Texas State - Student Health Center

What is Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity?
Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity is a neurological disorder that presents itself with the symptoms of distractibility, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, poor attention span and impulsiveness. While ADHD always begins in childhood, it can continue into adulthood. Adults still suffer from the same symptoms of childhood ADHD, but the symptoms often are "hidden" by other circumstances in the person's life such as relationships and work as well as an adult's increased ability to cope with personal problems.

Is it common?
Research indicates that AD/HD occurs in approximately three to five percent of school-age children and approximately two to four percent of adults. Among children, the gender ratio is approximately 3:1, with boys more likely to have the disorder than girls. Among adults, the gender ratio falls to 2:1 or lower. The disorder has been found to exist in every country in which it has been studied, including North America, South America, Great Britain, Scandinavia, Europe, Japan, China, Turkey and the Middle East.

What are the symptoms?
In adults, the symptoms often are subtler. Instead of running around the playground, you may tap their foot or doodle during a meeting. You may also begin a project but not complete it in order to begin a new, more interesting project. Adults with ADHD also tend to remain impulsive. You might interrupt conversations or speak without thinking. As a result, adults will often experience problems with interpersonal relationships, educational achievements and employment. While some adults find that understanding ADHD helps them to cope with their symptoms, other adults have a lowered self-esteem since they may view themselves as lazy, mentally inept or even crazy. With a proper diagnosis and counseling, a person can overcome these symptoms and feelings and continue to live a productive life.

When should I seek help?
ADHD can have serious effects on your daily life. Because of this, you should seek help if you are finding that your daily habits, or lack of them, are causing difficulty at work, school or in relationships.

How do I help a friend who has ADHD?
Remember to be supportive. Encourage them to seek help if they have not done so. Keep in mind that your friend may say or do things that will probably hurt or embarass you. Knowing this beforehand can prepare you for interactions with your friend. You should also seek support for yourself. You do not and should not be your friend's sole support. Take time for yourself and let your friend know what you can and cannot handle.

How is ADHD diagnosed?
ADHD cannot be diagnosed with a simple blood test or a brain scan since the disorder is neurological rather than physiological. In order to determine whether you have ADHD, a doctor will look at the following: past and present ADHD symptoms; symptoms of "co-existing disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse disorders and learning disabilities; school, work and social experiences and information from friends, family members and employers.

How is ADHD treated?
As with children, adults may be treated with medicine as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This plan includes includes psychological, educational and social measures. The treatment should be a part of the support of family and friends. In addition, especially with adults, advice may play more of a key role in managing ADHD. Psychological treatment, such as behavioral therapy, may also be used, if necessary.

Links you can use
Health Education Resource Center (512) 245-2309
Walk-ins and appointments are welcome to obtain confidential answers to health questions. Located in suite 201 of the Student Health Center at the corner of Sessom and Tomas Rivera Drive.

Student Health Center (512) 245-2167
Located at the corner of Sessom and Tomas Rivera Streets.
Confidential information and care is available by appointment with a physician or nurse. There are no fees for medical care at the Student Health Center. However, there may be fees incurred if laboratory tests, medications, specialist or emergency hospital care is needed.

Counseling Center (512) 245-2208
Located on the fifth floor of the LBJ Student Center.
Confidential counseling appointments are available for students. Services include crisis intervention, short-term psychotherapy and referrals. There are no fees for appointments.

Psychiatry24x7.com
This site offers information about ADHD in children and adults, an ADHD symptoms checklist, quizzes and polls and an e-mail newsletter.

About.com
This site offers general information as well as a section about the top ten things adults with ADHD want you to know.

MedlinePlus
At this site, you will find information about ADHD, different treatments and alternative therapies.

Last Modified: September 7, 2006