What's the difference between ADHD vs. ADD?

An ADHD diagnosis is based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) for both children and adults. It’s typically diagnosed by a pediatrician, psychiatrist, or licensed therapist. 

ADHD cannot be diagnosed from one test, however. It’s usually diagnosed through a process of written assessments, questions, history of signs, and checking with the DSM-5-TR criteria. 

For children, diagnosis often involves discussions with others in the children’s lives such as parents or teachers. These adults have a consistent view of the child’s behavior and can share information that gets used as part of the diagnosis process. 

Once a diagnosis is made, there are several treatment options. The most common options include: 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most well-researched and strongly supported treatments for teen and adult ADHD. The cognitive side helps people spot unhelpful thoughts that drive procrastination, frustration, and low self-esteem, then build a more balanced outlook, reducing those difficult feelings. The behavioral side teaches practical skills like chunking tasks, scheduling, and using reminders. CBT works best for people who want structure, homework, and concrete tools.

Behavioral therapy: This type of therapy works best with children and teens. It often involves parents (parent training in behavioral management, or PTBM), teachers (behavioral classroom management, or BCM), and other trusted adults. These approaches reduce environmental challenges and reward positive behaviors, with a strong focus on shaping the child's surroundings to set them up for more success. 

Medication: ADHD affects how the brain works, and medication can help reduce symptoms. That said, there are different medication options for treating ADHD. Medication is recommended as a treatment option for both adults and children, while behavioral interventions are recommended to be tried first or in combination with medications for children. 

Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications are treatment options. Research has shown stimulants, which are more commonly used, to have a higher effect on ADHD symptoms than non-stimulants. They work by boosting chemicals in the brain that help with focus and self-control. Non-stimulant medications work in a different way in the brain and are usually recommended when stimulants don't work well or cause unwanted side effects.

When considering medications, you should consult with a professional who is licensed to prescribe medications and specializes in treating ADHD. 

Mindfulness-based therapy: Mindfulness-based approaches teach present-moment awareness, accepting thoughts and emotions without judgment, and techniques for regulating attention. This helps people zoom out and notice when their focus drifts or emotions spike. 

Emerging research supports this approach for managing ADHD symptoms. It can be a strong secondary option alongside CBT or medication, but isn’t recommended as a replacement for those treatments.

School or workplace accommodations: Accommodations are changes made to a school or work setting that help someone with ADHD perform better without changing the actual task.

For a child in school, this might look like preferential seating, extra time on tests or assignments, frequent breaks, small-group instruction, note-taking help, and written directions. School accommodations often require a formal diagnosis from a healthcare professional before they can be set up, but the process can vary. It’s a good idea to speak with your child’s teachers or school counselors to understand the best path to in-school support. 

For an adult in the workplace, examples include a quieter workspace, noise-canceling headphones, flexible scheduling, written instructions, task breakdowns, regular check-ins, and productivity tools.

Lifestyle changes: A range of lifestyle changes can work to alleviate symptoms of ADHD. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day — and getting enough sleep — can improve focus and behavior for people with ADHD. Getting active with exercise like running, weightlifting, or sports a few times a week can help with managing symptoms. Finally, keeping spaces tidy, following simple daily routines, and reducing distractions may also help manage symptoms alongside other treatments.