ADD / ADHD Affects Learning and Memory

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ( ADHD ), also known as Attention Deficit Disorder ( ADD ), is a condition that affects concentration, learning, and memory. While adults can be affected, it is more commonly diagnosed in childen, especially boys.

Symptoms include hyperactivity, distractability, poor school performance, impulsive behavior, and problems focusing on tasks.

In recent years, ADD/ADHD has become a popular diagnosis. In fact, some people feel that doctors over-diagnose this disease, and that some hyperactivity, especially in children, is normal.

There is currently no "cure" for this condition, but certain diet and lifestyle modifications are believed to help reduce some of the more debilitating symptoms.

ADD/ADHD and Memory

For children with this condition, distractability and problems with concentration usually lead to difficulties in school. It is easy to understand why.

In order to learn something new, we must first assimilate the information (take it in). We cannot learn or remember anything that has not entered our mind through conscious or unconscious means.

A child with ADD/ADHD cannot focus on information or events around them as easily as other children. When it is time to memorize and understand something new, it is therefore a struggle.

ADD/ADHD Treatment

That is why doctors often prescribe pharmaceutical ADD/ADHD medications for these children. Stimulant drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall help them pay attention and concentrate. However, these medications are not without risks and side effects.

Fortunately there are some natural, non-pharmaceutical methods that may also help. Any activity that improves concentration should also help decrease the symptoms of ADD/ADHD.

For example, receiving sufficient restful sleep each night helps clear the mind and consolidate new memories. Regular exercise, which stimulates blood flow and oxygen transport to the brain, can also help.

Playing brain games for a few minutes each day can help strengthen the neural pathways used when focusing and concentrating. A healthy diet, including so-called brain foods as well as fish oil and a vitamin supplement can help insure the brain has all the nutrients it needs to function optimally.

Many of these non-drug methods are described on this website. Be sure to consult with a physician regarding the appropriate medical treatments for ADD/ADHD.

Lumosity ADHD Course. Lumosity, the online brain training service I use, recently added an ADHD brain training course. Here's a screen shot of the course start page from my account:

This course is free for Lumosity subscribers. According to Lumosity scientists, the course is:

Specifically designed brain training for ADHD

Develops sustained attention and focus

Targets improvement of working memory

Fun and easy: full workout in 10 minutes/day

If you have a child diagnosed with ADD/ADHD (or suspect they may have it) or you are an adult with this condition, you need to try this course. Lumosity is so cheap, anyway - $7 per month - plus you can get a free two-week trial before subscribing to see if it works for your situation.

First, go to the Lumosity website and see for yourself what it's all about. When you are ready to sign up for the free trial, click the Create Account link at the top of the page to get started.

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