ADD/ADHD victims need drugs
http://www.heraldtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20030908/NEWS/309080468/1029
I must respond to correct dangerously inaccurate remarks from the Aug. 28
letter about "drug-controlled robots." Before spreading such misinformation
which could harm children and their parents, the writer should have
researched the topic to get the facts straight.
Attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are
not new diseases. They are two medical conditions which have been diagnosed
and successfully treated with medications for more than 30 years. Long- term
effects are documented.
Children with ADD are not hyperactive, but seem inattentive and unable to
focus. Children with ADHD are impulsive, in constant motion and unable to
complete tasks. Although frequently quite bright, without treatment children
with ADD and ADHD have learning difficulties, present severe discipline
problems, are accident- prone, have increased school dropout rates and
frequently manifest anti-social behavior. Discipline, patience and love are
necessary but ineffective alone without the medication, which they need as
much as a diabetic child needs insulin. Behavioral management is also part
of therapy.
ADD/ADHD are clinical diagnoses based on established criteria. A physician
will only prescribe medication if certain criteria are met. The dosage is
monitored carefully for effectiveness and side effects. The children are not
"zombies."
Let me relate a success story of a boy, age 14, with ADHD. He is happy,
popular and well-adjusted in a gifted program with honors courses, plays in
the band, and is active in Boy Scouts. Before being placed on medication at
age 6, he was accident-prone, unable to sit still at school and unable to
concentrate.
Parents and teachers with children who are having difficulties with
attention or focus and exhibiting behavioral problems may go online at
CHADD.org (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder), or call CHADD at 1-800- 233-4050. Please help these children to
have a chance for success.