As someone who has ADD I find the term "mental illness" in reference to ADD/ADHD to be more or less unnecessary. Our brains are wired differently and we process information unlike others, that is not a necessarily a bad thing. We have issues that can be frustrating to other people, time management, procrastination, organization and easily distracted. Many, especially young kids have hyperactivity issues along with social issues. Many of these traits can be controlled and improved over time with the right support and treatment plan. We are also in touch with reality, we know right from wrong. ADD is not a cause of committing crimes or hurting people. The lack of support or proper treatment can cause other issues that can in time cause serious problems. It's that term "mental illness" that society had labeled anything that involves the brain that keeps people from getting properly diagnosed and getting treatment. It's a stigma that is unwarranted because most of us with ADD happen to be highly intelligent and creative, we just process things differently.