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ADHD and ADD: Understanding the Differences and Their Impact

What Are ADHD and ADD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It is one of the most common learning and behavioural differences seen in both children and adults.

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an older term once used to describe individuals who primarily have inattentive symptoms without hyperactivity. Today, ADD is considered a type of ADHD known as the inattentive presentation.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, ADHD is divided into three main types:

  1. Inattentive Type (formerly ADD) – Difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganisation.

  2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – Fidgeting, restlessness, impulsive behaviour.

  3. Combined Type – A mix of inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.

These challenges are not due to laziness or lack of intelligence — they are neurological in nature and can be managed with the right strategies and support.

How Common Is ADHD?

ADHD affects roughly 5–7% of school-age children worldwide and often continues into adulthood. In Singapore, the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) estimates that around 5% of children have ADHD symptoms that significantly affect their daily life.

Many adults remain undiagnosed until later in life, when attention difficulties, forgetfulness, or disorganisation begin to interfere with work or relationships.

Symptoms of ADHD and ADD

In Children

  • Struggles to sit still or focus on one task

  • Easily distracted or daydreams frequently

  • Forgets instructions or loses items regularly

  • Difficulty waiting their turn

  • Makes careless mistakes in schoolwork

In Adults

  • Difficulty sustaining attention at work or in meetings

  • Forgetting appointments or tasks

  • Frequently starting projects without finishing them

  • Restlessness or trouble relaxing

  • Impulsiveness in speech or decisions

Every person’s experience is unique. Some show hyperactivity, while others mainly struggle with mental focus or memory.

How ADHD and ADD Are Diagnosed in Singapore

A formal diagnosis typically involves several steps:

  1. Initial Observation – Teachers, parents, or individuals themselves notice ongoing difficulties with focus, organisation, or self-control.

  2. Screening – Basic checklists or rating scales may be completed by parents or teachers.

  3. Formal Assessment – Conducted by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, this includes detailed interviews, behaviour observations, and cognitive tests.

  4. Diagnosis – Based on recognised criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).

In Singapore, assessments are available at:

How ADHD and ADD Affect Learning

Children and adults with ADHD or ADD may experience difficulties in school, university, or work due to challenges with attention, memory, or organisation.

  • Reading and writing: Frequent mistakes, missing key details, or skipping lines.

  • Task completion: Taking longer to finish assignments or projects.

  • Time management: Trouble estimating how long tasks will take.

  • Emotional regulation: Frustration, anxiety, or low self-esteem when comparing themselves to others.

These difficulties can also overlap with dyslexia — another learning difference related to reading and language processing. In fact, research suggests that up to 40% of individuals with dyslexia also have ADHD symptoms.

👉 Learn more about Dyslexia Mastery and Attention Mastery.

Support and Treatment Options

While ADHD cannot be “cured”, it can be effectively managed. Treatment often includes a combination of approaches:

1. Behavioural and Educational Support

  • Structured routines and clear expectations.

  • Positive reinforcement and consistent feedback.

  • Specialised learning programmes focusing on focus and organisation skills.

2. Therapy and Coaching

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps improve focus and manage impulsivity.

  • ADHD coaching provides personalised strategies for organisation and planning.

3. Medical Intervention

For some individuals, medication prescribed by a psychiatrist can significantly reduce symptoms and improve attention.

4. Lifestyle and Environmental Strategies

  • Adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise.

  • Minimising distractions during work or study.

  • Using reminders, planners, or digital tools to stay organised.

Living with ADHD or ADD

Having ADHD or ADD does not define a person’s potential. Many individuals with these conditions are innovative thinkers and creative problem-solvers. Well-known figures such as Richard Branson and Simone Biles have publicly discussed their experiences with ADHD, showing that success is entirely possible with understanding and support.

At Mind Mechanics, we recognise that every individual’s learning journey is different. Through personalised support and structured correction programmes, we aim to help both children and adults reach their full potential — in school, work, and life.

Next Steps

If you or your child show possible signs of ADHD or ADD:

  • Record observed behaviours or struggles over time.

  • Speak with teachers or supervisors about patterns of inattention or impulsivity.

  • Arrange an assessment through IMH, DAS, or a private provider.

  • Seek early intervention to build strategies that work.

Still have questions?
👉 Visit our FAQs or Contact Us for guidance on assessments and support options.

Explore our Programmes to see how we help individuals build focus, confidence, and lifelong learning skills.

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