ADHD is not a rare condition in today's modern world. Perhaps it is the decline of the family and neighborhood and the rise of extremely realistic video games and television shows that are contributing to the problem.
by Rachel Naba
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) seems to be a rising problem in modern countries, and many of our children who are diagnosed with the condition are given powerful drugs, the most common being Ritalin. Meanwhile, alternative research has shown Ritalin to be a controversial and potentially dangerous substance. Chemically similar to cocaine, Ritalin has addictive properties and produces behavioral, physiological and reinforcing effects similar to amphetamines. It also has a widespread history of abuse; Sweden removed Ritalin from its market in 1968 because of widespread abuse, and it is known as one of the more popular recreation drugs used by high school students. The drug has a long list of problems, and many parents are searching for alternatives.
According to the DEA, the production of Ritalin has increased by more than 500% since 1991. The number of prescriptions for ADHD has increased by a factor of 5 in the same time period. In 1998, over 4000 prescriptions for Ritalin were written for use in children under the age of two; meanwhile, the drug is not approved for use in children under age six due to safety and efficacy concerns. Ritalin is not the only answer, and there are many treatments available, ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of childhood by the modern medical system.
Symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity for at least six months in at least two different settings, and these behaviors are so persistent that they interfere with a child's daily life. Symptoms usually appear before a child reaches seven years of age, and diagnosing the condition is often very difficult. The modern medical system does not know what causes ADHD: some say it is genetics, others blame excessive slow-wave (theta) activity in the brain, many believe exposure to neurotoxins play a role, and some blame a low level of dopamine (a neurotransmitter involved with mental and emotional functioning). Scientists do know that it is much more likely to show up in boys (it is four to nine times more common in boys than in girls) and that kids with the disorder usually have at least one first-degree relative with ADHD.
Most ADHD patients who follow the hospital treatment plans must undergo multiple lifestyle changes to bring the condition under control. The most accepted treatments by the medical system include treatments by the medical system include individual and family education, behavioral therapy, social skills training, and prescription drugs.
Parental training aids parents in understanding their child's special needs and provides tools for managing their behavior. Parents are told to establish clear rules that are easily understood and Age-appropriate, remind the child of consequences but avoid repeated commands, enforce discipline before becoming angry, and praise the child when he/she behaves appropriately. Social skills training and modifications in the school environment are said to help the child cope and learn more efficiently.
Medications are the most common and relied upon treatments for ADHD. Ritalin (methylphenidate) is the most common drug used for ADHD, and is one of the most controversial drugs for children among health-conscious circles. Other medications include Cylert (pemoline) and Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine). All of the prescription drugs have a long list of adverse side effects (many of which are serious) and caution against addiction.
