The Benefits of ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the label currently used to describe what was once known only as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). ADHD is a neurobehavioral syndrome that affects millions of American children and commonly lasts throughout adulthood. Though ADHD is frequently diagnosed during adolescence, adults can also be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms later in life.

The root cause of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is believed to be part genetic and part environmental although the exact cause is not yet completely known. Research does support the theory that there is a genetically linked chemical imbalance in the brain of some people with ADHD. A large percentage of children born to mothers who smoked cigarettes, drank alcohol or had complicated pregnancies tend to also exhibit ADHD symptoms.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has three different classifications:

• Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
• Predominately Inattentive Type
• Combined Type

• Inability to sit quietly
• Inability to concentrate for extended periods of time
• Lack of control over impulsive behaviors

Children and others with ADHD will often make thoughtless blunders in class work or homework. People with ADHD will also often have difficulties listening to and following directions. They sometimes are prone to leaving tasks uncompleted, are often disorganized, easily distracted and can be very forgetful. At the same time, their hyperactivity syndrome involves fidgeting, constant chattering, an inability to remain seated at appropriate times and a severe difficulty waiting for their turn when interacting with others. Such disruptive behaviors often call for special attention for school-aged students and can be distracting to other children in a classroom setting.

As children grow into adulthood, the symptoms of ADHD do not disappear and they often become worse if not properly managed. An adult who hasn't managed to control ADHD symptoms may experience extreme difficulties focusing in college or on a job. These difficulties can lead to poor achievement, ridicule, and low self-esteem. Adults with unmanaged ADHD symptoms are sometimes prone to be quick-tempered, verbally insulting and become easily agitated with peers and co-workers. These unmanaged behaviors also can have a negative impact on their family and social interactions.

Though Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is considered a disability of sorts, ADHD also has many benefits that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. ADHD benefits are as follows: