Some people use ADD and ADHD interchangeably because they think that both terms refer to the same condition, while others use them separately, presuming that each term has nothing to do with the other. Unfortunately, using these terms interchangeable or incorrectly may risk not only misdiagnosing an individual but mistreating them most effectively, too.

ADD

Attention Deficit Disorder, commonly known as ADD, has fallen out of usage since the American Psychiatric Association revised the third Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1987, officially renaming the condition Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD.

Although the terminology has changed over the years—it was actually referred to as hyperkinetic reaction of childhood until 1980—that does not mean the term or the symptoms associated with ADD are obsolete. The term ADD is still widely used and while it may not serve as an offical diagnosis, it is often used to describe those who suffer from a specific form of this condition: Inattentive ADHD (see below).

ADHD

ADHD refers to a disorder that most often involves having difficulty concentrating due to a poor attention span as a chief symptom. This condition can be quite challenging depending on the severity of all symptoms and the type of ADHD.

Symptoms associated with ADHD include:

• Being prone to procrastination

• Feeling restless

• Exhibiting impulsive behavior

• Having mood swings

Learn more about common ADHD symptoms.

Not every person with ADHD—whether a child or an adult—presents with all of these symptoms. Some may display only a select few, depending on their type of ADHD.

Here’s a brief breakdown of three types of ADHD, as recognized by the American Psychiatric Association:

1. Inattentive: A person who has been diagnosed with this form of ADHD generally has trouble focusing, and as a result, often does not pay attention to detail, makes silly mistakes (i.e., on a test), and has a tendency to start a task—after procrastinating for a while—and does not finish it.

2. Hyperactive-Impulsive: People who suffer from this type of ADHD are usually full of energy and struggle to focus due to their inability to sit still and be quiet.

3. Combined: Someone who exhibits symptoms of inattentive ADHD and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD most likely suffers from combined ADHD.

If you notice that you or someone you know exhibits several of the symptoms discussed, seeking expert advice of a medical professional or your trusted health care practitioner can help you achieve a proper diagnosis and begin the treatment that will be most effective for your specific condition.

Do you want to learn more about ADHD and how to treat your symptoms naturally? Here are key factors to look for in a holistic ADHD clinic.