In October, National ADD/ADHD Awareness Month presents opportunities to eliminate the myths and share the facts about Attention deficit disorder and Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

While most children with either ADD or ADHD first present with symptoms between the ages of 3 and 7 years, many go undiagnosed. Others are misdiagnosed.

Both children and adults have ADHD. While approximately 5% of the population may have the disorder (more according to the CDC), males are more likely to be diagnosed than females.

Different sources (CDC, add.org, addrc.org) list varying causes of ADHD. Some list brain injury and exposure to environmental causes. Other sources dispute these causes. However, all agree to a genetic component.

Most with an ADD or ADHD diagnosis receive treatment with a combination of therapy and medication. Some may require medication throughout their life. However, depending on severity, others may be able to manage symptoms in adulthood without medication.

Resources are available. The CHADD.org provides guides and access to information.

My family has experienced this first hand.  My father was undiagnosed and passed it down. Both my younger brother have it one more severe than the other.  I do not suffer from it even after being told I supposedly have it as well.  30 years ago it was some new and not well understood. 

Today I am glad to see it recognized, although I have run across some who overzealously ascribe some normal child behaviors to this.  Having grown up witnessing it, I can honestly say there is a difference between normal behaviors and ADD/ADHD.  I’ve often seen this diagnosis pushed on children who are simply the result of different parenting methods.  I am disgusted to see videos on platforms where grown adults throw the equivalent of a toddler tantrum in a store. 

NATIONAL ADD/ADHD AWARENESS MONTH

The Attentional Deficit Disorder Association promotes this awareness month each October helping to bring information, tools, and resources to those who need it most.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ADDAwarenessMonth

Learn more about ADD and ADHD. Understand that all of us find it difficult to concentrate from time to time. That doesn’t mean we have ADD or ADHD. However, for persistent and severe cases, testing is available to determine if you or your child may have this condition. Help is available from a variety of sources. Visit add.org or addrc.org to learn more.

Help to dispell the myth that a child with ADD or ADHD is attention-seeking or just misbehaving. Their brains are wired differently. Share coping skills and ways to help children in the classroom, at home, and in their everyday environments.

Share your experiences and support by using #ADDAwarenessMonth on social media.