Did you know that the most popular ADHD drug Ritalin has been on the market for over forty years? Naturally, on reading that you might be a little reassured that there has been some research on ADHD and the long term effects of this drug. Well, there hasn't been any research like that and even if there had been, the drug companies are keeping it well hidden! Basically we have not moved forward at all and medication is now restricted to amphetamines like Ritalin, anti-depressants and some new non-stimulant drugs like Strattera. Research on ADHD and its causes has not made much progress either and only about two of the genes responsible have been discovered. The sad thing is that very few neurologists and pediatricians will come forward to condemn the mass drugging of America's children.
On a more optimistic note, we have prestigious bodies in America who now tell worried parents that some behavioural interventions will be necessary in any ADHD treatment regime. That observation has come after other research about ADHD has revealed that ADHD meds are just not nearly sufficient in treating this mental disorder.
Let us take a look at some of the behavior of kids in the UK to-day which is usually modelled on the TV reality shows like EastEnders and Big Brother. Defiant aggressive behaviour accompanied by swearing is the absolute norm. A survey of 800 teachers showed that answering back and insubordination are considered normal behaviour. Add to that an aggressive child who is suffering from ODD (Oppositional Defiance Disorder) and or ADHD and the problem becomes really serious if parents cannot intervene with suitable behaviour therapy techniques. The sad truth is that kids are unable to differentiate between reality and reality TV ! No ADHD drugs will solve these problems no matter what research on ADHD is done.
But with ADHD behavioural therapy, parents can take back control and save their families from a sort of self destruction. How do you as a parent learn simple effective consequences for kids or teenagers who are refusing to go to bed, verbally abusing you and their siblings, swearing and refusing to do homework? Learn how to impose consequences even with kids who choose to ignore you. Research on ADHD has shown at least that with behaviour therapy kids will learn coping mechanisms if they are inattentive and learn how to control themselves. All this without possibly harmful psychostimulants. The sites below will take you to sites which will help you to get back on track with your kid and restore serenity and happiness in your family.
Portuguese
Spanish
French