Do you remember in school there was always that one kid who was the class clown? That one kid who got poor grades even though they seems to turn their work in everyday? That kid that had mood swings or acted out in class? The kid that asked a lot of questions on things that where already covered? It wasn't because this kid was dumb or slow, a natural goof off, or just didn't care. It was probably because this just this kid just didn't process information or see thing "normally". Imagine holding a television remote and changing the channels every 2 minutes. Imagine how you would feel after drinking about 3 energy drinks within a half an hour. This is what it's like to have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder).

ADHD is a behavioral and developmental disorder. It is not exactly known what causes ADHD. All researchers know is that there is a definite difference in the brains of people with the disease. Up to 7% of school aged children are diagnosed with it. ADHD usually shows up in childhood and can carry on to adulthood and can cause problems in the home, at school, and on the job if it is not properly diagnosed and treated. Doctors estimate that about 60% of adults that have ADHD also had it as a child.

The symptoms of ADHD or inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness that are not appropriate for the persons age level. The ways to spot someone who has ADHD are:

• Inability to concentrate for long periods of time
• Easily distracted by sounds and sights in the environment
• Are restless and fidgety
• Tend to day dream
• Slow to complete tasks

Adults with ADHD:

• Have problems with prioritizing
• Meeting deadlines
• Making appointments on time
• Appear anxious and disorganized

There is no set test to diagnose ADHD. The diagnosis is based on studying people and how they act compared to others of the same age. There also is no cure for ADHD but it can be treated through medication, and some experts believe a special diet can help control the symptoms.

So next time you see some one that is struggling with a task, can't concentrate on what they are doing, can't prioritize please be patient. Maybe offer some assistance. More than likely this person is very flustered with themselves or or thinks they are dumb (which is not the case). Having ADHD is literally a roller coaster ride of thoughts and emotions. I have people ask me what it is like to have ADHD (because I do). The best thing I can think of to tell them is to surf channels on the television while at a disco dance and take notes on what they can focus on for any period of time. I am pretty sure the results wouldn't be very good.