How to Cope with ADD/ADHD

Since a lot of more children are being treated for ADD width the stimulant Ritalin also known as (methylphenidate)' there has been a lot of lawsuidts , hearing in congress and medical coverages. Even though they don't want to be in the media, the parents are having to speak out. They try to explain to their families, friends, and school officials about their troubles concerning their children's behaviors.

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or CHADD is a national organization that gives information to families that are affected by ADHD. They sponsor more than 200 chapters that have support groups to help families to vent and let go of those feelings that they can't share with others. Parents are given two hours to air their feelings and listen to others who discuss their spouses that are in denial, and unsupportive teachers. CHADD was started in 1987 by some parents of ADD children in Florida. They now have 22,000 members and 225 chapter in 37 states.In 1997 the disorder was included in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This gave children the right to get special education through public schools. Their goal is to educate the general public as well as the schools about ADHD. They have professional staff on the advisory board. They keep the organization informed on current events related to the disorder. They work closely with the AAP, and the National Institute of Mental Health. The National Institute of Mental Health publishes the quarterly magazine Attention!. Members can get the magazine annually for a cost of $45 per family.

A research study that was done by the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota found out that children with this disorder have far more injuries than children without ADD. A mother of two has both of her children dealing with ADHD. One is 11 and the other is 6. The older was diagnosed at age 5. He broke his arm trying to climb into his brother's crib. He got kicked out of kindergarten after 3 days. He was also put on probation at the next school for hanging out of the window in a second story building.

Many parents are praising CHADD for giving them a place to come and be understood. It is a great relief to have people in your corner who can relate to what you are going through and who don't judge. Instead, they give tips and encouragement.

http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/health/add/addadhd-parent-support-groups/?page=5