adhd
Question and Answer
What kind of treatment is available for ADD/ADHD?
Treatment involves a range of factors, beginning with education. The adult with ADD is often greatly relieved to learn that he or she has an identifiable, treatable condition. Dr. Robert Reid from the University of Nebraska calls it the "label of forgiveness." He said, "The kid's problems are not his parents' fault, not the teacher's fault, not the kid's fault."1 That is good news to the person who has been told all his life that he's dumb, stupid, lazy, obnoxious and disruptive.
The first step in rebuilding the self-concept of an adult, then, is to get an understanding of the forces operating within. My advice to that individual and to his or her family is to read, read, read! One helpful book for laymen is Driven To Distraction, by Edward Hallowell, M.D., and John Ratey, M.D. An excellent set of cassette tapes by these authors is also available. Another well-written book by a Christian psychologist is entitled The Attention Deficit Child, by Grant Martin, Ph.D.2
The second step is to teach the ADD person, especially the adult, to minimize his or her distractibility and impulsivity. They can learn to use "to-do lists," daily calendars, schedules and written plans. "It ain't easy," as they say, but it can be done. The third step is to secure the assistance of what Hallowell and Ratey call "a coach." A knowledgeable friend is needed to stand nearby with a whistle — offering encouragement, pointing out mistakes, teaching and modifying behavior. If a wise instructor can teach a novice to play tennis or golf, a caring coach can help a person with ADD learn to behave in more successful ways.
In regard to children, a knowledgeable professional is needed to advise and encourage parents who are often bewildered and frustrated by behavior they neither control nor understand. With this in mind, some ADD/ADHD management techniques that follow a purely behavioral strategy have shown promise in early research. If you'd like to learn more, talk to a professional who is familiar with these approaches. Finally, there are the considerable benefits to the use of prescription drugs for both children and adults. According to studies, anywhere from 70 percent to as much as 95 percent of ADD patients benefit from appropriate medication.3 Surprisingly, certain stimulants are often effective in helping ADD children — including those who are hyperactive. No one knows exactly how they work, but they probably affect the electrochemical processes in frontal lobes of the brain that regulate behavior. The most commonly prescribed drugs are Ritalin, Dexedrine and Adderall. In some instances, these substances have a remarkably positive effect.4
Background Information
Treatment of AD/HD
A comprehensive approach to treating AD/HD.
Types of Learning Difficulties
If you suspect your child may have a learning disability, parents need to be aware of the symptoms that prevent learning at school.
Characteristics and Causes of Attention Deficit Disorders
Attention disorders may be one of the most prevalent problems of childhood.
Questions and Answers
My daughter has some of the symptoms of ADD, but she is a very quiet child. Are some ADD kids withdrawn and sedate?
Answer
My six-year-old son is beginning to have learning problems in school because he can't stay in his seat and concentrate on his lessons. What should I do?
Answer
Does ADD go away as children grow up?
Answer
We have a 5-year-old son who has been diagnosed with ADD. He is really difficult to handle, and I have no idea how to manage him.
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
A Reason to Hope
Poor grades at school, inattentiveness and a failure to complete tasks might have a cause you haven't thought of.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Related Topics
Transitions: Having a Baby, Preparing for Adolescence
Life Pressures: Working Moms, Stay-At-Home Moms, Time for Family
Relationships: Parents and Adult Children, Blended Families
