ADHD: Learn About Symptoms, Find Support
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of children throughout the United States. Many more people think they might have it because the symptoms can appear quite commonplace. That is why the Internet is bustling with Web sites devoted to ADHD-sites that try to clear up exactly what characterizes the disorder; sites that want to bring people together who live with it; and sites that teach people how best to manage it. Certainly the Internet is no replacement for a doctor, and almost all the sites below are quick to admit that, but the ADHD information on the Internet is a tool that should not be wasted.
Expand All Guide SectionsADHD and ADD Basics
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), also referred to as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), has three variations. Some sufferers mainly have trouble concentrating on a task but are able to remain still. Others can stay focused on a task but cannot keep still. The third group, the majority, experience both. The Internet can make it easy to find both general and in-depth information on ADHD and some helpful organizations.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Because ADHD is usually associated with children, the majority of sites on the issue are directed toward parents. As a result, they tend to assume that the reader has little prior medical knowledge. But there are certainly sites out there for individuals with more in-depth medical knowledge.
- When you search ADHD on the Internet, you will consistently come across many of the same sites. Sites like the National Resource Center on AD/HD and the American Academy of Pediatrics are sure to offer ample information during any part of your search.
- If you are using a search engine to find further information on ADHD, be sure to enter the full acronym: ADHD or AD/HD, not ADD. Although you will find plenty of helpful results with "ADD," you will be more successful with "ADHD," as the better-established authorities on the subject frequently use the official wording.
Dulcinea's Picks
For a quick introduction to ADHD ...
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
has an extremely concise site that is not an overwhelming way to start such a potentially intimidating quest for information. You'll find a rundown of what ADHD is, the treatments available, the prognosis, and the research currently being done.
For an overview of ADHD ...
The National Resource Center on AD/HD
uses the FAQ format. You can search the archive of questions and answers for your topic of interest, or pose your question via phone or e-mail. This site does a good job of laying down the basics in a format that's easy to follow.
The National Institute of Mental Health
provides this extensive Web site that covers everything you need to know about the disorder including its history, symptoms, causes, treatments, coping, and more. You can also download the information in a PDF file for easier reading.
For extensive information on ADHD ...
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities
has a reader-friendly Web site that makes it easy to find what you want. There is a section aptly called "Short and Sweet" and then another section called "Dive in Deeper," with a 24-page information trove. Information is also available in Spanish.
The Mayo Clinic
has a site that contains information about all aspects of ADHD, including causes, treatments, complications, how to cope, and more. It is user-friendly, as you can simply click on which category interests you.
ADHD News
is a site dedicated to ADHD. Although the site appears sloppy, it is still a great resource with hundreds of pages examining ADHD and about 8,000 members, according to the site. It describes the problem, lists ways of determining whether someone has it, offers discussion boards, and uniquely, presents news updates in its blog so people can get the most recent information on the disorder.
NewIdeas.net
contains a lot of updated and current information as well as some future possibilities for medication and cutting-edge developments. Though not as well established as some of the other sites that are hosted by medical organizations or foundations, NewIdeas has more than 150 pages of information and was started by a doctor with over 20 years of experience helping those with ADHD.
For official organizations ...
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
(CHADD), with more than 16,000 members and 200 chapters in the United States, was founded in 1987 to bring ADHD to public attention. The site provides lots of information, particularly through the National Resource Center on AD/HD links, which we link to often throughout this guide.
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association
is probably the most extensive site dealing strictly with adults who have ADHD, providing a considerable amount of information and networking opportunities. It even has a short self test to help determine whether you might have ADHD.
The Learning Disabilities Association of America
has information about learning disabilities in general, without a focus on ADHD. The site is for parents, teachers and medical professionals, and the purpose of the organization is to give people with learning disabilities more opportunities to succeed in society.
ADHD Treatment
There is no cure for ADHD, but there are many treatments. Because those with the disorder may ... read more »
Support for ADHD
The effects of ADHD are not limited to the individual who suffers from the disorder. Sometimes ... read more »
Adult ADHD Help
Because signs of ADHD generally develop early in childhood, ADHD is commonly considered a childhood ... read more »
ADHD Research and News
Medical breakthroughs occur so often now that it can be difficult to keep up with the news. As the ... read more »
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