career advancement, rocky relationships, and more – not to mention a range of common co-morbidities such as depression, substance abuse and anxiety.
Adult ADD symptoms can vary from those of children and are not always as readily diagnosed. It is not uncommon for adults to go for years without being properly diagnosed and sometimes, it is only when their symptoms become so severe that they interfere with their daily lives that a diagnosis is even sought and given. For instance…
Procrastination, or delaying important tasks and events is something that almost everyone experiences from time to time. For sufferers, however, chronic procrastination can be debilitating, and in cases where paying bills, meeting financial obligations, and completing work on the job on time are put off and/or not completed, it can be financially catastrophic. ADD treatment options for adults can usually help control this problem.
Disorganization, frequently losing or forgetting items, and losing track of time is another problem that nearly everyone faces at some point. When these behaviors become severe enough to cause missed appointments, inability to complete work-related tasks, and other problems, however, adult ADD should not be ruled out.
While several other symptoms can lead to a diagnosis as well, these are two of the most common.
Bottom Line: Don’t believe the myth that ADD/ADHD is a myth. Take it seriously and, if you think you may be a sufferer, read more from these resources, take an Adult ADD Test and then get to a medical pro for a definitive diagnosis.
