These other conditions can make living with ADHD more difficult, because many of them hinder the person's ability to concentrate or control impulses. Approximately one out of four children with ADHD also have a learning disability, while many others have significant difficulty in school, including behavioral problems that disrupt the ability to learn in the classroom.

A small percentage of people with ADHD also have Tourette syndrome, an uncommon disorder characterized by facial tics and other uncontrollable movements.

When a treatment plan focuses only on the ADHD symptoms, it may leave these other problems untouched. More appropriate strategies help someone with ADHD learn to deal with these additional problems.

Studies have also shown that people with ADHD also are more likely to have speech and language disorders and health problems such as upper respiratory infections and allergies. Additionally, many are at increased risk for accidental injury.

In the more extreme, some children with attention deficit disorder show forms of antisocial behavior and may actually have what is called "oppositional defiant disorder." These children can be obstinate, aggressive, verbally hostile and disobedient. Moreoever, a substantial number of children with ADHD also may develop conduct disorder, characterized by lying, stealing, and becoming physically aggressive. Careful screening can help access what is ADHD and what may be one of these other personality or childhood disorders, and develop appropriate treatments.

Some people with attention deficit disorder experience extreme anxiety. They tend to worry unnecessarily or feel undue stress, which can lead to depression, low self-esteem, and alcohol and drug abuse.

Careful evaluation is crucial to determine the best treatment for children and adults with with ADHD who have co-occurring conditions, and to rule out diagnoses that mimic ADHD. For example, sleep disorders, sometimes cause fatigue, irritability, anxiety, depression, aggressiveness and memory problems. A psychotherapist can perform such an evaluation, and develop a treatment plan that addresses all concerns.

References
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About the Author

Dr. Randi Fredricks, Ph.D. is a psychotherapist and author specializing in the treatment of mental health using integrative medicine and natural therapies. She works with individuals, couples, and families at her office in San Jose, California. Dr. Fredricks' publications include the landmark book Healing & Wholeness: Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Mental Health. No part of this article may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems. Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of Dr. Randi Fredricks as articles often present the published results of the research of other professionals. Copyright © 2012.