Top Ten ADHD Articles of 2008

I was diagnosed with ADHD at 27 years old. Since then, I have spent many hours researching this condition. I have searched the internet for articles, books, publications, and blogs. I have found many great resources and learn a lot about how my mind works. I have found many beneficial articles on Associated Content. These are the top ten ADHD articles, published on Associated Content during 2008.

David Frantz wrote Book Review: The Edison Gene (ADHD) ADHD and the Gift of the Hunter Child. The Edison Gene was written by Thomas Hartmann in 2003. Thomas Hartmann writes this book from the thesis that ADHD is not a medical condition. Rather, ADHD is a set of genetic behavior and tendencies that were necessary, in the past. ADHD characteristics were actually necessary to the success of hunter/gatherers. Genetics has not changed to make ADHD a medical condition. Society has changed. I found this article and book very helpful. I would recommend both for anyone with ADHD.

Michelle M. Guilbeau-Sheppard wrote Helpful Back-To-School Tips for ADHD Children: 10 Tips for ADHD Students. I began reading this article because of the title. My ADHD caused many problems during my early school years. Some of these, I am still feeling in college. Back then, they did not recognize ADHD as they do now. Micelle lists some very simple but very effective ways to assist children with ADHD in school. I would recommend this article to anyone.

Edie Dykeman wrote ADHD and the Work Environment: How Co-Workers and the ADHD Employee Can Cohabitate in the Work Place. I usually shy away from ADHD articles that were written by people without ADHD. Too often, I find they miss regurgitate general information that adds very little the conversation. Edie's article does fall into this category, however, she presents it in a way that is easy to read and understand. Edie's article makes for quick reading and provides very good tips for people with and without ADHD.

Jillita Horton wrote Kids and ADHD Medications: What Doctors Won't Tell You. I did not include this article because it is right or contains information. Jillita is neither right nor does her article present information. For instance, Jillita states "Generations ago, parents raised kids without ADHD medications. So what happened?" I would refer you back to David Frantz's review of The Edison Gene. Jillita also asserts that ADHD was created by drug companies to sell medication. Ratey wrote that stimulants were first used for ADHD in the early 20^th century. Long before large drug companies existed. I included this article for one reason; it embodies the misunderstanding of ADHD. I myself believed the same way Jillita does, until I was diagnosed. How I was convinced and received my diagnosis is another story. Regardless, ADHD does exist. However, it does not have to be the debilitating condition that some would lead you to believe. Again, a topic for another post. If you want more misunderstandings and ignorant, uneducated rantings, read Jillita's article Don't Let ADHD Symptom checklists Trick You. While not factual, both her articles are entertaining.

Lisa Bele wrote Symptoms of ADHD: How to Know If Your child Could Have ADD/ADHD. Lisa takes a few ADHD symptoms and explains what makes them ADHD symptoms and ways parents can help. I specifically liked this article because it recommends seeking a medical diagnosis. ADHD is a set of behaviors that show up in many people. Not surprising since ADHD is based in genetics. The symptoms are just worse with ADHD and can interfere with everyday life. It is crucial that diagnosis be made only by a qualified and experienced mental health professional.

Carly Hart wrote Adult ADHD: Why Adults Should Seek Treatment. It is clear Carly does not have ADHD; however, she does approach the subject factually and presents great information. Carly explains the economic ramifications and potential treatment options. Carly also makes a great point, probably without knowing it. Carly states, "Adult ADHD is quite similar to the childhood version..." In fact, doctors have proven that ADHD is genetic and does not end at Adulthood. Children may learn coping skills and hide the symptoms better but ADHD symptoms do not disappear. If ADHD do completely disappear, the child was probably misdiagnosed in the first place.

Lauren Vork wrote Adult ADHD and Love: Tips for Good Relationships. ADHD has a massive effect on relationships. It was the primary catalyst for my divorce. Vork does a good job of outlining potential relationship pitfalls and ways to avoid them. Early on, Vork states that she has ADHD and is dating someone with ADHD. Vork calls it ADD but that is because ADD and ADHD, were only recently combined into one by psychiatrists. Her observations and recommendations would be beneficial to relationships with and without ADHD.

Carla Kirkland wrote Top-Notch Hiring Choice: ADHD Adults: A Suggestive Guide for Employers. Jillita Horton (see earlier article) needs to read this one. Kirkland never specifically states that she has ADHD. If she does not than her, spouse or significant other must. Carla's article does a very nice job of outlining the benefits adults with ADHD can bring to the table. I especially liked her statement, "Your HA (hyperactive adult) associate, if they do have a college degree, will probably have earned over 200 credit hours in four different areas of expertise." This statement embodies ADHD. My learning style and thirst for knowledge is a product of ADHD. My success is a product of my learning style. Interested, Look for my personal story in a future article.

Mike Perry wrote Dealing with Adult ADD. Recently, Mike was diagnosed with ADHD. I really enjoyed his article because it parallels my own story. Like many with ADHD, Mike is searching for information and answers. He outlines ADHD basic symptoms, effects, and coping mechanisms. Mike includes enough personal details to draw the readers' attention. I highly recommend this article. I am sure we will see more great articles from Mike.

Doctors, psychiatrists, and the public are learning more about ADHD. As with many things, education is the key to understanding. We with ADHD must be willing to share our experiences and strive daily to learn more and perform better. More and more people with ADHD are succeeding and joining the ranks of great Americans like Bill Gates, Will Smith, and Ty Pennington. Words often do little to dispel myths and prejudice, yes Jillita Horton I am looking at you, but actions and success will prove that ADHD is not a condition but a gift.