This category lists pages and sites about Attention Deficit Disorder, commonly referred to as ADD. The condition is also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD for short.

Individuals with ADD usually have too little of certain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, in their brains. Neurotransmitters control impulses and because of this chemical shortage, people with ADD have a hard time paying attention to just one thing. They tend to be impatient, very impulsive, get bored very fast and are always on the go. They often find it difficult to sit still, and they may fidget a lot.

ADD is not considered a disease or a form of mental retardation, and people with ADD are usually physically healthy. They are often very smart and creative, but they may need medical help to reach their full potential.

Doctors aren't sure why people have the chemical shortage that causes ADD, but they do know that it tends to run in families. They also know that it is very common, affecting as many as 1 in 20 people. Doctors treat ADD in a variety of ways. They may prescribe medication, order a change in diet, recommend counseling, or any combination of these.