ADHD and ADD

ADHD and ADD are frequently used interchangeably, but understanding the key difference between these two disorders is crucial. This blog post aims to offer an overview of these distinctions.

Both ADHD and ADD are childhood-onset behavioral disorders that impact various aspects of daily life and are characterized by attention deficits. Individuals with these disorders struggle with concentrating on less interesting tasks, exhibit a lack of task endurance, daydream, face organizational difficulties, experience mood swings, and may find it challenging to cope with stress. Additionally, they may display an easily excitable temperament and impulsive behavior, with these characteristics remaining stable over time.

Fundamental differences between ADHD and ADD

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Hyperactivity characterizes this type of disorder, classified as a hyperkinetic disorder in the International Classification of Mental Disorders (ICD-10) under the code F90.0. Beyond the common symptoms shared with ADD, ADHD involves poorly regulated, excessive activity. Individuals with this disorder often experience inner restlessness and a constant urge to move, and they may have difficulty sitting still for extended periods. Subtypes include predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and a combination of both. Patients with this disorder display increased proneness to impulsive actions and heightened emotional reactivity.

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder)

Contrasting with other conditions, attention deficit disorder (ADD) exhibits attention deficits without clinically relevant hyperactivity. The ICD-10 codes it as F98.8, specifically identifying it as attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity. Individuals with ADD encounter difficulties maintaining attention, easily become distracted, may undergo disorganization, and frequently indulge in daydreaming. Notably, the absence of hyperactivity in ADD may result in its less frequent recognition compared to ADHD in childhood.

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an outdated term that was once used to describe a subtype of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that primarily presents with inattention and a lack of focus, without the hyperactivity and impulsivity often associated with ADHD.

In 1994, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) combined ADD and ADHD into a single diagnosis called ADHD, with three subtypes:

• Predominantly inattentive presentation: People with this type of disorder find it hard to keep their attention glued to a task, stay on top of things, and see projects through to completion. Distractions easily lure them away, and forgetfulness can be a constant companion.
• Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation: People with this subtype have difficulty sitting still, focusing on tasks, and controlling their impulses. They may also be fidgety, talkative, and easily bored.
• Combined presentation: People with this subtype have symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Symptoms of ADHD and ADD

ADD is primarily characterized by inattention and a lack of focus, while ADHD can also include hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Diagnosis:

ADD is no longer a recognized diagnosis, while ADHD is a recognized diagnosis in the DSM-V.

Treatment:

Treatment for both disorders typically includes medication, therapy, and lifestyle. The choice of diagnosis depends on the severity of the symptoms, and both disorders can significantly impact various aspects of an individual’s life. Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, proves effective in treating individuals with both disorders, with consideration given to tailoring therapy to individual needs for optimal therapeutic progress. changes.

Understanding the distinction between both disorders is essential for clinical and diagnostic purposes. The terms ADD and ADHD are still sometimes used interchangeably, but ADHD is the more accurate and current term.