ADD is the most overdiagnosed disorder.

Seems like everyone has ADD now. Doctors are so quick to diagnose someone with ADD, even if no signs of ADD are present. We are becomming a society with children who are controlled by drugs. This is terrible, children need to learn to control themselves without drugs. That drugged up kid on adderal or what ever ADD medication isn't really your child, it is a body being controlled by pills.

Just got done watching a news special so thought I'd drop my .02 cents

um, its not even called ADD at all anymore.

it is always ADHD w/ severe or slight hyperactivity.

some people NEED those "drugs" as they have chemical imbalance in their brains. I, for one, need it. I am 19 years old. An excellent student, president of a campus organization, management in a retail store, etc. i do NOT have ANY behaviour problems or anything, but my attention span is horrible. I notice a major difference in my ability to pay attention and take notes, etc in school when on my medication.

stop making blanket statements.

ADD is the most overdiagnosed disorder.

Seems like everyone has ADD now. Doctors are so quick to diagnose someone with ADD, even if no signs of ADD are present. We are becomming a society with children who are controlled by drugs. This is terrible, children need to learn to control themselves without drugs. That drudged up kid on adderal or what ever ADD medication isn't really your child, it is a body being controlled by pills.

Just got done watching a news special so thought I'd drop my .02 cents
I agree it is an overdiagnosed disorder and lots of teachers want the kids on drugs some who dont even need it. There is a test that you can actually do that my brother took to show if you have it or not. My brother has ADD but isnt on medication at all and is doing very well handling it on his own and my family is very proud of him. Some people do need medication though I just wish doctors wouldnt diagnose everyone as having it when lots of them probably dont. :dunno It's a really big topic to talk about but this is just my opinion which I typed out really quick and didnt get really into it so please dont get upset with me. :D

As a middle child I feel the natural inclination to mediate...
Of course there is always some validation to diagnoses. However, I also agree that it is over diagnosed in children now-a-days. From what I've learned talking to doctors, teachers, parents, and friends with ADHD psychologists and psychiatrists are working together to promote one another, hence the tendency to refer a child to drugs. It's sad. We lose sight of those truely in need.

stop making blanket statements.

understood.

I just don't believe in medicating the problem. One of my friends brothers was put on ridalin (sp?) as a child for his and not only did it make him too complacent, It was only a temporary fix.

My fiancee is supposedly supposed to have ADHD (diagnosed as a kid) but he won't take medication and according to him, he has a hard time w/ keeping organized at work, but he has a "system" to keep himself in check.

I have mixed feelings.

I know that ADHD is a very real thing and drugs may help that. With that said, people have had this problem for years and years... and years and didn't have drugs. So does that mean people are better off now than they would have been? Probably so... some of them. BUT, I don't believe that EVERY person who is on the medication NEEDS to be on it. Meciation in general has become a quick fix in our society. I worked in cardiac rehab and saw how many drugs some of those cardiac patients were on. After they dedicated time to exercise and eating healthy they were able to drop many of those medications. I have also seen the same thing time and time again when just personal training clients.. they can go off the meds bc we found a natural way to help them with the problem. Obviously I saying exercise is the answer for ADHD, but you get my point. Maybe the natural way for that with children is to have a therapist work through mental exercises to help teach children how to behave, focus, etc. Might work for some... not everyone, but it would help weed out who does not need to be medicated.

I personally, don't believe in taking (regularly taken) medication unless it is absolutely needed. I think there should be a very detailed amd unified system for deciding if someone NEEDS to be on medication. Clearly some should and it helps them have a more productive life. But do all need it? No Way!!

:myop

understood.

I just don't believe in medicating the problem. One of my friends brothers was put on ridalin (sp?) as a child for his and not only did it make him too complacent, It was only a temporary fix.

I agree with the thought that ADHD/ADD is overdiagnosed and any child that they don't want to deal with is referred for medication BUT there are people who DO need it.

What's your solution? How do you suppose we "fix" them without medication"

I have two children who are diagnosed with ADHD. They were both diagnosed - seperately- after extensive testing. They are both on medication, very low doses, during school hours so that they can function effectively. I didn't just walk into the doctors office and say "give my kid some drugs".

The process and decision was very VERY thought out and discussed. The reason being is that my now 16 year old came to me at 9 on a VERY high dose of ritalin because they didn't want to deal with him. He was on almost the max dose for an adult. We were able to get him off of it but it did have a lasting impression on me. I fought putting my other two children on meds for this very reason. I didn't want them to be "just a statistic". I didn't want to medicate them "just because". I didn't want to add another med to my one sons already long list of meds.

The problem is that some of these kids really DO need the help that the medication provides. My 8 year old started last year in 2nd grade reading at a K level. It took him 3 years to learn his phonetic sounds. He struggled with paying attention. He couldn't sit down at his desk and do his work. He couldn't sit down in the group and listen. He tried. He would say that he wanted to but it was to hard. He wasn't functioning well with his peers. We made the decision to put him on a very low dose of ritalin and it made a HUGE difference. He ended the school year reading at a third grade level. He would sit for hours and draw, color, read books, participate in class, etc. He made friends. His self esteem went up. When he's home we don't give him the meds but at school, to function with his peers he needs it.

My 5 year old was just the opposite. He picked everything up quickly but he has an aggressive tendency and he makes rash decisions without thinking. He would walk over and hit a child because he wanted to play with them because it's the first thing that came into his head. He wouldn't stop and think about it. The kids in preschool didn't like him. One of the teachers didn't like him. He was not a pleasant child to be around most of the time. We put him on a low dose of ritalin to help him slow down and curb his aggression. He functions better and can function normally with his peers.

Do I think that it should be used as a crutch or a permanent solution - no, not at all. But it can be used as a tool. We use it so that our children have the ability to see what life is like "outside of their world". We have the ability to teach them coping skills and give them tools to use while they aren't on their meds. One day I think that they will be medication free but we have to be able to equip them with the skills and tools for them to be able to function normally off of their meds.

All I know is steak tastes better when I take my steak taste better pill.

All I know is steak tastes better when I take my steak taste better pill.
:lol Hmmm might have to try that pill :D

All I know is steak tastes better when I take my steak taste better pill.

What is that supposed to mean?

My nephew (giovanni's side).. has a mood disorder. One second he is happy, the next he is looking like he is gunna cry, the next he is shy and grumpy- the next he is outgoing and hyperactive. He was taken to the doctors and they diagnosed him with ADD. He is 7.. and he dosn't have ADD. I can just tell- but hmm.. his mum is swearing by what the doctor said, and needless to say- his moods havn't changed in the slightest- all that has happened with the medication is that he has lost weight.

So i definately agree with you. Especially with child mood disorders. They think instantly that because the child has a mood disorder- its ADD. Ah thats bullshit. Total bullshit. Hopefully one day something may change and they may diagnose the child properly.

Quote:
Originally Posted by mara_jade81
All I know is steak tastes better when I take my steak taste better pill.


What is that supposed to mean?

Lol i know what she means but i have a blank into putting it in words. Yes my sugar pill dosn't taste like sugar- it tastes like my caffeine addiction is going away now.

I was just reading a book called HOME ALONE AMERICA , its about why there are so many children on medication these days. It pretty much shows how many more children are put in daycares and not getting one on one care,thats just one point they made,Im not saying I agree or disagree Im just saying it made since as to why now so many kids are having proublems and it kind of makes because there are more and more single parnt homes and homes where both parnts work.

It's a line from a song... I have a link to a music video of it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTSkWnKs9rM

Basically saying people are over medicated. A pill for everything.

Gabe will likely be on meds soon. He has been through all the testing and everything. But no one will write anything down till he starts school. As of right now, he has been dx with PTSD from his treatments. Conditionally dx with ADHD and ODD. I have already done all my research on meds and talked with his ped. He is very limited on what he can take, due the damage to his remaining kidney. But for me, if it means that he will get more out of school being medicated, i am all for it. yes, he is being taught methods to try and deal with it on his own, but they arent working. so if that means that i have to have him on medication, so be it. till he can learn ways to deal with issues that he is having.

I agree that it is an overdiagnosed condition, BUT some people do legitimately have ADD/ADHD, my mom and sister, for example. My mom went through the first 52 years of her life with stuttering and anxiety problems, was diagnosed with adult ADD last December, and hasn't stuttered and has been much more calm and organized since she started on just a little bit of Stratera everyday. ADD is a real condition - not everyone should be diagnosed with it or on medication for it, but it really does help those who have it to understand why they are the way they are - for 52 years my mom just wanted to feel like a normal person. Finally she does and I couldn't be happier for her. :D

My daughter has ADHD and does take meds for it.She was put on meds this year and this was after 2 years of trying everything else.It wasnot an easy decision to make for our family.School was getting harder and not because of her ability to do the work but because of her ability to focus.SHe now takes a low dose time release med.and her school work has improved.There are people in this world who really do have this and there are many options for meds now.So just because that med didn't work for your friend could just meen it was the wrong med.

My stepson was just now told that he has ADHD. It took him to go to an outside doc. to be told this. He is suppose to be on meds. but thats another subject. Anyways. when he was taking his meds he was a different person. would listen and not start fights with his dad or I. Honestly I think its very hard on kids with ADHD that have parents divorced. Im one of those people. Its more stress on them and so forth.

Do I think that it should be used as a crutch or a permanent solution - no, not at all. But it can be used as a tool. We use it so that our children have the ability to see what life is like "outside of their world". We have the ability to teach them coping skills and give them tools to use while they aren't on their meds. One day I think that they will be medication free but we have to be able to equip them with the skills and tools for them to be able to function normally off of their meds.

If everyone had this level of thinking about it, we wouldn't be believing it is overdiagnosed. Yes, absolutely some people need it, but I think more and more it is being used as a way to control natural child outbursts/behavior that could be controlled by in other ways. I was a very hyper kid - i had to stay after school almost every day in K-2 because i was always talking or running around. Never went on meds, i had consequences to my behavior and after perserverance by both my parents and teachers, i improved. I was a case that now would probably be diagnosed as ADHD but I don't think i have it, and if i do it's used to my advantage.

I'm no expert, but I've worked with a number of children with a number of disabilities on a number of medications. For some kids, I thank god they have medical help. For others, I've felt sad because I feel as though I am missing their true personality. I guess it depends on the kid, the doctor and the parent. those of you who are/know of people on meds for ADHD, have you ever found meds to stifle creativity or an individual personality?

my little sister was on medication and she was attentive, etc. BUT my parents took her off of them. she is just a kid, and being hyper and not paying attention is OK at that age.

for me though, i am on a fairly low dose. I am still me, just with a better attention span

If everyone had this level of thinking about it, we wouldn't be believing it is overdiagnosed. Yes, absolutely some people need it, but I think more and more it is being used as a way to control natural child outbursts/behavior that could be controlled by in other ways. I was a very hyper kid - i had to stay after school almost every day in K-2 because i was always talking or running around. Never went on meds, i had consequences to my behavior and after perserverance by both my parents and teachers, i improved. I was a case that now would probably be diagnosed as ADHD but I don't think i have it, and if i do it's used to my advantage.


I absolutely agree with you. I do believe there are real disorders and SOME people really do need a form of therapy/help/medication, etc. However, these days, it seems like everyone has some sort of "disorder" that's more often than not, used as an excuse for unexcusable or normal behavior. Kids that haven't been taught how to behave properly or are sometimes just being a KID are being labeled as having ADHD. Murderers are getting out of sentencing because they have "PPD". I do know these disorders exist, but I KNOW they are very seriously overdiagnosed. I think it's sad that there is a pill for everything these days. People don't get to the root of the problem and figure out WHY they feel or act the way they do and how they can work on fixing it or modifying their behavior. Just pop a pill and everything is all better.

no doubt there are kids that NEED the medication to function properly in a day-to-day setting. my MIL teaches what they deem the "inclusion" class (the special ed kids who are being integrated into a reg. classroom) and she has had many students in there who really DO NEED the medications they are on. however many of my friends throughout high school and even now in college are being diagnosed with ADD/ADHD. many of these kids (i am strictly talking about the people i know) get the ritalin and adderrall and sell it or snort it to study. THE SELLING OF ADD/ADHD DRUGS IS A MAJOR PROBLEM. if we didn't overdiagnose add/adhd as much then many people wouldn't even be aware of the "drug" effects. in '04 on facebook there was a group called the ADD-oers group which was basically bragging that they sold their medications to those without add/adhd.

i believe there is a way for people with add/adhd to control their problems/side effects, just like there are ways for diabetics to control their problems/side effects without drugs. put a system in check (someone else said it on here) to make sure things get done. put sticky notes all over the place to remind you. i actually had a friend once that did this. it was weird walking into their house. i opened the fridge up and it had notes in there saying remember to put milk back here, etc etc. only in the most extreme instances should a child be put on medication and i do not believe for one second that a 2nd grader who has a high activity level is add/adhd.
my niece comes from two parents who graduated with honors and the highest gpa in their college classes ('ole miss too). the dad also graduated with honors and top of his class from dental school. my niece is very very smart and her mind doesn't stay engaged with AGE APPROPRIATE activities. she gets bored watching t.v. shows geard towards a 4 year old. this is going to cause he problems in school because she is already far ahead of her pre-K class. she doesn't have add/adhd she's just smart. i think children need to be tested to see if they are bored in their grade level first then have testing proceed to other things.

This subject is touchy for me because teachers in CA (go figure) :quote diagnosed :quote him as having ADD. I took him to his pediatrician and the first thing out of the pediatrician's mouth was, "Another one?" The doctor went on to tell me that she had seen so many recent cases coming in.

B got tested and it showed that he did not have ADD. I went to the school office the next day and practically threw the test results in their face. Thinking about it makes my blood boil because I feel that teachers are too quick to say a child has ADD because they (the teachers) cannot control the classroom. That's my personal opinion (not meant to insult anyone).

Ritalin has been likened to cocaine. Ritalin is a powerful stimulant that increases alertness and productivity. Ritalin and cocaine also look and act the same. Both have a similar chemical structure, and both increase dopamine levels in the brain. They do this by blocking a dopamine transporter protein responsible for the reuptake of dopamine at the synapse.

If a child or adult has been diagnosed has being ADD/ADHD, then I can understand the need to take ritalin. My beef is about innocent kids like B who don't have it and are just normal active full of energy kids. Let kids be kids is all I'm saying :mumble

well i know that teachers to my knowledge are not allowed to tell a parent that their child has ADD or ADHD because of that very reason. they could be totally wrong. they might could make a suggestion to the parents to have their child tested. I agree that it has been overdiagnosed and I also agree that their are kids that have it and need the proper medication or dosage and I do agree that some kids can learn to compensate without having to take medication but sometimes along with ADD or ADHD some kids will have learning disorders as well and those are the kids that need extra help. there are ways to show a child who has properly been diagnosed with this how to function in life and not be called lazy. but i do not think the kids should use that as a crutch to not do stuff. my older son has it and it has been a hard time for him. i didnt want to keep him on the meds and took him off when he started middle school. i didnt know what the long term effects were and i didnt want to find out either so we made the decision to take him off of the meds but he still struggled in school due to his learning differences. kids and the adults who find out that they have this can learn how to compensate without meds. and you cant just catch this as an adult either. you have had to have had it before the age of 7. maybe it may not show up until you are an adult but from what i learned in the past its not something you just come down with either.

my niece is very very smart and her mind doesn't stay engaged with AGE APPROPRIATE activities. she gets bored watching t.v. shows geard towards a 4 year old. this is going to cause he problems in school because she is already far ahead of her pre-K class. she doesn't have add/adhd she's just smart. i think children need to be tested to see if they are bored in their grade level first then have testing proceed to other things.

There was a test for cases just like this one, which checked the child for "Fluid Intelligence". I'm not sure if it's even called that anymore, or if the test is still used. It has been proven over and over that boredom is the cause of most ADD/ADHD cases. Every one of us has sat in a lecture-style classroom, and every one of us fidgeted, doodled, day drempt and/or flat out ignored the teacher. This isn't "proof" that we have some psychological disorder that needs medication - it means we're human, with different levels of alertness.

Those who take, know someone who take, or used to take medication to "improve your attention" span are missing the point entirely. Of COURSE the drug improved your attention span - that doesn't mean you have ADD/ADHD. It means you took a drug (specifically designed) to combat a percieved problem. Just because it worked doesn't mean you have the problem. If I have a headache, tell myself I have a brain tumor and take a Motrin that cures the headache, does Motrin cure cancer? Essentially, don't use the argument "The doctor made me take a pill that solved the problem, so I must have the problem." Doctors, like anyone else in a capitalist society, are in it for the money to some extent.

The "Average Norm" isn't a guideline, it's a reference. Doctors and pill-makers are making a KILLING on your fears and expectations. I can't think of a single day that I dont' compare my son to another child. I'm not willing to force pills down my son's throat because someone else's child watches Blue's Clues longer than mine. This can all be associated to the competitive nature of parents, the dream of a happy and successful child and a media-inspired fear.

Most of us wouldn't dare stop our children from taking naps prior to age 6 or so. We know that their brain is working triple overtime and the nap is absolutely mandatory - it stops the brain from getting MORE new material and it works out what was just learned. This is absolutely critical in the development. While the need for a nap goes away (your brain learns to discard most of what it gathers as you age). To me, taking an "attention" pill is identical to taking away the nap. It's forcing to brain to do something it's trying NOT to do.

Something to think about.

um, its not even called ADD at all anymore.

it is always ADHD w/ severe or slight hyperactivity.



Yes is called ADD. ADD and ADHD are completley different.

Yes is called ADD. ADD and ADHD are completley different.
:agree

I will agree that it's over diagnosed....but only in the reason that some doctors are quick to say it's that rather than try to find out the real problem. Case in point.....2 friends, neither knew each other, kids never went to the same schools..matter of fact, very large age difference. One friends daughter was diagnosed as severe adhd for many years until with NO help from medication...finally looked else where for help and they came to find that she was severly depressed with a bipolar disorder. Second friend...both her sons where diagnosed with add and put on meds....granted they may have changed a bit. but the truth was that they were just normal boys of their age group...did not need any medications and should never have been diagnosed with add...just needed firmer discipline.
I do think that there are people out there...kids and adults who do have add or adhd and do need medication, but I also think that some doctors are just too quick to diagnose and wrongly put people on medication because they really don't want to take the time to get to the real problem.

i agree with that too judy. teachers dont want to deal with the kids behavior in school and the parents dont want to deal with the kids behavior at home so thats why some of these kids that get diagnosed with it and really shouldnt be. there is a certain criteria they have to meet first and it has to be before the age of 7 to be properly diagnosed with it. alot of kids can have some of the symptoms but they have to have a certain number of them to even be considered having ADD or ADHD. sometimes kids can get diagnosed with ADD or ADHD and it turns out they have something completely different but yet the symptoms are sometimes the same. Doctors really need to be careful how they are diagnosing these kids.

ADD and ADHD are over diagnosed, but not as much as they used to be. We went through a phase where people didn't know a lot about these 2 disorders, so doctors, teachers, and parents were quick to slap this label on children if they even slightly fit the profile. Now that we know more about it, and special education classrooms were over flowing with "ADD kids", people are more careful before they diagnose.

What some people need to realize, is people really do have ADD, and Autism, and ADHD. And some people really do need medication to help them. Just like some people are quick to diagnose, others are quick to medicate. Medication isn't always going to help, but for some it does. Every child with one of these disorders is completly different from the next. It's hard to say EVERY child with ADD has symptoms 1-5, because the next kid may only have 3. A lot of learning disorders are that way.

While there are people that do need the meds. I believe ADD/ADHD cases are overdiagnosed.

Breanna was 2 when the drs. were going to refer her to a behavioral psychologist. I was told before they put the referral in that they would automatically want her on ritalin. I refused the medication but said I had no problem with the referral. Once I refused the meds. I no longer got the referral. If there were tests done that said she had ADD/ADHD and NEEDED the meds. I would have had no problem with putting her on them. But at 2 with no tests to prove her having ADD/ADHD and needing the meds. I felt it was best to explore other ways to help her behavioral problems. I am in the process of completely changing the way I discipline her (I used to spank and saw how aggressive, among other things, she was getting to be). I say in the process cause it is a long road and I'm getting better each day. I also watch her diet and how much tv she is watching (not the tv causes ADD/ADHD but that while watching it she isn't burning off energy, it is just building causing her to get more and more hyper). So for us I would have medicated her without her needing it.

I just believe other routes should be tested before putting a child, or anyone for that matter, on meds. And I also believe tests should be done proving that the child does indeed have ADD/ADHD before putting a child on meds.

JMHO

My nephew was 3 and they wanted him on medication (many years ago) But my SIL and brother refused. They instead changed his diet, cut out almost all sugar like juice, koolaid etc and she said that things improved 10 fold.

I also believe there are lots of other routes. Sure maybe SOME kids do need meds. But I am willing to bet alot less then what alot of Dr's think

I believe if a child isnt acting out in a way that could harm himself and others, there's ZERO reason to medicate them. You are damaging their little bodies with medications. Do you have any clue what doses of any medications at all could do you to your liver, kidney? Not to mention how it is making your brain need it.

I believe it's not only the doctors misdiagnosing the kiddos but the parents as well. I've said it once, I've said it a million times... Parents do not get as involved as they should. If you engage yourself in what your child is engaged in... You'd be shocked how much longer they will tolerate it.

If parents were just more active in their children's lives instead of slapping them in front of a TV and shoving pills down their throats, our society would be a lot better. Problem is young girls having babies, and all of these older women having them. Oy.

have you ever had to raise a child yet that has correctly been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD yet?

Problem is young girls having babies, and all of these older women having them. Oy.

By 'young girls' what age do you mean? 15, 16, 17? Because if those are the ages you are implying then I disagree with you. Our grandmothers and greatgrandmothers had many of our ancestors at very young ages and I don't believe ADD or ADHD was a problem back then. If you are saying that they are not caring for their children because they are too 'old' or too 'young' then I think, once again, you are making a blanket statement. :no

um, its not even called ADD at all anymore.

it is always ADHD w/ severe or slight hyperactivity.

some people NEED those "drugs" as they have chemical imbalance in their brains. I, for one, need it. I am 19 years old. An excellent student, president of a campus organization, management in a retail store, etc. i do NOT have ANY behaviour problems or anything, but my attention span is horrible. I notice a major difference in my ability to pay attention and take notes, etc in school when on my medication.

stop making blanket statements.

ADD is still a diagnoses.

ADD and ADHD, I also feel is overdiagnosed. I have seen my nephew be diagnosed with it over and over when in fact he has aspgergers syndrom. And I also believe some kids have behavioral issues not because they have a chemical disorder but because they are not disciplined. Yes some people really do have it, but not near as many as they diagnose.

have you ever had to raise a child yet that has correctly been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD yet?

yes?

.. a child who is probably borderline to mild adhd. He can't focus on one thing too long. That or he is an average 7 yr old boy who is bored because the people he has to play with are 4 or 1

Who knows.

Got him hellbent on Sports and that's how he spends his nice days. Tossing his Baseball, or slapping his Hockey puck around the yard. We include Sports in his Homework and School work and he does remarkably.

Yes is called ADD. ADD and ADHD are completley different.


:yes

Problem is young girls having babies, and all of these older women having them. Oy.
So....What is YOUR defination of too young or too old?? Im a little curious. I honestly wasn't aware there was a perfect age to have kids. Just that 2 people wanted to have kids no matter what their age. Yes. there are bad parents. But yes there are good parents. And yes there are teenage pregnancies. ALWAYS have been. As long as people enjoy having sex then there will be underage pregnancies. But thats besides the point. I am just curious what your age definations are

I believe if a child isnt acting out in a way that could harm himself and others, there's ZERO reason to medicate them. You are damaging their little bodies with medications. Do you have any clue what doses of any medications at all could do you to your liver, kidney? Not to mention how it is making your brain need it.

I believe it's not only the doctors misdiagnosing the kiddos but the parents as well. I've said it once, I've said it a million times... Parents do not get as involved as they should. If you engage yourself in what your child is engaged in... You'd be shocked how much longer they will tolerate it.

If parents were just more active in their children's lives instead of slapping them in front of a TV and shoving pills down their throats, our society would be a lot better. Problem is young girls having babies, and all of these older women having them. Oy.

There are people who are right in the socially accepted age who are lousy parents too.....

I grew up fast and ran a household young so I was far more mature than most when i was a teen BUT at 18 my husband and I had a child by choice and I am now 23 with 3 children... I am young but I am an excellent mother. I have very well behaved, happy and intelligent children. That is one blanket statement taken too far.

yes?

.. a child who is probably borderline to mild adhd. He can't focus on one thing too long. That or he is an average 7 yr old boy who is bored because the people he has to play with are 4 or 1

Who knows.

Got him hellbent on Sports and that's how he spends his nice days. Tossing his Baseball, or slapping his Hockey puck around the yard. We include Sports in his Homework and School work and he does remarkably.


well i think its wonderful if you can get his energies channeled like that without having him on any meds. kudos to you for that. but dont make a blanket statement saying that none of these kids should ever be on meds. thats just not possible. there are some kids who really do need it at least in the beginning. like i said in my post we started my oldest son who is now 20 on it when he was 5 and then by the time he got to middle school i really couldnt see where that particular med was doing him to much good probably because he also had some learning problems too so i didnt think the meds were working so we took him off of it. i dont like the thought of kids having to be on meds either but if its truly going to be a help to them and wont harm their bodies then i am for it. but if they can learn to cope with having ADD or ADHD without the meds and can still function in life than that is wonderful.

So....What is YOUR defination of too young or too old?? Im a little curious. I honestly wasn't aware there was a perfect age to have kids. Just that 2 people wanted to have kids no matter what their age. Yes. there are bad parents. But yes there are good parents. And yes there are teenage pregnancies. ALWAYS have been. As long as people enjoy having sex then there will be underage pregnancies. But thats besides the point. I am just curious what your age definations are

age and maturity go hand in hand.

In many cases younger parents tend to not have their stuff together yet, especially teens.

Some are in School, some have no skills, single mothers, have no goals or direction.. Not to mention mental stability and it takes that to handle children on the constant.

I hear people say that all the time that they didn't have a clue about life or being an adult until the mid to late 20's

Granted, That doesn't always hold true. There are those who have kids at 17 years of age and raise them alone and did fine. Obviously it's a given those ones were more mature as well. They obviously had direction, willpower, guidance, etc.. alot of the youth today don't have those things.

Everyone I know who is on medication for ADD legitimately has it and you can tell they have it.

Yes is called ADD. ADD and ADHD are completley different.

2 psychatrists told my mother it is not ADD anymore, it is ADHD with different classifications

age and maturity go hand in hand.

In many cases younger parents tend to not have their stuff together yet, especially teens.

Some are in School, some have no skills, single mothers, have no goals or direction.. Not to mention mental stability and it takes that to handle children on the constant.

I hear people say that all the time that they didn't have a clue about life or being an adult until the mid to late 20's

Granted, That doesn't always hold true. There are those who have kids at 17 years of age and raise them alone and did fine. Obviously it's a given those ones were more mature as well. They obviously had direction, willpower, guidance, etc.. alot of the youth today don't have those things.
But you also said too old...You simply stated that younger and older people are the problem. Like anything else in life you have good and you have bad. Yes you gain maturity with age..SOMETIMES. There are some women my age (nope..not in my 20's) who act like they are in their teens. Just as there are some in their 20's that act older etc. There is more to the issue at hand then younger and older parents. It doesnt matter WHAT the age. The fact is people DO need to take an active role with their kids. You stated in your orginal response that was the problem. I think the problem goes MUCH deeper then that.

I do believe there is a condition. But I do believe it is over diagnosed and overly medicated. There are other ways to treat and I think those methods should be tried first and formost

2 psychatrists told my mother it is not ADD anymore, it is ADHD with different classifications

I haven't heard that. I've gone through 5 years of school and there has always been a distinct difference between the two. :dunno

I haven't heard that. I've gone through 5 years of school and there has always been a distinct difference between the two. :dunno

i could be wrong, that is just what we were told, and i was taught in abnormal psych. of course, if it is rid of as far as a diagnosis it's not as if they'd ever be able to distinguish use of the word, KWIM?

i am whats called an older mother and i wish that i known back then what I know now and I would have done things much differently but there is nothing i can do about it now. i know lots of women who have had children at a young age and they are fine mothers and then i know women who are older and they are also good mothers. so i dont understand what you are getting at. and you said that you dont have kids of your own is that right? but yet you said you have raised a child with ADD or ADHD. or am i confused and you really havent raised a child with ADD or ADHD.

and you said that you dont have kids of your own is that right? but yet you said you have raised a child with ADD or ADHD. or am i confused and you really havent raised a child with ADD or ADHD.

you are correct my friend.

In the polling section here on the website about half hour ago I stated I have no children

edit : (of my own)

However, I have indeed helped raise a child w/ borderline to mild adhd.

well with a borderline child with mild adhd i see your point in not wanting to medicate him or her. but you cant say that about all kids that have it that are more then borderline with it.

well with a borderline child with mild adhd i see your point in not wanting to medicate him or her. but you cant say that about all kids that have it that are more then borderline with it.

i agree. try dealing with my 4 yr old for an hour and we will see how you feel after that. i have researched meds and alternative methods. the alt methods dont work for my son. as for side effects of meds on the body. yes, i do know what they do. we are dealing with kidney and liver issues with my son because of his chemotherapy and radiation treatments. but both the ped and I agree, that Gabe will benefit tremdously from being on low dose meds. my feeling, until you have dealt with a child with severe forms of ADHD, ODD and other behavior issues, you dont know. not all children can be treated without meds. all the kids that i know that are on medication, need it. i have seen them on and off meds, and the difference is amazing!!!

My final thought on this is stated below. Let me just say each opinion that has been stated in this thread is just as good as the next. That being said.

ridalin and other psychotropics given to add/adhd children have been proven to drive the children to suicide

any medication is going to be a temporary fix.. like drinking a beer or smoking a joint to let go for a bit.. but when you sober up, your issues are still there

none of these meds are a cure, nor have the ability to cure.

I don't feel medications are the answer to every problem, again, just my opinion. It's people who believe that they are that keep drug rates so high and drug companies in business.

In prior posts I also made mention of the child I took care of who is probably borderline to mild adhd. Take that child on any given day. He will sit in your house and barely disturb an item. He will never act up when out, It's because his Mother and myself being a helping hand raised him. Not playhouse disney, not nickelodeon. We did. Sitting for hours and playing with him. Using your imagination with them to encourage their growth.

I believe, If you don't spend time with your kids.. hands on throughout the day, your child is going to grow up to be one of two things. ADHD, or a couch potatoe. Which would you prefer?

The user, missinghim wrote on in post #37 Our grandmothers and greatgrandmothers had many of our ancestors at very young ages and I don't believe ADD or ADHD was a problem back then and my response to that is they didn't raise their children in an age of electronics or television either. They did things with their kids.

I'm not trying to be judgemental, by far, I'm just trying to shine some light on the topic overall.

Meds merely cover up the real problems. Make it that much easier for the parents to do.

What age do I mean is too young? Anything under 20. I covered alot of why I feel that way in prior posts. It takes sacrifice. Having a career, not a job.

.
You also said too old :shrug Judging a person soley on their age is just wrong to me :dunno I had my son at 29 and am pregnant again at 31. We started trying for a baby at 19. Would I of made a good mom at 19? Yeah I think so. Do I make a good mom now at 31? Yeah I also think so. It is the person. The WAY they parent, the things they do, how active they are in their childs life etc Not soley the age

You also said too old

Yes, sorry I didn't cover that as well.

40+ year olds having children... If you're a young 40, fine... But at that age do you have time to sit and actually keep up with kiddos?

Just because you dont spend alot of time with your kids during the day doesnt mean they are gonna "get" ADHD you cant get that by the parents not spending time with them. to me that just does not make any sense.

excuse me i am 44 years old and i can keep up with my child just fine. i am a young 44 as many of the ladies on here know me personally and can tell you that i dont look nor act my 44 year old age LOL.. i was 40 when i had my almost 4 year old . I take offense to that remark.

excuse me i am 44 years old and i can keep up with my child just fine. i am a young 44 as many of the ladies on here know me personally and can tell you that i dont look nor act my 44 year old age LOL.. i was 40 when i had my almost 4 year old . I take offense to that remark.

I don't want you taking offense seeing as the highlighted, I noted in my post pertaining 40+ having children.

.. and Kaymara, as to not make a seperate post I stated that there are 17 yr olds (under 20) that do have their stuff together. However, The majority does not hence why I said "anyone under 20" but also saying in my post those select few.

Just because you dont spend alot of time with your kids during the day doesnt mean they are gonna "get" ADHD you cant get that by the parents not spending time with them. to me that just does not make any sense.

You can have ADHD and be non symptomatic.

now that i have never heard of before. how in the world can you have ADHD and not be symptomatic. and i dont think i can believe that. you have to have some kind of symptoms to even be diagnosed with ADHD.

I don't want you taking offense seeing as the highlighted, I noted in my post pertaining 40+ having children.

.. and Kaymara, as to not make a seperate post I stated that there are 17 yr olds (under 20) that do have their stuff together. However, The majority does not hence why I said "anyone under 20" but also saying in my post those select few.
well thanks for clarifying. Because you SIMPLY stated in your 1 post that the problem is young people having kids and olde rpeople having kids. ANd left it at that. And quite honestly, that in itself, was looking to have people in kinda a uproar because the way you ORGINALLY stated it was purely implying that age has everything to do with childrens problems. Not parenting, not other factors. Simply age

it has been a proven fact that putting young children on ritalin or any other of the drugs they use to "treat" add/adhd for too long a period is harmful to their helath in the sense that it is a stimulant that causes reduced appetite to such a degree that it can cause a child to not develop properly nor on a timely schedule. now not all children have this side effect happen to them but it is enough of a problem that it is showing up in medical journals and doctors are aware of it. if i had a child who was potentially add/adhd i'd try other solutions rather than medicating because of such a side affect.

I believe it's not only the doctors misdiagnosing the kiddos but the parents as well. I've said it once, I've said it a million times... Parents do not get as involved as they should. If you engage yourself in what your child is engaged in... You'd be shocked how much longer they will tolerate it.

If parents were just more active in their children's lives instead of slapping them in front of a TV and shoving pills down their throats, our society would be a lot better. Problem is young girls having babies, and all of these older women having them.

ridalin and other psychotropics given to add/adhd children have been proven to drive the children to suicide



In prior posts I also made mention of the child I took care of who is probably borderline to mild adhd. Take that child on any given day. He will sit in your house and barely disturb an item. He will never act up when out, It's because his Mother and myself being a helping hand raised him. Not playhouse disney, not nickelodeon. We did. Sitting for hours and playing with him. Using your imagination with them to encourage their growth.

I believe, If you don't spend time with your kids.. hands on throughout the day, your child is going to grow up to be one of two things. ADHD, or a couch potatoe. Which would you prefer?



I was going to respond to this post earlier but I had things that I had to go take care of and was not able to do that. That being said - on to my response.


Your response to this issue is VERY ignorant. To say that my child has ADHD due to my lack of involvement is far from accurate. You see I am probably WAY more involved in my chidlren's lives than the majority. That you would insinuate that because my two children have been diagnosed with ADHD they must sit around all day watching Playhouse Disney, Blue's Clues or whatever other show happens to be on tv is ignorant.

I homeschooled my children for 5 years. I was with them every single day. We did not have cable tv and they were allowed to watch a movie once a week. Occassionally they would watch a 30 minute Veggie Tale video but for the most part our tv was silent. We spent our days learning and playing together.

My 8 year STRUGGLED literally with learning EVERYTHING. He had a hard time learning his colors, his numbers and his shapes. He struggled for 3 LONG years to learn his letter names and the phonetic sounds that they make. He struggled and cried EVERY SINGLE DAY because he was so frustrated. He was frustrated because what he had learned the day before was forgotten. He cried because he couldn't pay attention long enough to learn what I was trying teach him. He tried. He struggled. He would tell me that it was to hard but he wanted to learn. At 6 he was still trying to learn his colors but my 3 year old foster child who came from another country knowing no english learned them faster than he did. HOw do you think that made him feel? Do you think that he wasn't learning because I wasn't willing to teach him? Maybe it's because I didn't spend enough time with him? Or maybe because he couldn't focus long enough to learn it and he couldn't sort out the stimulation that he DIDN'T need?

After 5 years of struggle we chose to put him in school. We felt that maybe someone else teaching him would help. Maybe putting him a different environment, having other kids to challenge him. I felt like I had failed him because he was SO FAR BEHIND. He started 2nd grade reading at a beginning K level. He had learned none of the rules of reading. He could read basic phonetic words. He was put into a reading group and a math group. He struggled still. Kids made fun of him because he couldn't read and could do only simple math. Yes he stood at his desl at all times and did push ups in the back of group but that really was not the issue. His teacher really didn't care that he did it. The problem was he struggled with EVERYTHING that had to do with learning.

We had him tested for learning disabilities thinking he might have a learning disorder. Imagine our suprise when we discovered that he has average to above average intelligence. The kid is smart! (It's against the law to IQ test him because he's AA so we don't know his exact IQ) It took a lot longer for the psychologist to do the testing because he couldn't concentrate or focus for more than 1 or 2 minutes but she did get it done. His ped actually refused to prescribe medication until we had ALL of the testing completed and came back with ALL of the results. He also had a list of questions that he wanted the teacher to answer and he wanted to see the actual answers.

We put him on a minimal dose of meds in March. From March to June he went from reading at a K level to reading at a 3rd grade level. He went from failing every single math quiz he took to get 95-100% on every one of them. We just got his CAT6 tests scores back and he scored proficient in English and advanced in Math. This all in less than 4 months after putting him on the med.

Meds are not an answer for every behavior or misbehavior out there. Yes ritalin has a similar makeup to meth and it can lead to suicide but being laughed at and made fun of because the other kids think you are "stupid" leads kids to shoot other kids, it produces very poor self esteem, it leads kids to suicide.

well that is true but if you have tried all the other alternatives and your child still needed a mild dose of medication would you consider putting him or her on it? they always start out with the lowest dose and then adjust it accordingly. my older son never and i mean never had a problem with not being able to eat LOL he was a big boy to begin with and still is and still ate quite well when he was on the ritalin so i know it didnt affect his appetite.

I was going to respond to this post earlier but I had things that I had to go take care of and was not able to do that. That being said - on to my response.


Your response to this issue is VERY ignorant. To say that my child has ADHD due to my lack of involvement is far from accurate. You see I am probably WAY more involved in my chidlren's lives than the majority. That you would insinuate that because my two children have been diagnosed with ADHD they must sit around all day watching Playhouse Disney, Blue's Clues or whatever other show happens to be on tv is ignorant.

I homeschooled my children for 5 years. I was with them every single day. We did not have cable tv and they were allowed to watch a movie once a week. Occassionally they would watch a 30 minute Veggie Tale video but for the most part our tv was silent. We spent our days learning and playing together.

My 8 year STRUGGLED literally with learning EVERYTHING. He had a hard time learning his colors, his numbers and his shapes. He struggled for 3 LONG years to learn his letter names and the phonetic sounds that they make. He struggled and cried EVERY SINGLE DAY because he was so frustrated. He was frustrated because what he had learned the day before was forgotten. He cried because he couldn't pay attention long enough to learn what I was trying teach him. He tried. He struggled. He would tell me that it was to hard but he wanted to learn. At 6 he was still trying to learn his colors but my 3 year old foster child who came from another country knowing no english learned them faster than he did. HOw do you think that made him feel? Do you think that he wasn't learning because I wasn't willing to teach him? Maybe it's because I didn't spend enough time with him? Or maybe because he couldn't focus long enough to learn it and he couldn't sort out the stimulation that he DIDN'T need?

After 5 years of struggle we chose to put him in school. We felt that maybe someone else teaching him would help. Maybe putting him a different environment, having other kids to challenge him. I felt like I had failed him because he was SO FAR BEHIND. He started 2nd grade reading at a beginning K level. He had learned none of the rules of reading. He could read basic phonetic words. He was put into a reading group and a math group. He struggled still. Kids made fun of him because he couldn't read and could do only simple math. Yes he stood at his desl at all times and did push ups in the back of group but that really was not the issue. His teacher really didn't care that he did it. The problem was he struggled with EVERYTHING that had to do with learning.

We had him tested for learning disabilities thinking he might have a learning disorder. Imagine our suprise when we discovered that he has average to above average intelligence. The kid is smart! (It's against the law to IQ test him because he's AA so we don't know his exact IQ) It took a lot longer for the psychologist to do the testing because he couldn't concentrate or focus for more than 1 or 2 minutes but she did get it done. His ped actually refused to prescribe medication until we had ALL of the testing completed and came back with ALL of the results. He also had a list of questions that he wanted the teacher to answer and he wanted to see the actual answers.

We put him on a minimal dose of meds in March. From March to June he went from reading at a K level to reading at a 3rd grade level. He went from failing every single math quiz he took to get 95-100% on every one of them. We just got his CAT6 tests scores back and he scored proficient in English and advanced in Math. This all in less than 4 months after putting him on the med.

Meds are not an answer for every behavior or misbehavior out there. Yes ritalin has a similar makeup to meth and it can lead to suicide but being laughed at and made fun of because the other kids think you are "stupid" leads kids to shoot other kids, it produces very poor self esteem, it leads kids to suicide.



oh my gosh that brought tears to my eyes. i am so glad that he is doing so well. i feel everything you went thru.

well that is true but if you have tried all the other alternatives and your child still needed a mild dose of medication would you consider putting him or her on it? they always start out with the lowest dose and then adjust it accordingly. my older son never and i mean never had a problem with not being able to eat LOL he was a big boy to begin with and still is and still ate quite well when he was on the ritalin so i know it didnt affect his appetite.

You know Cat. It's easy for them to say that they never would because they have never been in the situation. I've learned to many times that anytime I say I never will do this or that, I come to a point where I'm facing the same thing and I can see clearly why the person made the decision that they did.

You can have ADHD and be non symptomatic.


read this.


http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/symptom.htm


dont tell me you cant have ADHD without any symptoms.

like i said it doesn't happen in all children but i stated that it occurs mostly when they are young and are put on ritalin as with any other stimulant. when i get home tonight i'll try and find some medical journals of studies stating side effects and stuff. kudos to the parents on here that actually researched the medications before putting their children on them. so many parents don't do that and that is sad and very ignorant to just say okay here little timmy or suzy take this everyday and it will make you feel better.
cat not to start problems but what age was your son put on meds?

To say that my child has ADHD due to my lack of involvement is far from accurate.

I didn't say yours?

Maybe I should start saying in my posts, "majority" .. like when I spoke my feelings about 20 yr olds being too young but also saying that there are those rare 17 yr olds (as an example) who do have their stuff together.

like i said it doesn't happen in all children but i stated that it occurs mostly when they are young and are put on ritalin as with any other stimulant. when i get home tonight i'll try and find some medical journals of studies stating side effects and stuff. kudos to the parents on here that actually researched the medications before putting their children on them. so many parents don't do that and that is sad and very ignorant to just say okay here little timmy or suzy take this everyday and it will make you feel better.
cat not to start problems but what age was your son put on meds?


he was 5 when he was diagnosed and thats when they only started him on .5mg of the ritalin. i think the most he went up to when he got to middle school was just 20mg but he was a big kid too so they probably were basing it on his weight and his performance in school too. but it never ever made him a zombie or anything like that cause if it did i would have yanked him off it in a heartbeat. as long as he continued to act like a normal child even with his attentional problems i didnt see any harm in having him on the meds, but when i read that they didnt know what the long terms effects were at that particular time then i just decided since we really didnt see to much of a change when he got to middle school thats when we decided to take him off the meds. but i think it did help him at least thru elementary school and while he was trying to learn behaviors too. i did most of the research myself and took him to all the drs appts and i didnt have to much support from my then husband. i was his advocate and i was the one at all the IEP meetings. so i know what its like.

I didn't say yours?

Maybe I should start saying in my posts, "majority" .. like when I spoke my feelings about 20 yr olds being too young but also saying that there are those rare 17 yr olds (as an example) who do have their stuff together.
You DIDNT say at first there were exceptions. You said all. And thats just wrong. You DO need to specify when debating. Debates are run with fact. Im not trying to be a bitch but you cant make a general statement and roll with it (Which you did at first) YES you did explain yourself and your facts later on and thats great. But when you first started into it all you didn't. And people are going to roll with that.

here are some sites that describe side effects:

ironically this first one is selling the drug while giving side effects such as anorexia, psychosis, etc etc http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

here's just a few i googled it and came back with over 340,000 hits for add/adhd medication side effects. i'm not saying that these articles are words to swear by but it just gives a good view on what is out there, what sort of reserach

here are some sites that describe side effects:

ironically this first one is selling the drug while giving side effects such as anorexia, psychosis, etc etc http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

here's just a few i googled it and came back with over 340,000 hits for add/adhd medication side effects. i'm not saying that these articles are words to swear by but it just gives a good view on what is out there, what sort of reserach
True. But as far as medication side effects go. Even if only 1% were to get those side effects they would still have to list them. I have taken meds were the side effects could be pretty bad. But if the benefits outweigh the risk that is when Dr's use it normally. And like I said even if only say 1% were to get something they HAVE to list it

I didn't say yours?

Maybe I should start saying in my posts, "majority" .. like when I spoke my feelings about 20 yr olds being too young but also saying that there are those rare 17 yr olds (as an example) who do have their stuff together

I believe it's not only the doctors misdiagnosing the kiddos but the parents as well. I've said it once, I've said it a million times... Parents do not get as involved as they should. If you engage yourself in what your child is engaged in... You'd be shocked how much longer they will tolerate it.

I believe, If you don't spend time with your kids.. hands on throughout the day, your child is going to grow up to be one of two things. ADHD, or a couch potatoe. Which would you prefer?.

To me it sounds as if you are making blanket statements. All children who have ADHD have parents who stick them in front of the tv. Kids who have ADHD have parents who aren't invlolved in their lives.

Im not trying to be a bitch

Lol, no need for language. I don't think of you as one.

:P

true about the side effects. typically they list the most frequent ones first and within the first couple loss of appetite was one of them. i'm not trying to say that it will happen to every kid or that it does but it must happen often enough to be on there. i'm on anti-seizure medications for my bipolar and some of those side effects are pretty bad also so i understand the whole the benefits outweigh the risks. but in situations with stimulants i'd definitely try all of the alternatives first.

i don't know what i'd do if i had an add/adhd child. i've worked with a couple autistic children when i was at the daycare that i worked at but they mostly kept to themselves and occasionally hit other children that were invading "their space". the mother of the one child that came on a regular bases went and got a test done based on the reports we gave her, basically saying that he was agressive if anyone came to close. would do repeated movements over and over again. hit himself, not talk, etc etc. she came back and she had gotten a preliminary diagnosis from her doctor saying that yes he had the symptoms of autism. it was difficult working with him because none of us at the daycare center were sure how to discipline him if he did act out. he was very loving and sweet when he tried.

i am very opinionated about add/adhd now but i don't know what i would do if i was in some of your lady's situations.

here are some sites that describe side effects:

ironically this first one is selling the drug while giving side effects such as anorexia, psychosis, etc etc http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/ritalin_side_effects.htm

here's just a few i googled it and came back with over 340,000 hits for add/adhd medication side effects. i'm not saying that these articles are words to swear by but it just gives a good view on what is out there, what sort of reserach



oh just to let you know my son that was on the ritalin when he was 5 is now currently 20 years old LOL so there were not probably out back then.

read this.


http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/symptom.htm


dont tell me you cant have ADHD without any symptoms.

My stepfather has AADHD, He's non symptomatic. Everything requires a trigger.

Quote:
DSM-IV Criteria for ADHD
I. Either A or B:

Six or more of the following symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

Inattention

Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.

Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.

Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).

Often has trouble organizing activities.

Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).

Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).

Is often easily distracted.

Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

Hyperactivity

Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.

Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.

Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).

Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.

Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".

Often talks excessively.

Impulsivity

Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.

Often has trouble waiting one's turn.

Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

Some symptoms that cause impairment were present before age 7 years.

Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g. at school/work and at home).

There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in social, school, or work functioning.

The symptoms do not happen only during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other Psychotic Disorder. The symptoms are not better accounted for by another mental disorder (e.g. Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder).



I have all of these. Am I adhd? No.

true cat

read this.


http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/symptom.htm


dont tell me you cant have ADHD without any symptoms.

Moreover.

I think every child has most of these "symptoms"

No wonder its over diagnosed, and our youth is over medicated.

My father has AADHD, He's non symptomatic. Everything requires a trigger.

Quote:
DSM-IV Criteria for ADHD
I. Either A or B:

Six or more of the following symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

Inattention

Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.

Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.

Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).

Often has trouble organizing activities.

Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).

Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).

Is often easily distracted.

Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

Hyperactivity

Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.

Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.

Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).

Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.

Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".

Often talks excessively.

Impulsivity

Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.

Often has trouble waiting one's turn.

Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

Some symptoms that cause impairment were present before age 7 years.

Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g. at school/work and at home).

There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in social, school, or work functioning.

The symptoms do not happen only during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other Psychotic Disorder. The symptoms are not better accounted for by another mental disorder (e.g. Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder).



I have all of these. Am I adhd? No.




if you have all of these then how can you say you are not ADHD?

they might have some of the symptoms described here but its how many and how it affects their lives and learning and the criteria and the intensity that determines if they have ADHD. if you the occasional symptoms then NO i would not classify you has having ADHD at all.

here are some sites that describe side effects:


It's the same with any medication that you take. Birth control pills and depo have harsh side effects in many cases as well but people still use them.

2 psychatrists told my mother it is not ADD anymore, it is ADHD with different classifications
I was told the same thing in a class. If someone is currently diagnosed with ADD, they may have recieved that diagnosis before the re-classification. Also, no, teachers are absolutely not allowed to diagnose or even refer a diagnosis to a child. They are only allowed to say "in my professional oppinion, your child shows some characteristics/tendencies of....."
I don't believe the heightened diagnoses are caused by young or old parents, i think it's because adhd is still a relatively "new" disability (i'm sure it's been around, just defined more recently) and there still aren't enough regulations to determine such. I believe as we learn more about it and are able to pin-point it more closely, Dr. Psycho won't be so label-happy.:shrug we'll see.

typically they list the most frequent ones first and within the first couple loss of appetite was one of them.

Loss of appetite is a frequent side effect. One that was a big issue with Makkiah because he's already small due to his steroids (needed so that he can breath on a daily basis) and reflux. Our ped said that the solution is to feed him before giving him the medication.

if you have all of these then how can you say you are not ADHD?

Sorry.

I looked back at that post and noticed I didn't highlight correctly. I just fixed however. The fact remains. I have all the highlighed ones I just fixed.

am I adhd? No.

Moreover.

Im pretty consistent with having most of these signs regularly that I highlighted. Not being adhd, but being human.

You can teach a child right from wrong. But it's something they must have instilled in their thoughts from the moment they can learn right from wrong. You cant take a 7 year old who's spoiled rotten and allowed to do whatever they want, and expect him or her to just be a perfect student and listen. You need to teach them those morals and values from the time they're born. You need to be a PARENT from that point on.

You can teach a child right from wrong. But it's something they must have instilled in their thoughts from the moment they can learn right from wrong. You cant take a 7 year old who's spoiled rotten and allowed to do whatever they want, and expect him or her to just Be a perfect student and listen. You need to teach them those morals and values from the time they're born. You need to be a PARENT from that point on.

My child does know right from wrong. ALL of my children do. I have 7 children at home. I've had 40 something foster children. All have been taught right from wrong. My children are not spoiled rotten. My children are taught morals. They are all taught values. It doesn't change my sons diagnosis. It doesn't change his ability to learn or not learn.

.. and getting back to the link that cat posted 2 pages ago I believe, I'm trying to stay up in this thread and read the link she posted and I want to point this out

DSM-IV Criteria for ADHD
I. Either A or B:

Six or more of the following symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

we all have experienced the symptoms individually or collectively at some point...... it's if you have 6 or more symptoms lasting at least 6 months consecutively

.. and getting back to the link that cat posted 2 pages ago I believe, I'm trying to stay up in this thread and read the link she posted and I want to point this out

DSM-IV Criteria for ADHD
I. Either A or B:

Six or more of the following symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

we all have experienced the symptoms individually or collectively at some point...... it's if you have 6 or more symptoms lasting at least 6 months consecutively

Two points to make - The DSM lists minimal criteria for diagnosis. For example, if a child is exhibiting 6 of the symptoms sporadically within 6 months a doctor may decide to schedule a check up to further evaluate the child before making a thorough diagnosis. Also, I think the crucial point the DSM makes is that the symptoms displayed are (as you quoted) disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level.

I'm not sure of practices in the US, but here if a GP is unsure of diagnosis, the patient will be referred to a consultant. The system is not perfect, but it's in place to ascertain that an accurate diagnosis can be made (and it puts off parents looking for a quick fix!)

It doesn't change my sons diagnosis. It doesn't change his ability to learn or not learn.

I respect your opinion.

I'm just saying in a general opinion towards the whole issue this thread has gone that I don't believe it's a diagnosis for medical intervention. I think love, commitment, and loyalty to ones child is enough to get them through it.

and to make another note regarding this topic in a whole.

How long is a doc around a child to diagnose them? Are they only going on mom's word?

.. and just to be safe before I say this as to not think I'm putting every single female in this category (yes, I learned, lol)

the mother who pays little to no attention to them as Dora the explorer and spongebob are their real parents?

I'm just saying in a general opinion towards the whole issue this thread has gone that I don't believe it's a diagnosis for medical intervention. I think love, commitment, and loyalty to ones child is enough to get them through it.

Your statement bears a striking resemblance to Tom Cruise's view that PPD should be treated with vitamins rather than antidepressants.....

I do believe that the condition has often been misdiagnosed, but where it hasn't I believe that medical intervention can help.

How long is a doc around a child to diagnose them? Are they only going on mom's word?

GP's may have little time in a preliminary appointment to diagnose a patient, but I have never known a case of ADD or ADHD to be diagnosed within the first two appointments. (but as I have stated earlier, the system may be different where you are)

A child acting out for attention can be easily misinterpreted as having ADHD when the problem is emotional and psychological, not physical as in real cases of ADD/ADHD.

It's easy for a lot of parents to take the medication route instead of seeing the bigger picture and accepting that it's their actions or lack thereof causing such behavior.

If these medications out there like Ridalin, Zoloft, Klonopin, etc work so well than why is the FDA ready to take them out because of problems such as suicidal behavior and childrens' behavior being worse than before the meds? There are so many case studies proving that these meds do more harm than good in children.

Parents need to stop passing the buck onto medical practitioners and be more involved with their child(ren)'s issues. Therapeutic interaction has a lot more retention success as opposed to medications. In most cases, as soon as the child is taken off of meds, they revert back or may even be worse than before because now they have to deal with the withdrawals on top of the disease.

A child acting out for attention can be easily misinterpreted as having ADHD when the problem is emotional and psychological, not physical as in real cases of ADD/ADHD.

It's easy for a lot of parents to take the medication route instead of seeing the bigger picture and accepting that it's their actions or lack thereof causing such behavior.

If these medications out there like Ridalin, Zoloft, Klonopin, etc work so well than why is the FDA ready to take them out because of problems such as suicidal behavior and childrens' behavior being worse than before the meds? There are so many case studies proving that these meds do more harm than good in children.

Parents need to stop passing the buck onto medical practitioners and be more involved with their child(ren)'s issues. Therapeutic interaction has a lot more retention success as opposed to medications. In most cases, as soon as the child is taken off of meds, they revert back or may even be worse than before because now they have to deal with the withdrawals on top of the disease.

In one post you inferred that the DSM was attributable to misdiagnosis of ADD/ADHD, now you're saying it's the parents?

Ritalin was one of the first drugs to emerge on the pharmaceutical market to treat the conditions. As with all preliminary products, there was definitely room for improvement (especially as with pediatric medicines stage 3 of clinical trials cannot be carried out). Seroxat (a 5HT reuptake inhibitor) had the same problem - it was recalled because of serious side effects in patients (eg. suicide) that were not forseen in clinical trials. But the fact that some of the drugs put on the market are not suitable for the condition does not mean that the condition does not exist or that it is not treatable.

As for perental interaction, I do agree that alternate therapies do help in some cases. Also, as with any drug used to treat a behavioural disorder, the patient needs to be taken off the drug slowly to avoid adverse effects. However, I do not believe that parents are 'passing the buck' in being concerned enough about their child to take them to a doctor.

all i can say is oh my gosh. apparently you arent getting what we are saying.

we all keep talking about the misdiagnosis of add/adhd and the over-medication and i know this is what the thread was based on but what about the illegal aspect?!? like i said in one of my other posts many high school and college students are taking advantage of the medical practioners prescribing this medication and selling it or using it as a drug to "study" or so they say. i know girls that took it as a diet drug. this is another major problem that i think is being ignored by alot of the t.v specials and medical journals. it isn't just a problem of children that are diagnosed but an entire generation problem.

2 psychatrists told my mother it is not ADD anymore, it is ADHD with different classifications

Maybe what YOUR sister has he is referring to...

Ritalin was one of the first drugs to emerge on the pharmaceutical market to treat the conditions. As with all preliminary products, there was definitely room for improvement (especially as with pediatric medicines stage 3 of clinical trials cannot be carried out). Seroxat (a 5HT reuptake inhibitor) had the same problem - it was recalled because of serious side effects in patients (eg. suicide) that were not forseen in clinical trials. But the fact that some of the drugs put on the market are not suitable for the condition does not mean that the condition does not exist or that it is not treatable.


READ ALL OF THIS BEFORE REPLYING

"First, how does Ritalin work? According to the manufacturer, no one knows. What has been known since the late 1930's is that if you give a child who has not yet entered puberty a stimulant, it has an opposite effect to the effect it would have on an adult. Instead of "speeding" the child up, it apparently overwhelms the child's central nervous system and cuts the child's motors. The child goes into a stuporous state, the depth of which is determined by the milligrams of the drug, per kilogram (2.2 pounds), of the child's body weight. While no study has ever shown an increase in a child's ability to learn while on Ritalin, studies have shown that any amount in excess of .5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight is a detriment to learning. The higher the dose, the greater the impairment of the child's ability to gain, retain and use data. Almost all children on the drug are given doses far in excess of this amount. In addition, the other direct effects of Ritalin and the amphetamines which will be covered later in this article are also potential, even in the smallest dose ranges. The effects of Ritalin, amphetamines and cocaine, including the side effects are in fact indistinguishable."

"Frankly, Ritalin is one of the most dangerous and addictive substances known to man. It is an extremely potent stimulant, a "speed" type drug, or "upper" as it is known to and is in high demand by "street" addicts. In the human body, its effect is chemically and neurologically equivalent to cocaine or the amphetamines."

"WARNING: According to the American Psychiatric Association, SUICIDE is the major adverse consequence of withdrawal from Ritalin and similar drugs. Suicides and attempted suicides by children on Ritalin have occurred when the drug was withdrawn or the dosage reduced. Suicides and attempted suicides have also occurred at normal dose levels without warning. Children should be watched for any signs of drug induced depression or other mental disturbance as these are common with the use of such powerful chemicals, particularly for periods lasting a week or longer. The effects of the drug may be cumulative within the brain and so the onset of adverse reactions such as suicidal thinking may be sudden and occur without warning. Special precautions should be taken during withdrawal or reduction in the amount used. Withdrawal or reduction of the amount of the substance used may also "unmask" drug induced states of severe paranoid delusional or psychotic states which can last for a year or longer after the last use of the drug. For this reason, children on Ritalin may hide their feelings and thoughts so no one will interfere with their attempt to destroy themselves. "
http://www.uhuh.com/education/ritpsych.htm

"Buried in the FDA/GSK release is an astounding fact: Depressed people are 6.4 times more likely to become suicidal while taking an antidepressant than while taking a sugar pill. [2]

No other antidepressants were mentioned in the FDA’s warning but all SSRI antidepressants share a common profile of adverse mental and behavioral effects, including Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, Luvox, and Lexapro. Several other relatively new antidepressants have also been implicated in producing similar psychiatric abnormalities, including Wellbutrin, Effexor, Serzone, and Cymbalta. All of the newer antidepressants can produce stimulation or activation with the potential for increased agitation, anxiety, mood instability, disinhibition, irritability, aggression, hostility, mania, and crashing into depression and suicide. They can also cause a flattening of emotional responses, including a loss of caring, that can unleash dangerous actions. [3]"

"Meanwhile, a comprehensive review of all studies of antidepressant drugs submitted for approval to the FDA showed that when the studies are taken as a whole, antidepressants don’t work."

"Abstract. Evidence from many sources confirms that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) commonly cause or exacerbate a wide range of abnormal mental and behavioral conditions. These adverse drug reactions include the following overlapping clinical phenomena: a stimulant profile that ranges from mild agitation to manic psychoses, agitated depression, obsessive preoccupations that are alien or uncharacteristic of the individual, and akathisia. Each of these reactions can worsen the individual’s mental condition and can result in suicidality, violence, and other forms of extreme abnormal behavior. Evidence for these reactions is found in clinical reports, controlled clinical trials, and epidemiological studies in children and adults. Recognition of these adverse drug reactions and withdrawal from the offending drugs can prevent misdiagnosis and the worsening of potentially severe iatrogenic disorders. These findings also have forensic application in criminal, malpractice, and
product liability cases."

http://www.breggin.com/

The February 28, 2005 Medical News Today reported on a new study that linked methylphenidate, the most widely prescribed of a class of amphetamine-like drugs used to treat ADHD, with chromosome abnormalities, occurrences associated with increased risks of cancer and other adverse health effects. Methylphenidate is the generic name for a group of drugs that includes Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate CD and others.

The article noted that researchers at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB), said they undertook the study because, even though methylphenidate has been approved for human use for more than 50 years, “there are surprisingly few studies” in either animals or human beings “on the potential for serious side effects,” such as causing mutations and cancer.

In this Texas study researchers drew blood from children diagnosed with ADHD before they started taking methylphenidate in order to measure the level of chromosomal abnormalities. Then three months after the children had begun taking methylphenidate, the researchers drew the children's blood again and tested it a second time, then compared it to the levels before the drug was taken. All of the children in the admittedly small study showed an increase in chromosomal damage within three weeks.

Lead author Randa A. El-Zein, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor of epidemiology at M.D. Anderson who performed the blood studies using several techniques, noted, "A higher frequency of aberrations is reported to be associated with an increased risk of cancer down the line." El-Zein continued, "It was pretty surprising that all of the children taking methylphenidate showed an increase in chromosome abnormalities in a relatively short period of time."

http://www.chiropracticresearch.org/...omo_damage.htm

"While it is true that children can show improvement in ADHD symptoms while on Ritalin, the Ritalin effects last only several hours. Ritalin effects ADHD symptoms but the Ritalin effects wears off when the drug wears off.

In most cases the Ritalin side effects are mild but some, though rare, are life-threatening. Nervousness and insomnia are the most common adverse Ritalin side effects."

"Ritalin can be helpful in the short term in reducing ADHD symptoms but no physician will claim that Ritalin cures ADHD. Stimulants used for ADHD symptoms merely postpone dealing with the root cause of the behavioral and attentional problems."

"Ritalin abuse and Ritalin addiction are prevalent Ritalin side effects. Ritalin is closely related to the illegal street drugs Methamphetamine, street name "crystal meth." Ironically, our society imprisons people for manufacturing drugs similar to the drugs physicians commonly prescribe to millions of children. "

"Ritalin is often referred to as "Kiddie Cocaine" for good reason. Long-term Ritalin effects have been linked to brain development abnormalities similar to those found with cocaine use."

http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/...de_effects.htm

http://ritalindeath.com/

all i can say is oh my gosh. apparently you arent getting what we are saying.

we?

It seems like a torn topic here. I've seen just as many responses saying the same as myself, and other responses being on another wavelength.

age and maturity go hand in hand.

In many cases younger parents tend to not have their stuff together yet, especially teens.

Some are in School, some have no skills, single mothers, have no goals or direction.. Not to mention mental stability and it takes that to handle children on the constant.

I hear people say that all the time that they didn't have a clue about life or being an adult until the mid to late 20's

Granted, That doesn't always hold true. There are those who have kids at 17 years of age and raise them alone and did fine. Obviously it's a given those ones were more mature as well. They obviously had direction, willpower, guidance, etc.. alot of the youth today don't have those things.

I wanted to add that being a single mother isn't in all cases a bad thing.... I was a single mother of my first son for more than a year because my ex husband abandoned us.... I was an excellent mother and I had my own apartment, food on the table, clothes on my son AND he even has some extras... I did that all on my own at 19 years old.

Now I do see where you are coming from. I agree that there are children who's behavioral problems are from bad parenting not a chemical disorder. But your blanket statements are what is making the point your trying to make come across too harsh and causing people to get a little peeved.

am I the only one that's noticed that most of her (?) posts are debate related and seams to be here more for the drama than for the support? I know nothing of this person besides this forum and a "good friday" post.

I may have missed something and if I did PLEASE tell me! lol

[QUOTE=REVELATI0N]and to make another note regarding this topic in a whole.

How long is a doc around a child to diagnose them? Are they only going on mom's word?

[QUOTE]


I know that my doctor did not go only by my word. As I said in another post. He wanted all testing done that the school would AND he had specific questions that he wanted the teacher to answer. There was also a meeting that we had at the school with a group of people to discuss him and his problems and that information was also given to the doctor prior to meds.

What I meant by passing the buck is parents accepting the prescription and not doing anything to positively alter their daily routine to interact more with their child or finding ways to improve the child's attention span and focusing

am I the only one that's noticed that most of her (?) posts are debate related and seams to be here more for the drama than for the support? I know nothing of this person besides this forum and a "good friday" post.

I may have missed something and if I did PLEASE tell me! lol

Apparently you aren't reading too much into me seeing as I did an Introduction and have stated many places here on the Board I'm male.

Furthermore, Most of my posts are debate related? This is my first debate thread which was originally posted as a personal rant which was moved into debate section.

"here more for the drama" .. so a difference of opinion is considered drama? interesting concept.

Ritalin is just one of MANY adhd medications that the kids are on. ADHD didnt become as highly diagnosed untill the past 10 years or so... so how long have these meds been out and tested?

Still, the average pediatrician is only given 15mins to 45 mins per patient by insurance payment protocol

we?

It seems like a torn topic here. I've seen just as many responses saying the same as myself, and other responses being on another wavelength.

I haven't seen anyone else who has insinuated the things that you are insinuating. Nobody else is saying that if I loved my child just a little more that he would be better. Or that if I had more compassion for him he would be better. Or that if I was more loyal to my child that all would be well. Other people are saying that is overdiagnosed, which by the way, I agree with. They are saying that to many kids who shouldn't be on meds are, which I agree with. They are not saying that it doesn't exsist and that if I was a better parent that it would just go away.

Apparently you aren't reading too much into me seeing as I did an Introduction and have stated many places here on the Board I'm male.

Furthermore, Most of my posts are debate related? This is my first debate thread which was originally posted in a personal rant section.

"here more for the drama" .. so a difference of opinion is considered drama? interesting concept.

I said I may have missed something ;) That's why when I said "her" I followed it by "(?)". You just seam a tad abbrasive. I know of another male on this board who doesn't have a stick up his butt :P


I actually agree with a lot of what you are saying.... Like I've said. You're just being too harsh (I'm not sure if that's the word I want to use) with your statements. No debating isn't drama, you're just being very abbrasive with people who this subject is sensitive to.

I actually agree with a lot of what you are saying....

I've seen a few responses saying the same in these last few pages. I dunno what I'm doing that I'm coming across as "harsh" but least I know I'm making valid points where a few people tend to agree with what I'm saying.

. No debating isn't drama, you're just being very abbrasive with people who this subject is sensitive to.

:agree

I was in tears earlier today because of things that you have said. I feel like you think I must be a horrible parent who sits her kids in front of the tv set all day and shoves pills down their throat.

I've seen a few responses saying the same in these last few pages. I dunno what I'm doing that I'm coming across as "harsh" but least I know I'm making valid points where a few people tend to agree with what I'm saying.

Well I agree with some of what you say because they are what I have always believed. However I do believe there ARE children and adults who DO have ADD/ADHD, just not as many as they diagnose, which I BELIEVE is what you're trying to get across, as badly as you're doing it. Maybe pushy is a better word for harsh :P You're just making a lot of blanket statements and there are always acceptions to everything.

:agree

I was in tears earlier today because of things that you have said. I feel like you think I must be a horrible parent who sits her kids in front of the tv set all day and shoves pills down their throat.

I have also stated several times and even set an example with the under 20 yr olds and 17 yr old reference. Majority, not all. I'm not pinning you out in the least.

Maybe pushy is a better word.

If that's the case then some of the responses in this thread directed to me from others could be taken the same way. It's called difference of opinions. Hence why they call it a debate so people can speak their sides on the issue.

If that's the case then some of the responses in this thread directed to me from others could be taken the same way.

It's a fact my dear... woman are more sensitive than men. You're debating a subject that is sensitive to many. You don't have child of your own with anything like this... you don't have a child. Things are different when you are IN the situation and you need to try to be a little sensitive to that fact.

ADD is the most overdiagnosed disorder.

Seems like everyone has ADD now. Doctors are so quick to diagnose someone with ADD, even if no signs of ADD are present. We are becomming a society with children who are controlled by drugs. This is terrible, children need to learn to control themselves without drugs. That drugged up kid on adderal or what ever ADD medication isn't really your child, it is a body being controlled by pills.

Just got done watching a news special so thought I'd drop my .02 cents

You know what. When you get old and get cancer, or Alzheimer's, or Parkinsons, don't take those pills. You wouldn't want to be "controled" by pills would you?

If that's the case then some of the responses in this thread directed to me from others could be taken the same way. It's called difference of opinions. Hence why they call it a debate so people can speak their sides on the issue.

To effectively debate you also have to be educated (yes I consider a parent who has lived with this to be "educated" on this topic) on the subject. Not that you can't debate.. your debate just holds more water when you know facts and many angles :D so of course parents who have experienced this will have very strong opposing opinions to yours.

ETA: A news special doesn't make you educated on a subject.



I will say again. I do agree is it highly overdiagnosed and misdiagnosed.

There's no reason to be in tears. (L) This is the debate forum for a reason. This is where all the straight forward, no bullshit differences of opinion happen. I don't think he's being too abbrasive, honestly. He's debating about a subject he's passionate about and it's obviously touched nerves with people who are also very passionate about it. Sometimes debates can be hurtful and hard to read and talk about when it's something that you feel very strongly about. That's why I simply can not debate about certain topics that I know will get me going. If you feel hurt, I'd probably back away from this topic because there really is no reason to feel badly about yourself as a mom and be in tears about it. He is totally entitled to his opinion and he's entitled to state it however he wants to without sugar coating (As long as the terms of service are being kept in mind) but this is one of those things like breast vs bottle, circ vs no circ, cosleep vs no cosleep, etc, etc... some people are bound to feel very strongly about it and when there are feelings and personal experiences involved, it's very easy to let your emotions get involved and take things very personally. I think this is an EXCELLENT debate and I hope both sides can continue to talk about their personal feelings, experiences and research without anyone getting too hurt about it. Debates are based on facts but I do believe that they can also be based on personal experience and personal feelings about a particular subject. No hurt feelings, guys. (L)

I have never known a case of ADD or ADHD to be diagnosed within the first two appointments.

I have.

3 appointments. You think 3 hours is enough to diagnose a child with something that the topic is about?

I have.

3 appointments. You think 3 hours is enough to diagnose a child with something that the topic is about?

I have also.

My nephew was diagnosed with it in 1 visit.. with several different docs. My nephew has Aspergers syndrom, NOT ADHD.

To effectively debate you also have to be educated (yes I consider a parent who has lived with this to be "educated" on this topic) on the subject. Not that you can't debate.. your debate just holds more water when you know facts and many angles :D so of course parents who have experienced this will have very strong opposing opinions to yours.

ETA: A news special doesn't make you educated on a subject.



I will say again. I do agree is it highly overdiagnosed and misdiagnosed.

I spoke briefly earlier in the thread pertaining my personal situation with the mother/child

News specials don't make you educated?

.. I also believe I have 0 problem hoisting up articles like other members here in this thread and have 0 problem as well having a discussion about what is being posted. If I was so clueless, I wouldn't have the responses of select few actually agreeing with some of what I been saying.

There's no reason to be in tears. (L) This is the debate forum for a reason. This is where all the straight forward, no bullshit differences of opinion happen. I don't think he's being too abbrasive, honestly. He's debating about a subject he's passionate about and it's obviously touched nerves with people who are also very passionate about it. Sometimes debates can be hurtful and hard to read and talk about when it's something that you feel very strongly about. That's why I simply can not debate about certain topics that I know will get me going. If you feel hurt, I'd probably back away from this topic because there really is no reason to feel badly about yourself as a mom and be in tears about it. He is totally entitled to his opinion and he's entitled to state it however he wants to without sugar coating (As long as the terms of service are being kept in mind) but this is one of those things like breast vs bottle, circ vs no circ, cosleep vs no cosleep, etc, etc... some people are bound to feel very strongly about it and when there are feelings and personal experiences involved, it's very easy to let your emotions get involved and take things very personally. I think this is an EXCELLENT debate and I hope both sides can continue to talk about their personal feelings, experiences and research without anyone getting too hurt about it. Debates are based on facts but I do believe that they can also be based on personal experience and personal feelings about a particular subject. No hurt feelings, guys. (L)

Thank you, Brandi.

Appreciated.

I have also stated several times and even set an example with the under 20 yr olds and 17 yr old reference. Majority, not all. I'm not pinning you out in the least.

You say that but then you go back to saying that ADHD is not a condition that requires medical intervention. If the parents with these kids spent more time with them, taught them morals, had more compassion and loyalty then all would be well. That's not the case with ALL of these kids.

I have.

3 appointments. You think 3 hours is enough to diagnose a child with something that the topic is about?

Of course a child can be diagnosed in 3 appointments! If it's that obvious they have ADD, it doesn't take a month or more! Everyone is different. It might take a doctor longer