Studies have estimated that as many as 4.4% or adults have some degree of Attention Deficit Disorder. Statistics show that people with this disorder are less likely to achieve academically and can have difficulty holding down long-term, full-time employment.

ADD is actually caused by problems with the brains dopamine neurotransmitter systems. An old theory that ADD can be caused by poor diet has now been disproven. Neither is ADD the result of parental influence or bad parenting. Most cases of ADD are actually inherited. If a close family member or a parent has ADD then there is a 30% chance that a child will exhibit the same condition.

During childhood the symptoms of ADD can be very clear. Children are known to develop through three distinct stages. The first stage occurs durning babyhood when they begin to focus on objects around them. The object will hold their attention for a period of time.

The next stage takes place during the toddler years when they can’t seem to focus on anything for very long. A child that continues to exhibit this type of behavior may be diagnosed as having ADD.

It is the third stage of development when children exhibit the ability to focus for longer periods of time and to control their focus. This pattern of attention and concentration is what is required in classroom situations.

One of the key aspects of ADD is not only that sufferers can’t focus on something for very long. ADD sufferers don’t have the ability to choose what they are focusing upon and can therefore be distracted by anything. This can become very apparent when undertaking a routine task like crossing the road. If they are required to wait then their attention can quickly be drawn to something else.

What is happening is that their brain is not adequately stimulated to release neuro chemicals and so it looks for additional stimulus. For ADD sufferers this a spontaneous, reflex reaction that is outside of their control.

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Hopefully these notes will have provided some insight into what underpins Attention Deficit Disorder. Many forms of treatment exist, including drugs, but outdoor activity has been found to be therapeutic. Bushcraft courses can be a great way to learn about the outdoors at any time of year. Just make sure you are wrapped up in some warm outdoor clothing and you take along a good sleeping bag.