Getting lost in daydreams and unable to concentrate... Is this not ADHD?

Difference between CDS and ADHD

Everyone tends to indulge in daydreams or fantasies. However, people with CDS often become so absorbed in their fantasies that they find it difficult to concentrate on long-term tasks. It's not simply due to carelessness or laziness. The pattern is persistent enough to interfere with a person's ability to succeed across various areas of life.

CDS is not recognized as a distinct 'attention disorder' in the DSM, the standard classification of mental disorders in the United States. However, there is a growing body of research suggesting that it deserves more attention independently of ADHD and should be considered separately.

One way to distinguish between the two mental disorders is that people with ADHD can focus on something but are easily distracted and likely to shift their attention to other things. In contrast, people with CDS are unable to focus in the first place.

How is CDS diagnosed?

Because there are no official criteria, diagnosis is difficult. However, some psychologists assess symptoms such as frequent daydreaming, mental confusion, and slow processing speed by combining questionnaires and behavioral observations. Parents and teachers often report these behaviors in children who appear distracted or who take a long time to respond to questions and complete tasks.

A slow processing speed means it takes longer to receive, understand, and respond to information. For example, a student with slow processing speed takes more time to answer questions or complete assignments at school. This is because they need more time to understand the material and think about their responses. It is not due to a lack of intelligence or effort, but simply because their brain processes information more slowly.

Support and treatment for CDS continue to advance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is generally used to help people develop better coping strategies and improve concentration. Some researchers are exploring the use of stimulants similar to those used for ADHD, but the evidence is not yet conclusive. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a more stable sleep routine and engaging in regular exercise also help manage symptoms.

Support delayed due to lack of awareness

The biggest challenge is lack of awareness. Many people, including healthcare professionals, often dismiss CDS as mere laziness or lack of effort. Such stigmas can hinder individuals from seeking help and receiving the support they need.

Despite a lack of official recognition, CDS is estimated to affect a significant portion of the population. There are studies suggesting it could be as common as ADHD, which affects 5-7% of children.

Understanding CDS is very important because it can help injured individuals receive the support they need. Recognizing that CDS behavior is not merely a whim or an attempt to show indifference due to being too cold-hearted, but rather a potential indicator of a broader issue, can aid in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.