ADDHD is a Real Condition

Oct. 16-22, 2011 is Attention Deficit Disorder-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADDHD) Awareness Week. Over the past few years, many articles have been written about ADDHD and many myths still surround this condition. 

Some people believe that ADDHD is a result of poor parenting, diet and motivation. Unfortunately, these misconceptions are prevalent. ADDHD is a real condition. Nearly every mainstream medical, psychological and educational organization concluded that ADDHD is a brain-based medical disorder. These organizations also agree that children with this condition respond to appropriate treatment. 

ADDHD is a common non-discriminatory condition that affects persons of all ages, races and IQ levels. It is estimated that approximately 9.5% of the population has been diagnosed with ADDHD. While boys are twice as likely as girls to have this diagnosis, it is important to realize that it is common in both genders. 

ADDHD is a diagnosis that requires extensive analysis. A person must exhibit symptoms that are excessive, pervasive and persistent. The behaviors often show up in many areas of a person’s life. Currently, there is no single test that conclusively confirms a diagnosis of ADDHD. Clinicians must use a battery of tests to determine if a person has only ADDHD or has the diagnosis in combination with other disorders. People with ADDHD may have other conditions including sleep disorders, depression or anxiety disorders. 

Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment is an essential second step. Often, parents are resistant to administrating medication as part of the treatment regimen. ADDHD is not a benign condition. If ADDHD is left untreated, it can lead to problems succeeding in school and graduating, problems in relationships, more driving citations and accidents, eating disorders and legal problems. Untreated, ADDHD can be a costly medical condition. While medication is a common treatment option, many others exists including “brain games,” a form of biofeedback and counseling. Each person responds to treatment differently and must work to find the best treatment option for them. Diagnosis and treatment can change a person’s life and increase the productivity of the person. Even with biofeedback, counseling or medication, many students with ADDHD will require educational support.   

Understanding ADDHD and its impact is important. Organizations such as Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (CHADD) provide information and resources. Children often struggle with understanding the complexities of this disorder and may suffer with negative self esteem. Education and understanding may help a child comprehend the complexities of this condition. 

In the video, “What do I say?” Dr. Timothy Verduin, the Clinical Director of the Institute for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity and Behavior Disorders and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the NYU School of Medicine, provides a great way to explain ADDHD to children. Darlington School’s Teaching and Learning Center can provide you with more information about ADDHD or other conditions that impact learning.