Inattentive or Hyperactive?  

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/HD)?

ADD/HD is not a new disorder, it has been referred to for over a century (1). ADD/HD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can be viewed on a continuum. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. The presentation of symptoms can be single or mixed. The disorder has direct significant negative impacts in more than one area of ​​a person's life (school, work, family, etc.). In Quebec, the number of people with ADD/HD is estimated at 5% (2). The prevalence is estimated to be 2.5% in adults. In 50% to 65% of cases, the disorder present in childhood continues into adulthood. There would be a ratio of 2 boys affected for each girl. Some symptoms can change over time and even disappear while others persist or worsen. The prevalence is considered to be the same worldwide (3).

Common symptoms:

• Easily distracted

• Difficulty resuming a task after distraction

• Difficulty concentrating on reading or speaking

• Difficulty getting down to business, procrastination

• Absentmindedness or daydreaming

• Takes more time than average to complete a task

• Disorganization

• Moves around a lot and changes tasks often

• Juggles multiple ideas at once without bringing them to fruition

• Inability to finish projects

• Busy brain, can’t stop thoughts

Assessment and intervention:

Since attentional difficulties can have several causes (neurological, psychopathological, medical such as thyroid disorders, or a poor lifestyle, etc.) it is important to determine the cause of the disorder. It is therefore through an exhaustive neuropsychological assessment considering the different aspects that a fair and relevant diagnosis can be made. It is then possible to determine whether it is a neurocognitive disorder or secondary symptoms of another problem. Following this, a precise and adequate intervention may be recommended.

Interventions for ADD/HD can include pharmacology, school accomodations, psychological interventions, but also occupational therapy follow-up, or parental coaching. To alleviate the difficulties of the disorder, adaptations and accommodations can also be put in place both at school and at work.

References 

1. Bange, F. ADD / HD Checklist: Across All Ages of Life. s.l.: Dunod, 2014.

2. INSTITUTTA. [Online] https://www.institutta.com/.

3. Mazeau, M. and Pouhet, A. Neuropsychology and learning disorders in children: From typical development to “dys-”. s.l.: Elsevier Masson, 2014.