The facts about ADHD are not as well known as the myths about the disorder are. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at this very common disorder and trying to separate the fact from the fiction.
1. Fact: ADHD is hereditary
Studies have shown time and time again that ADHD runs in families. A family with more than one child is likely to find that more than one of the children will be diagnosed with ADHD. Also, children that are diagnosed with ADHD are likely to have at least one parent or other close relative with the disorder. Twins are even more likely to both be diagnosed if one twin is.
2. Myth: ADHD is caused through poor parenting
Because ADHD is a biological disorder that affects the frontal lobes of the brain (as can be clearly seen in CAT and MRI scans), parenting skills, or a lack of parenting skills, are not responsible for causing Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder in children. Unfortunately, many parents are left feeling as though they are somehow responsible for the fact that their child (or children) has been diagnosed with this disorder.
3. Fact: ADHD is real
We know that this is a legitimate disorder thanks in large part to the advancements that have been made in science and technology. CAT and MRI scans show a noticeable difference between the brains of a child who has the disorder and a child who does not have the disorder.
4. Myth: ADHD is a fake disorder conjured up by unscrupulous mental health specialists and profit-hungry pharmaceutical companies
Children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder display normal behavior in a much more intense and severe way. While it is perfectly normal for children to run around and play boisterously some of the time, the ADHD child will do so excessively and when it is not appropriate to do so. A child without the disorder can be rambunctious on the school playground but calm and attentive in the classroom environment. The ADHD child will continue to be disruptive and inattentive even when they are expected to be.
5. Fact: ADHD is treatable
Treatment usually comprises medications and therapy however there are more professionals and parents today who prefer to forgo medications in favor of alternative treatment options. Many alternative treatments are proving to be very beneficial and some even produce apparently permanent improvements even when they are discontinued. When it comes to using apparently natural remedies one needs to err on the side of caution, however. Just because something is natural is no guarantee that it is completely safe. Before you embark on a treatment program be sure to discuss this with your child’s mental health professional, especially if they are currently taking ADHD medications.
6. Myth: ADHD is a new disorder affecting modern children
In fact, we have known about ADHD for many decades, since the early 1900s. Prior to that there were no diagnostic criteria to use in order to diagnose the disorder. Nevertheless, using the diagnostic criteria we have today, coupled with the writings and info on many famous and influential people of the past, it is safe to assume that the disorder affected many well-known people in history even prior to 1900. For instance, Albert Einstein is a very well known ADHD possibility, as is Christopher Columbus and Abe Lincoln among others.
7. Fact: ADHD drugs are harmful
We have all heard about the controversy surrounding ADHD medications like Ritalin. The facts about ADHD include the side effects that drugs like Ritalin are known to produce in many children. While these drugs are approved by the FDA, they also carry very strong warnings on the labels, called the black box warning. This indicates the fact that the drug concerned is a dangerous drug and must be taken under strict adult supervision at all times. Some children will sell their ADHD medications to other kids that they know. This is because ADHD medications are used by students at college to lose weight and to stay awake while they cram for exams. Other kids are embarrassed, not wanting their peers to know that they have to take ADHD drugs. Extended release medications are now available that will ensure that your child will have the benefit of the drug throughout the day and not need to take a dose while at school. buy vyvanse 30 mg