ADD - the Focus Need Not Be on Focusing

ADD, Attention Deficit Disorder, is a neurological condition that has an affect on behavior and learning. It shows up in approximately ten percent of our population. This percentage will actually vary depending on which research you are reading but for an average, I am using ten percent. It normally will present itself during early childhood and last well into early adulthood. For about fifty percent of these folks, the ADD symptoms will actually disappear as they mature. For those that continue to live with ADD symptoms into adulthood, the condition may be more tolerable but can and will still be a difficult challenge during every day activities.

The ADD symptoms themselves vary extensively depending on the individual. Some of these symptoms may include a difficulty sleeping, a very low level of frustration, moodiness, hyperactive behaviors, inability to attend to tasks, extreme impulsive behaviors, disorganization, or constant procrastination. As you probably have already notice, one symptom may bring on or exasperate another. Some people may only experience one or two while others may experience most symptoms continually. Again, ADD is very individualized and effects people very differently.

For the student, all the symptoms of ADD do have an effect on daily academic performance regardless of age or level of functioning. One may experience difficulties staying organized and finding completed assignments. As a result, even though the task was completed, it cannot be located to hand in resulting in problems. Another challenge for the student in the classroom and at home may be the inability to get started on a given task while using time wisely. The idea of staying focused on a given responsibility and then changing from one task to another with a smooth transition can be daunting.

ADD is a condition that may or may not involve a degree of hyperactivity. The added component of hyperactivity, referred to as ADHD, is not always apparent but certainly does not lessen the severity of ADD. Attention Deficit Disorder frequently will show itself in tandem with learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, or compulsive addictive behaviors. Many times an individual with ADD, not ADHD, may go without assistance for a much longer period of time simply because the condition may not be recognized sooner due to the lack of acting out behaviors. Hyperactive behaviors tend to get the attention of peers, teachers, and parents involved thus resulting in the necessary recognition perhaps sooner.

Living with ADD or living with someone who has ADD can be a very challenging issue for everyone involved but it doesn't always have to be a negative. It can be a positive attribute if approached correctly by parents, teachers, and anyone else involved. Many of the characteristics exhibited by the ADD student can be channeled towards more appropriate activities to facilitate success. This skill in itself can be a challenge for some educators and parents to master but it can and should be. Finding the appropriate tasks to encourage success and positive personal development is critical. A variety of ideas and suggestions that may foster positive growth should be considered wisely when addressing the student with ADD. Consideration should be given to possible medications, therapy, learning modifications within the classroom and at home directed by professionals, and group discussions involving individuals with ADD. Eliminate the shame and frustration frequently associated with ADD. It really isn't all about a lack of focus. Help change the mentality and approach from punitively negative to successfully positive. A positive approach resulting in positive results will definitely be far more productive and helpful for the ADD student.