ADHD at a Glance

Although we frequently hear about ADHD in school-aged children and the medication debates surrounding it through the news media, for many of us, the basics of ADHD remain unclear. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, better known as ADHD, is a medical condition that affects areas of the brain responsible for controlling behavior, memory, thinking, and planning and organization, or "executive functioning". Those living with the condition usually feel easily bored, distracted and unable to sit still. They may find it difficult to concentrate, plan ahead or finish simple assignments, creating problems with academic performance, social activities, and/or behavior. This in turn can lead to problems in school such as lowered self-esteem and depression due to being unable to perform at the same level as their peers. Many of us experience these issues from time to time, but that does not mean that we are all living with ADHD. The behavior will become marked and out of control, and can add stress to the individual and those around him/her, particularly parents, siblings, and teachers.

ADHD is most common among children and young teens in numbers as high as 5 percent or 2 million American children. Many children who have ADHD will express symptoms as early as nine or ten years old. ADHD is reportedly more common among young boys in rates as high as three times that found in girls. While it is more common among children, cases of ADHD in adults have been estimated at about 3 percent of the American population. Studies have shown that children with ADHD continue to display symptoms of the condition into their adult lives. Even though ADHD has been recognized as a disorder in adults for over ten years, there are still only a few studies of its impact in the adult population. Treatment options available for children are often extended to adults as well.

Several treatment options are available to those living with ADHD, which include individual counseling, play therapy, dietary changes, and even pet therapy. Treatments for ADHD, including behavior modification, medication, and a combination of both have proven effective, but these effects are only short-term. No long-term treatment has been shown to control or cure ADHD.

For every treatment option there are risks and benefits that individuals must weigh when choosing the best plan. Behavior modification alone has proven successful for more than thirty years in managing disruptive behavior, social skills, and academic performance. Training is provided for teachers, parents and other caregivers introducing and reinforcing a community element into the life of the child. The risks associated with behavior modification are almost non-existent.

Medication has also proven itself to be effective over time. Stimulants especially are the best treatment for ADHD. The most well-known, fast acting medications proven to improve attention span, self control and social functioning are Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall, and Metadate. While these medications have the most favorable effects because the results can be noticed relatively quickly, they, as with all medication, have side effects. Stimulants may be addictive; they may also cause stomachache or headache, increased heart rate, chest pain, vomiting, trouble sleeping, and a decrease in appetite, which can lead to weight loss. There are ways to decrease side effects such as taking low doses or taking medication with food. Because of these issues, a non-stimulant, Strattera, has been introduced in 2003 for both children and adults living with ADHD. Because it also contains some antidepressant properties, it may improve and regulate mood. However, the results are not as immediate and may not be noticeable for several weeks.

It should also be noted that there is a movement dating as far back as the 1970s among some clinical psychologists who prefer a natural, more holistic approach to treating ADHD. Rather than prescribing what is seen as addictive psychiatric drugs, some clinicians prefer to pursue dietary changes and herbal remedies that include Ginkgo Biloba and Green Oats, also called Avina Sativa. Focus ADHD, a non-addictive alternative treatment used to help "control, calm and soothe" ADHD sufferers is one such remedy. The risks are non-existent and there are no harsh side effects as with prescription psychiatric drugs.

Behavior modification combined with medication appears to some mental health professionals to be the most beneficial treatment option with the lowest risk. Behavior treatments can be adjusted to reduce the time spent on shaping and reinforcing behavior and the dose of medication can be reduced when on a combined treatment program.

Their treating physician should check individuals living with ADHD regularly. The doctor may determine that medication is no longer necessary or can be reduced or combined with another treatment method. Each individual is different. In some people, ADHD may continue from childhood into adolescence and adulthood and for others, treatment may not be necessary beyond the childhood years. Either way, help is available even for the youngest person living with ADHD.

References

www.myadhd.com/aboutadhd.html, October 30, 2006

www.familydoctor.org/103.xml?printxml, October 30, 2006

www.nativeremedies.com/focus_for_adhd1.shtml, October 30, 2006