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Resources and Glossary
(continued)Glossary
Amphetamine A type of stimulant drug that is used to treat ADHD.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder A neurodevelopmental disorder that is marked especially by persistent symptoms of inattention (such as distractibility, forgetfulness, or disorganization) or by symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity (such as fidgeting, speaking out of turn, or restlessness) or by symptoms of all three.
Chronic Continuing or occurring again and again for a long time.
Clinical assessment Assessments of a person’s physical condition and behavior that are used in order to determine a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Cognitive behavioral therapy A treatment option that can help reduce behaviors that can be disruptive to others. Behavior therapy seeks to strengthen positive behaviors and replace unwanted or problem behaviors.
Comorbidity A medical condition that exists simultaneously with, and usually independently of, another medical condition.
Dopamine A chemical made in the brain that carries messages between nerve cells and is involved in many brain activities, including movement and emotion.
Environmental toxin A small amount of a poison that is found in the air, water, food, etc.
Extended-release Medications that release the drug into the bloodstream slowly over time.
Gene The basic unit by which inherited information is passed from a parent to a child.
Hyperactivity Higher levels of movement or activity that are considered excessive.
Immediate-release Medications that release most of the drug into the bloodstream quickly.
Impulsivity Prone to act on an impulse.
Inattention Failure to pay attention.
Long-acting Medications that work in phases to treat symptoms throughout the day.
Medical condition A condition that requires medical attention or treatment.
Methylphenidate A type of stimulant drug that is used to treat ADHD.
Neurodevelopmental Having to do with the development of the nervous system.
Non-stimulant Medications that work by increasing the activity of a chemical in the brain that is linked to attention.
Psychiatric condition A mental condition that affects a person's thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood and can impact day-to-day living and the ability to relate to others.
Psychoeducation The process of providing information about a psychological condition to patients and family members to help them understand the disease and its management so that they can be active participants in their treatment decisions.
Remission A period of time during which a person gets relief from symptoms.
Short-acting Medications that start working quickly after taking them. The effects wear off after a few hours.
Side effect A secondary and usually unwanted effect of a drug.
Stimulant Prescription medicines that are used to treat ADHD. Stimulants may help increase alertness and attention. Despite their name, stimulants actually have a calming effect on individuals with ADHD who exhibit hyperactivity. They increase the levels of brain chemicals. One of these chemicals, dopamine, is associated with motivation, attention, and movement.
