ADD Diagnosis/DSM-IV

   “The “bible” of mental disorders is known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV).  This book is ostensibly the last word on what is and what is not a mental disorder.  It lists ADD under “Disruptive Disorders,” and clearly outlines the criteria for diagnosing ADD and ADD-type behaviors.  However by its very nature, DSM-IV does not cover all of the wide variations and presentations of this pervasive disorder.  It does, of course, cover the more global aspects and the symptom highlights, including the most commonly observed behaviors.     The DSM-IV describes the  essential features of ADD as “a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity”  The criteria listing includes the following:  l.  Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless errors.  2.  Has difficulty sustaining attention.  3.  Not listening when spoken to.  4.  Not following through on tasks.  5.  Organizational problems.  6.  Avoiding tasks that require sustained attention.  7.  Often loses things.  8.  Easily distracted.  9. Forgetful.       The category of hyperactivity includes the following common behavior characteristics:  1.  Often blurts out answers.  2.  Has difficulty waiting one’s turn.  3.  Often interrupts or intrudes on others.     The DSM-IV is critical to the diagnosis of ADD.  It sets the standard standard measurement used by mental health professionals for diagnosing disorders.  However, it does not expand on the wide variety of manifestations this complex disorder can take.  ADD is more than just a list of symptoms from three categories to be checked off.  ADD is a pervasive disorder that can present in dozens of different ways.  One case can present so differently from another that you would not consider them the same disorder.”     From Getting Rid of Ritalin by Robert W. Hill, Ph.D. and Eduardo Castro, M.D.     Accurate assessments of brain function can be achieved with qEEG, Brain Maps.  All of our clients begin with a qEEG analysis.Not all are ADD or ADHD who have been “told” they were.