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Is it lack of attention or forgetfulness?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that impacts the ability to focus and pay attention. It is caused by chemical, structural, and connectivity differences in the brain, mostly as a result of genetics. Children and adults of any age can struggle with the disorder.
In a six- year span, among the 5,416 children and adults who went to them with a diagnosis of ADHD, LearningRx found the greatest deficits in processing speed, working memory (also known as short-term memory), and long-term memory. This suggests that children and adults with ADHD need interventions that address more than just attention deficits. Wondering if you or someone you know could possibly have ADHD? Try this self-test for adults from add.org. A psychiatrist, psychologist or developmental pediatrician (for children) familiar in dealing with ADHD can give a more definite diagnosis.
SUSTAINED ATTENTION
What it does: Enables you to stay focused and on task for a sustained period of time. Common problems when this skill is weak: Lots of unfinished projects, jumping from task to task.
SELECTIVE ATTENTION
What it does: Enables you to stay focused and on a task despite distractions. Common problems when this skill is weak: Easily distracted.
DIVIDED ATTENTION
What it does: Enables you to remember information while doing two things at once.
Common problems when this skill is weak: Difficulty multitasking, frequent mistakes.
LONG-TERM MEMORY
What it does: Enables you to recall information stored in the past. Common problems when this skill is weak: Forgetting names, doing poorly on tests, forgetting things you used to know.
WORKING MEMORY (OR SHORT-TERM)
What it does: Enables you to hang on to information while in the process of using it.
Common problems when this skill is weak: Having to read the directions again in the middle of a project, difficulty following multi-step directions, forgetting what was just said in a conversation.
PROCESSING SPEED
What it does: Enables you to perform tasks quickly and accurately. Common problems when this skill is weak: Most tasks are more difficult. Taking a long time to complete tasks for school or work, frequently being the last one in a group to finish something.
ADHD is more than meets the eye. In fact, what manifests itself as hyperactivity on the onset could just be the tip of the iceberg and involves other areas that need strengthening.
If you or someone you know is struggling with focusing that affects school or work performance, know that we can help. Learn more about our evidence-based programs: 1. Call us at (2) 8801 2475 2. Visit our Facebook page
3. Drop by our center in BGC, Taguig (open daily except Mondays)
Sources: learningrx.com, additude.com, add.org