Tuesday, June 9, 2009

ADHD Myths Busted

I actually got this info from Scholastic's Parent & Child magazines June/July issue and thought that I would share it with everyone. In case y'all didn't know, Anthony has ADHD and it's such a pain to talk to people about it because they have their preconceived notions of what it is.



Myth #1: Researchers have found that ADHD is a genetic disorder.

Truth: Studies suggest that genes are a significant factor, but scientists don't yet know the exact cause of ADHD. Other contributing factors may include enviroment, nutrition, and brain injuries; these are still being explored.



Myth#2: All children with ADHD are inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive.

Truth: Some children exhibit only one of these three symptoms primarily (which can contribute to a misdiagnosis). A child with mostly inattentive symptoms, for example, may sit quietly in class and get along well with other children.



Myth #3: ADHD medication is addictive.

Truth: There is little evidence that the medications prescribed to treat ADHD lead to abuse or dependence.



Myth #4: An ADHD diagnosis automatically means a child is eligible for an "individualized education program" (IEP) at school.

Truth: Not all kids with ADHD are eligible for special education and related services. It can depend on how much it affects the child's ability to perform in the classroom. But as the parent, you do have input in the decision regarding IEP eligibility.



Myth #5: ADHD symptoms sometimes don't emerge until adulthood.

Truth: It's true that some people are diagnosed as adults. But they've experienced ADHD symptoms from childhood and continue to experience them in adulthood; it's only the diagnosis that's new.


Source: National Institute of Mental Health's "Attention Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)" booklet. To view or download, visit nimh.nih.gov/health/publications and select ADHD in the pull-down menu.

So there you have it. Maybe that can shed a little light on some ADHD issues.

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