What Does Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) Feel Like?

Todd, a ninth grader, is struggling at school. Though he has always had trouble concentrating, things have recently gotten worse. In class, he finds his mind wandering. Sometimes the teacher will call on him and he has no idea what has been going on in. He often forgets his books in his locker, so he is usually unprepared for his classes. He feels that school is almost a complete waste of time for him. His room is a complete mess, and he feels very unorganized. He often has trouble sitting still, and sometimes he snaps at his friends or family because he feels irritable. His family is worried about him because of his grades and his attitude. He wants to do better, but he feels like his life is not in his control.

Todd has Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity or ADHD. People with ADD generally have problems focusing their attention and are often restless and impulsive. ADHD is characterized by impulsiveness, distractibility, and restlessness. The symptoms are present from childhood with greater intensity than in the average person, so they interfere with daily functions. Though ADHD makes many areas of life difficult, it is very common and can be treated.