According to the DSM IV, Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity is defined as a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity- impulsity that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in individuals at a comparable level of development. Some of there symptoms of inattentiveness and hyperactivity must have been present before age seven, however most people are not diagnosed until years later although the symptoms have been present. In order to be correctly diagnosed with ADD there must be impairment in at least two areas of life, at home and school or work. There should be clear evidence of interference with developmentally appropriate social, academic, or occupational functioning.

The symptoms related to this disorder include failure to give close attention to detail, making careless mistakes in schoolwork or other tasks. Their work is usually messy and thrown together with very little thought. These individuals find it difficult to sustain attention in tasks or play activities and find it hard to stick to a task until completion. They often do not follow through on requests or instructions. It'll appear as if their mind is somewhere else entirely or as if they

Hyperactivity may vary depending on age. Although most toddlers and preschoolers are very active, children with this disorder differ from normal active kids. They are constantly on the go and they get into everything. They run and jump on furniture and can't sit to listen to a story being read. School-age children have similar symptoms but they aren't as frequent or severe as that of the toddlers. They often fidget with objects, shake their feet tap on things just to keep moving. They will also talk excessively and make a lot of noise during quiet activities. In adults these symptoms of hyperactivity turn into feelings of restlessness.

Medications such as stimulants are most commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Disorder. These medications are thought to improve the chemical imbalance in the brain that causes the symptoms. They stimulate the production of two neurotransmitters known as dopamine and norephinephrine. Medications that treat ADD are not tranquilizers or sedatives. They do not slow down the nervous system. They actually stimulate areas of the brain to be more active so that the attention and concentration functions and self-control functions work better. Most people are treated with a medication called Ritalin. This drug appears to be very effective to those who use it despite its bad press. When Ritalin doesn't work there are other drugs that can be used. Other amphetamines, or anti-depressants and beta blocks have also been proven effective. Medication is the most commonly used treatment; it is however, used in combination with psychological behavior modification and patient/ family education. Traditional child psychotherapy, such as play therapy or non-directive talking therapy, has not been proven effective in the treatment of ADD. Providing individual therapy to one or both parents also does not work. Research demonstrates that modern psychological treatment methods, especially behavior modification, cognitive behavioral therapy and relaxation can have a positive effect. One of these in combination with medication is very effective. Counseling alone is to provide edu

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