Living With ADHD

School Resources - Getting access to what your child deserves

2012-07-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

Hello again,

Are you like me, frustrated with the school system and options in place for special needs children? Where I live, you will be reported to the Ministry of Children and Families for not forcing medication on your special child. I went through several years of pop-in visits by the Ministry along with scathing parenting reports from teachers and administrators, all telling me how not to parent my child. Apparently, I was doing it all wrong and certainly didn't follow their directions, but rather followed my doctor's advice instead.

Going against the school system takes a certain type of person, one who isn't afraid of being told you are completely wrong in any method you try to help your child fit it. You see, regular public schools are not designed for special kids, even though they act like it is. Nothing in the curriculum is remotely tailored to a child with a learning disability and if you aren't fortunate enough to be put on the "high risk" list, you ultimately have to teach your child yourself. I found this book and I must admit, it would have come in handy a few years ago when I was deep in battle with the Ministry of Education over lack of instruction for my child.

Imagine a 6 year old left to play on a computer rather than being allowed to participate in the classroom routines simply because he was a withdrawn child and didn't like to sing and dance like the other children. He has sensory issues people and all that singing and dancing around just made his mind race even faster and then he would be punished for acting inappropriately in the classroom.

Save yourself some time and check out this book. Special Education Guide It may be the shortcut you have been looking for to circumvent the inevitable red tape to school a special child. Then come back and tell me what you think!

Aspergers?

2012-07-18T08:53:00.001-07:00

Today I received a confirmation letter from the hospital stating that Jacob has signs of Aspergers Syndrome and may benefit from a new form of treatment. I am skeptical but thought I would research some alternatives to medication and found this great book. The Parenting Asperger's Resource Guide was a great source of information on this disorder and I found some great parenting strategies that have seemed to work already. Hopefully you never have to experience the extent of parenting a child with ADHD and Asperger's syndrome as we do, and I am always encouraged by reading other's stories of success and failure. This gives me hope that we are at least working towards a manageable solution.

Have you purchased this book? If so, please feel free to respond with your own review and tell me what you liked or didn't like about the articles and tips. If you like, you can also include your story to help others understand why you may or may not have liked the information contained in this book.
The Parenting Asperger's Resource Guide

your online persona and what you should reveal when you have ADHD

2011-06-29T13:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I posted a link to an article written by Molly who indicated she was okay with revealing she has ADHD on her blog pages, etc. Is this a good strategy? I mean, what about employers seeking information about you before deciding whether or not to hire you. Would they want to hire the ADHD person if they have the biased opinion that you could be considered "lazy" and "disorganized". I think this is a double-edged sword. One one hand, you have to embrace who you are and be okay with that person and on the other hand, perception is a powerful tool that can be used for and against someone.

I admire Molly for forging ahead, no matter what! It takes courage and perseverance to live with who you really are and she didn't let anyone else's opinion stop her. It may cost her the odd job but with the prevalence of ADHD and the information out on the internet about it, I don't think it will be a problem for anyone if they stay on task and do what they should with regard to their jobs.

is your online persona a bad thing when it identifies you as having ADHD?

2011-06-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Read Molly's Story about her ordeal and revelation - awesome!

By Molly Zametkin, Published: June 27

taken from: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health/former-poster-child-for-female-adhd-decides-her-past-wont-hold-her-back/2011/05/31/AGOz5unH_story.html

Afew weeks ago, after completing my last class of college, I Googled my name. I knew I wouldn’t like what I saw, but I did it anyway. Eight hundred forty-five Google hits later, I was having a panic attack about what prospective employers and graduate schools would find: my tainted online reputation.
Rewind five years. It’s my senior year of high school. I’ve been accepted to several colleges, and I’ve just come to terms with the fact that I grew up with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and finally begun to embrace the diagnosis as part of who I am.

Comments

(Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post) - Molly Zametkin drew attention when she spoke out at age18 about having attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Accepting that I had attention issues was a breakthrough for me. I had spent my entire academic career struggling with shame and stigma. I hated being labeled ADHD; it made me feel as if people would think I was hyper, lazy, unmotivated and unfocused, which simply wasn’t the case. I remember finding it hard to resist chatting with my classmates when we were supposed to be doing assignments, and I was always doing my homework at the very last minute, but I also remember my teachers telling me I was a “bright” little girl. I was creative, I liked to work hard and I got good grades. Yet even when people told me I was bright, it felt as if they were saying, “You’re bright . . . for someone who has an attention problem.” I truly hated having my teachers and my parents think I was abnormal or flawed.
During my senior year of high school, however, I learned that a family friend with whom I was close had ADHD and wasn’t ashamed of it at all. She was beautiful, popular and smart, and she freely broadcast the fact that she was living with ADHD and taking stimulant medications to treat it. Somehow, her open attitude relieved me. I began to think, “Hey, if she has ADHD and people still think she’s cool, no one’s opinion of me will change if I ‘come out’ with the fact that I have it, too.”
I was right. I was finally able to tell my friends and my lacrosse teammates that I had ADHD, and no one’s opinion or attitude toward me changed at all. In fact, in many ways, it made people understand me better.
Around the same time, my father (who happens to be an ADHD researcher) was contacted by the organizer of a National Institutes of Health forum who was looking for speakers for an upcoming ADHD lecture series. The organizer needed a specialist as well as a person living with the disorder to speak at the forum. My dad agreed to speak and suggested that I offer my personal perspective.
Several weeks later, I found myself in front of a large audience at NIH recounting my struggles and triumphs living with ADHD. Not long after the NIH forum, I was asked to publish the lecture in a scholarly journal, and I was contacted by a reporter from The Post to discuss what it was like being a young woman with ADHD. Until that point, ADHD had been more frequently diagnosed in young men, but interest was finally shifting toward women.
Suddenly, I was the poster child for female ADHD. My picture was on the front page of The Post’s Health section, and I was even invited to be a speaker at the Canadian Children and Adults With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder conference in Toronto. “Cool!” I thought, “I’m famous!”

40 of the best blogs on ADHD

2011-06-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

I found this great resource for 40 of the best ADHD blogs from http://www.onlineuniversities.com/blog/2011/04/40-best-blogs-for-adhd-parents-educators/

ADHD is an often misunderstood and misdiagnosed condition, which can make life hard for those who suffer from it, especially as children. That’s why it’s essential for parents and educators who work with these kids to learn all they can about ADHD. With the right support and help, children with ADHD can be successful in school, college, careers and beyond and the earlier they start getting that support and help, the better. Here are 40 blogs that can be great resources for anyone working with ADHD children, offering information, advice, news and some inspiration to keep kids and parents motivated.
General
These blogs are great educational sources for those looking to learn about ADHD.

Primarily Inattentive ADD: Visit this blog to learn about ADD and ADHD treatments, causes and news. Recommended Post: "ADHD Inattentive in Girls."
CHADD Leadership Blog: The Children and Adults with ADHD group shares some advice and information on the condition here through Dr. Ruth Hughes. Recommended Post: "Can School Be a Positive Turning Point for Children with ADHD?"
About.com ADD/ ADHD Blog: If you’re looking for the basics on the condition, this About.com blog is a great place to start understanding ADD and ADHD. Recommended Post: "A Hopeful Message to Parents from a Parent."
Families.com Special Needs Blog: While not all the posts on this blog are focused on ADHD, parents will find regular postings on the condition that can be a big help. Recommended Post: "Tips To Help Kids With ADHD Communicate."
4 ADHD: Parents of children and teens with ADHD can use this site to find information and support that can help them better teach and work with their children. Recommended Post: "ADHD Impairs Kids’ Ability to Turn Off ‘Daydreaming Switch’."
ADHD Awareness: Dedicated to empowering children, parents and educators, this site is an amazing resource for anyone hoping to learn more about ADHD. Recommended Post: "Using the Feingold Diet."
ADHD Action.com: While not updated super regularly, this blog is nonetheless a good place to learn more about ADD and ADHD. Recommended Post: "ADHD Experts Round Table."
The ADHD Information Library: No matter what kind of information you’re looking for on ADHD, you’re bound to find it here, with not only a helpful blog, but tools to help you better understand treatment, diet and screening. Recommended Post: "Quotes for Inspiration."
ADHD Specialists: This company works to help children with ADHD thrive, and their blog offers free tips, inspiration and advice for parents and teachers. Recommended Post: "ADHD Comes in Different Types."

Psychology and Brain Science
Learn more about how the brain works on these blogs, something that can help you better work with an ADHD child.

CorePsych Blog: While the blog deals with larger psychology issues, readers will find a large number of posts dedicated to ADHD research. Recommended Post: "The Patient’s Guide for ADHD Medications."
SharpBrains: Parents and ADHD kids can help improve their brain fitness and learn more about treating the condition here. Recommended Post: "The Ten Habits of Highly Effective Brains."
Stress-Free Kids: Dealing with ADHD can be a stressful process, but stress isn’t something that helps any child thrive. Learn how to reduce the anxiety in your child and become a happier parent here. Recommended Post: "Teachers & Childcare Providers’ Impact On A Child’s Self-Esteem."
Brain Rules: You’ll find tips for "surviving and thriving at work, home and school" on this brain blog. Recommended Post: "The #1 mistake parents make with praise."
Early Childhood Brain Insights: Understand the development of your child’s brain and the effects ADHD might have on how they behave here. Recommended Post: "The Brain Is Naturally Motivated To Learn."

Parenting
These parenting blogs share stories of parents raising kids with ADHD.

A Mom’s View of ADHD: See what life with an ADHD kid is like for this mom, and find links to resources, products and information that can help. Recommended Post: "creating calm."
ADD Moms: Here you’ll find a group of moms with kids who have ADD and ADHD offering up support and shared experiences that can help make raising an ADHD child a little easier. Recommended Post: "Memories and ADHD."
Life with ADHD: This dad shares news, information and research about ADD/ADHD here. Recommended Post: "The Truth About Fish Oil and ADHD."
ADHD Parenting Blog: Mom and blogger Kay shares what her life is like, raising a child with ADHD and developmental delays. Recommended Post: "ADHD Growing Pains: When Bodies Change Faster Than Emotions Develop."
Life With Boys: Follow along as this mom struggles to help her children deal with ADHD through diet, treatments and more. Recommended Post: "Teaching Kids with ADHD."
Charlotte’s ADHD Web: On this blog, you’ll get to see the effect of ADHD on one family’s life– sometimes humorously and sometimes, well, not. Recommended Post: "A Day Without Adderall!!!??!!"
Empowering Parents: This blog is a great resource for parents looking for help and empowerment when it comes to child behavior. Recommended Post: "5 Things I Wish Teachers Knew About Parents."
ADHD Doctor Dad: This dad shares some great parenting tips and advice on ADHD here. Recommended Post: "Parenting Young Children: ADHD Children in Preschool."

Education
Teachers and parents alike will find helpful tips on these blogs.

ADD Student: This blog is a great place to find ideas that can help your child or student with ADHD do better in the classroom. Recommended Post: "Bullying and ADHD."
ADHD & LD Education Blog: ADHD expert Ben Glenn shares his insights into the disorder here. Recommended Post: "The Power of Motivation for ADHD Children."
ADHD College Blog: ADHD doesn’t just go away once kids grow up. Here you’ll learn how to help a college age kid with ADHD get through their courses. Recommended Post: "A Secret Study Weapon for ADHD College Students."
On Special Education: Educators and parents can learn more about the latest news in special education here. Recommended Post: "Reading Disability Risk In Girls With ADHD."
For the Love of Teaching: This teacher shares stories of how to use technology in the classroom and to educate kids on how the brain works. Recommended Post: "Help! I’m Losing My Patience!"
Edge Foundation: The Edge Foundation provides coaching for students with ADHD and their blog is a good resource for anyone working with ADHD kids. Recommended Post: "Michael Phelps ADHD is not an attention deficit."

Experts
Doctors and experts on ADHD offer up their advice on these great sites.

ADD ADHD Blog: Check out this blog to hear from Dr. Kenny Handelman on ADD and ADHD. Recommended Post: "ADHD and Food Additives: A Ban?"
Experiencing ADDvantages: Founder of the ADD Management Group, Jennifer Koretsky shares her struggle with ADD on this blog. Recommended Post: "10 Benefits of Having Attention Deficit Disorder."
My ADD/ADHD Blog: Tara McGillicuddy is an ADD/ADHD support mentor and coach, who provides inspiring and educational posts on her blog. Recommended Post: "ADD / ADHD Medication Resource."
School Psychologist Blog Files: School psychologist Erin King doesn’t focus exclusively on ADHD on this blog, but it’s still a great resource for educators or parents looking for insights into the minds of their children. Recommended Post: "Make Homework Routine."
ADHD Experts Blog: You’ll hear from those who suffer from ADHD as well as doctors who study it on this excellent blog. Recommended Post: "Is This Parenting Style Too Strict for Our ADHD Child?"
ADHD from A to Zoe: This PsychCentral blog is written by Zoe Kessler, a woman who suffers from ADHD and writes about it in a variety of forums– including on this site. Recommended Post: "He Said / She Said: Examining the ADHD Life."
Pediatric OT: This pediatric occupational therapist helps kids with a wide range of conditions. Recommended Post: "When a Child Can’t Sit Still."
Dr. Ferrari’s Attention Deficit Disorder Blog: Visit this blog to learn more about ADHD from Dr. Stephen A. Ferrari, an expert in ADHD and ADD as well as sleep disorders, depression, anxiety and autism. Recommended Post: "EEG Biofeedback or Neurofeedback for ADD/ADHD."

Inspiration
If you’re feeling frustrated, turn to these for some inspiration to keep you and your child working towards goals.

A Splintered Mind: Blogger Douglas Cootey suffers from ADHD and depression and this blog documents his day to day struggles with both as he overcomes them and writes not only this blog, but a novel as well. Recommended Post: "Thinking About ADHD, Stillness and Writing Daily."
Pills Don’t Teach Skills: Here, Jeff Hamilton talks about his struggle with adult ADD and how he feels like pills aren’t always the answer. Recommended Post: "Jeff Hamilton’s ADD interview with Tina Oliver."
ADDerworld: Learn to think more positively about ADD and ADHD through the great posts on this blog by a man who is a sufferer of the condition himself. Recommended Post: "The Incredible Frustrating ADHD Drive to Achieve."
ADHD Drug-Free Solutions Blog: Find some great alternatives to medication for treatment of ADHD on this blog. Recommended Post: "What Are Your Kids Drinking?"

Texting and ADHD? Is your child being bullied via a cell phone?

2011-06-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

Shane H. writes:

My ADHD/LD son is 13. I recently decided, against my better judgment, to get him a cell phone and allow him to text. I set limits of usage, allowing only 200 texts per month with our data plan.

I soon realized that his life started to revolve around his new found freedom. He felt powerless without his phone. It was an ever-present accessory that I soon began to despise.

I randomly checked his texts to make sure he was sending and receiving age appropriate messages. I was shocked at what I found. His "friends" had began bullying him via text.

We successfully addressed and eliminated the bullying issue at school and on the bus during the first month of school. Now, it has crept back into his life.

My husband and I discussed the bullying texts with him. He confided in us that he felt so much pressure to "fit in" and text like everyone else does. Having ADHD and LD, he has always had a problem "fitting in" and relating to his peers. This seemed magnified now that he was attempting to text. He frequently misspelled words and didn't understand when the kids texting him were joking or being serious. This is a common symptom of ADHD... inadequate social skills.

We mutually decided to allow him to keep the phone but that there would be no more texting. To my surprise, my son was relieved. He said he instantly felt better knowing the "pressure" was now gone. I told him to use me as the scapegoat. I have no problem with him telling his buddies that his "mean mom" took his texting privileges away.

I explained that kids generally text things that they would never have the nerve to say face-to-face. He agreed. I'm encouraging him to actually use his phone for it's intended purpose.... to CALL his friends and actually SPEAK with them. He's so much happier now and his hands, especially his thumbs, are beginning to straighten out.

Do you allow your ADHD/LD child to text? Has he/she encountered text bullying? What have you done to stop it?

7 Crucial Tips for Parents and Teachers of Children with ADHD

2011-06-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Dr. Handelman has another great article:

By Dr. Kenny Handelman

I want to share with you a free resource which I think you will find very helpful.
Bryan Hutchinson has authored 3 books on ADHD, and several free ebooks. I’m writing to share with you about one of the free ebooks which I think you’ll find very helpful.

In this ebook, Bryan shares 7 crucial tips for parents and teachers of children with ADHD. These tips are very good. Bryan writes with great understanding of what kids and teens with ADD/ADHD need, because of the fact that he grew up with undiagnosed ADHD. He was diagnosed as an adult, and has looked back on the challenges of his childhood. Fortunately for us – Bryan has chosen to share his experiences and insights to help us to understand better what goes on for kids and teens with ADD/ADHD (whether they are undiagnosed, or diagnosed).
This free ebook is: an easy read, useful, and practical. There is wisdom in these (virtual) pages. I encourage you to claim your copy of this ebook right now.
You can get your free copy here: 7 Crucial Tips for Parents and Teachers of Children with ADHD
If you find the information helpful, why not learn more from Bryan?
You can get copies of his other ADHD books here. (I particularly recommend ‘One Boy’s Struggle’)
And, of course, because this ebook is free – you are allowed to pass it along to other people who you think may benefit from it.
Enjoy!
Dr. Kenny
p.s. here’s the link again to the free ebook:
7 Crucial Tips for Parents and Teachers of Children with ADHD

courtesy of : http://www.addadhdblog.com/tips-for-parents-teachers-adhd/#more-1153

Another supporter of the protein shake

2011-06-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

I found this great article:

ADHD Diet: WHAT TO EAT TO OPTIMIZE THE ADHD BRAIN
Just as some foods make the brain "foggy," other foods can enhance and optimize brain performance. Here are some things to eat to feed the ADHD brain...

FOR BREAKFAST SERVE HIGH PROTEIN, LOW CARBOHYDRATE MEALS. Say, “Good-bye,” to Breakfast cereals and milk. Breakfast cereals are mostly carbohydrate and sugar, which is a bad combination for the ADHD brain. And many children are allergic to milk. So the classic American breakfast of cereal with milk is a bad idea.
Instead, serve 60% to 70% Protein and 30% to 40% Carbohydrates for Breakfast. Eggs, breakfast meats, and some toast would be fine. Other meals of the day could be 50% Protein and 50% Carbohydrate.
PROTEIN SUPPLEMENTS might be needed to get the added protein for Breakfast. They are often very helpful in the afternoon as well. Here is our favorite recipe for a Protein Shake: a) Make a cup of coffee with a flavor that you or your child will like (yes, I know I'm breaking my own rules here, as these flavors will have some sugar, but I'm trying to get your kid to actually drink the thing, and also get some caffeine mixed with the protein.). Pour the hot coffee into a blender with about 6 oz of ice. Turn on the blender for a bit.
b) Add a good quality protein powder. There are many good ones available. If you can't find one that you like, ask at your local health food store. Get protein powders that are mostly protein and very little carbohydrate. Add between 15 and 20 grams of protein to the cold coffee in the blender.
c) Turn on the blender again.
d) Drink it up.
This protein shake is helpful for a lot of people. For many small kids, and many adults, this recipe works about as well as a small dose of Ritalin (100 mg of caffeine is roughly the same as 5 mg of Ritalin). So many who might just take a small dose of Ritalin might get away with just doing this.
Don't forget, though, that even caffeine can have some side effects. Every once in a while we find someone that has problems with the caffeine in the coffee. Usually, though, the caffeine in the coffee helps the person to focus better. The protein helps to feed the brain. If you find this helpful, have one with Breakfast, and one around 3 pm. If it is not helpful, then don't bother with it.
DRINK LOTS OF WATER. The brain is about 80% water, and increasing your water intake to 7 to 10 glasses per day might be very helpful all by itself. Sodas, Gatorade, teas, icees, etc., do not count as water. Only water counts as water.

http://newideas.net/adhd/adhd-diet

Can a nutritional shake be the answer?

2011-06-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Recently a friend of mine introduced me to a shake mix that was designed to deliver balanced nutrition at about the same cost as a drugstore nutritional shake such as "boost" or "ensure".  I frequently used these types of products to give my son added protein throughout the day at school when he was feeling a bit overwhelmed.   The shakes were okay but they only had one flavor Jacob would drink - chocolate.

Once we tried the ViSalus shake, we were hooked. They have so many flavors and different add-ins to change it up a bit so we don't get bored. Jacob really loves them and often asks me to send extra for his friends at school.   His mood has improved and he appears to be getting better grades. I am not sure if it is because of this product or not but there has been some improvement overall and I am pleased.

I have started to see a bit of weight loss also and have decided to try the 90 day challenge that they offer on their website, since we were already ordering the product anyway.  I could stand to lose at least forty pounds so I decided to try it - what do I have to lose other than weight. We are already using the shakes so there is no cost difference than if I buy it at Safeway or ViSalus.

If you have tried it, please let me know your results, I am interested in hearing from others to see if this has made any difference for their child as it has mine. Stay tuned to see if I actually do lose the weight :) It sure would be nice to fit into my skinny jeans again!

Living With ADHD - Learn to Utilize ADHD's Natural Strengths

2010-10-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

Most ADHD discussions pertain to ADHD's potential challenges such as trouble paying attention, impulsivity, or stimulation seeking. ADHD's potential strengths are largely overlooked. In fact, many people are not even aware of them. Even adults with ADHD can focus so much on the challenges that they do not see the potential benefits. Identifying our strengths and learning to highlight them is critical to living with ADHD.

Adults with ADHD tend to be very creative. When I first read that people with ADHD were creative, I found it hard to believe. I only painted a picture in high school are class. I was in high school band but enjoyed only marginal success. Then I realized that creativity comes in many forms. My creativity shows itself during problem solving. I thoroughly enjoying tackling problems that others have difficulty with. For me, it is like giving a hungry dog a thick steak. Often, I will come up with solutions that others did not see. For adults with ADHD it is important to take an objective look at how you use your creativity.

Adults with ADHD are very intuitive. As technology has grown, our society became increasingly scientific. In general, society wants everything proven. They want to be able to touch, see, feel, taste, or hear something. Sometimes, by the time you have hard proof, it is too late to avoid danger. ADHD provides us with "gut feelings". These gut feelings are meant to help us avoid danger. If we learn to listen to these feelings then we can avoid many potentially harmful situations. In business, this intuition can help us spot trends or avoid bad partnerships.

People with ADHD are often very intelligence. Several studies identified a large percentage of people with ADHD also possess above average IQs. This intelligence is not always evident in formal learning environments. Standardized tests are used to test intelligence and learning. People with ADHD tend to have trouble with standardized tests because we read the question, choose, our answer, and go on. We find checking our answers to be tedious. However, when we learn about a subject, especially one we are very interested in, then we show the ability to learn very quickly.

ADHD gives us the ability to hyper focus. ADHD is associated with an inability to pay attention. However, reality is not always the same as perception. It is true that adults living with ADHD are always scanning our environment. This is actually an ancient protection mechanism. But, when we get interested in a topic, task, or job then we can hyper focus. We will actually "tune out" everything else around us but the task at hand. We can learn to harness this trait by pursuing careers we are passionate about or finding ways to make everyday tasks more interesting. For example, I harness my hyper focusing ability by timing mundane tasks. I then will try to beat my best time.

Knowing that ADHD does bring potential benefits is the first step. At first, it may be hard for you to realize they even exist. Society and our doctors tend to focus on the challenges. Realizing that ADHD can make us very creative, intuitive, intelligent, and give us the ability to hyper focus allows us to look for ways to harness these traits. A good first step is to sit down with someone you trust and take stock of these advantages. Look for ways that you currently use these advantages and ways that you can use them more. These advantages can make living with ADHD much easier.

Bruce Carl is the publisher of http://MyADHDSite.com. My ADHD Site offers assistance and resources on both child and adult ADHD.

Understanding Aspects of ADHD Therapy

2010-10-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

ADHD, also known as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is present in about 5% of the world's population. The condition is mainly observed in children, though symptoms can continue on into adulthood. It is considered by many prominent authorities to be a chronic condition and one that requires treatment early on, if children are ever to learn coping mechanisms when they reach adulthood.

One common misconception is that ADHD medication should be prescribed in order to cure ADHD. Not only is there no cure for ADHD-medication should never be prescribed to merely control the symptoms of the disorder. Instead, medication, if necessary, should be combined with ADHD therapy, as well as significant lifestyle changes, behavior modifications, dieting changes and family or professional counseling. Medication is not the treatment-rather, it can help stimulate a person to respond to other forms of treatment. Hence, you will be administering several forms of ADHD treatment during this process.

What results has ADHD therapy seen? Results differ widely. One study, reported on in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, stated that family therapy on its own had no significant improvement in altering a child's ADHD symptoms. Other studies have suggested that psychosocial ADHD therapy has proven helpful for co morbid disorders. ADHD therapy for parents has actually proven to be quite helpful, as this special treatment ensures that parents understand the condition and how to institute new lifestyle and or dieting changes for the child's benefit.

The Benefit of ADHD Therapy

ADHD therapy may also be known as psychotherapy. This is a form of counseling that is much stronger and more professional than just family ADHD therapy. A professional will have a specific goal or set of goals in mind when dealing with a young patient. He or she will attempt to help the child like to accept himself despite the disorder. Professional ADHD therapy is not supposed to confront the child about symptoms or underlying causes; rather, it is with the intent to explore upsetting thoughts and feelings and address self-defeating patterns of behavior. A therapist wants to teach the child alternative ways to handle the negative emotions, perhaps even help the child finds ways of coping that he can carry with him to adulthood.

What are some examples of exercises that might help with ADHD therapy? It may involve instituting better organization in family tasks or schoolwork. It might also involve teaching a child new ways to approach emotionally charged events. Obviously, a child relies on a strong support system with praise or rewards for acting in a desired way. Not only would the therapist aim to monitor the child's progress; he or she may even encourage the child to self-monitor his decisions.

Of course, social skills are a very important factor in ADHD. Therefore, if a child were lacking in social skills, a therapist would concentrate on helping him to learn new behaviors. The therapist may focus on teaching very basic core beliefs involved in creating and maintaining relationships, such as waiting for one's turn, sharing things, asking for help, responding to teasing and so on. The child is given a chance to practice these social responses. The child might also be taught to read other people's facial expressions and take note of their tone of voice.

This is the major difference between family counseling and ADHD therapy. Since family counseling is presided over by non-skilled family members, communication may center on diagnosis of the problem or the symptoms, rather than on practical, textbook solutions. If parents are deeply concerned about enhancing familial communication or if they cannot afford professional therapy, they may try attending parenting skills training classes so that they can better understand progressive treatment for ADHD.

Is There an ADHD Alternative Therapy?

Yes, there is, - there are many actually, and an alternative ADHD medication should actually be the first choice when considering ADHD medications, as it is effective in reducing and healing the symptoms, and are free from unwanted side effects.

For more information visit http://www.curing-adhd-naturally.com

My name is Einar Eskeland. I am a norwegian medical doctor and homoeopath. I promote several high quality sources of knowledge and products for self improvement, evolution, health and growth as a part of my practice as a doctor, and as a help for my patients in their struggle to regain health and balance.

http://www.curing-adhd-naturally.com/

Uncovering the Causes of ADHD in Children

2010-10-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

When a child is diagnosed with ADHD, the biggest shock comes to the parents. Majority of them want to know how children get ADHD. The most common questions which pop up in the mind are - "Did we do something to create it?" or "Are we responsible?"

Well, there is no need for a parent to blame themselves, because though it is a behavioural problem parenting cannot be the reason why children get ADHD. Yes, bad parenting can aggravate the situation but not be the cause of it. Parents constantly blaming themselves will prove as a hindrance and hence it is important to explain how children get ADHD.

Most studies have linked ADHD with genetics. Parents should update themselves with their family history. If any relative has had ADHD, the chances of the child being affected with ADHD are much more. If a close family member has ADHD does the risk increase? Well yes. First degree relatives such as if any parent has ADHD makes the child 5 more times susceptible to ADHD. If a sibling has ADHD, then the chances just increase. Research is currently going on to identify the exact gene which is responsible for ADHD.

So do children get ADHD only from relatives? Well, not necessarily. Sometimes the brain forms an important source of ADHD. The brain has neurotransmitters which send messages from one area to another, telling the body how to act and react. These neurotransmitters are in the form of chemicals. The right amount of chemicals helps a child perform functions normally while excess or less can lead to problems. Dopamine and Norrephinephrine are the two chemicals which contribute to children getting ADHD. Excess of Norrephinephrine leads to agitation and irritation. While it may also make children fidgety. More of Dopamine leads to hyperactivity in children another symptom of ADHD. So it would be right to say that the functioning of the brain is responsible to a certain extent in getting ADHD.

Everyone knows would be mothers are not supposed to have cigarettes, alcohol or drugs as they are harmful for the offspring. Did you know it could also lead the offspring to having ADHD? It is advisable for pregnant women to stay of these toxic substances. Even excess of caffeine can be a cause in the child resulting to be hyperactive. Children can get ADHD as early as when in the mother's womb. Hence extra care should be taken so that the child does not become a receptor of ADHD.

These are the three main ways of children getting ADHD and once you know about them and feel any of them apply to the child it is important to get them checked by a doctor and treat it at the earliest stage.

Puneet writes a blog about ADHD and helps ADHD sufferers to find new treatments in naturopathy and alternative medicine. If you are looking for a well-researched herbal remedy for ADHD, you may read more.

Study of Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) And ADHD Predominantly Inattentive (ADHD-PI)

2010-10-21T04:21:00.000-07:00

A recent Michigan State study published in Child Neuropsychology has looked at almost 600 kids with Predominantly Inattentive ADHD (ADHD-PI) and has subdivided those kids into two types. They studied the type they describe as ADD, kids that have fewer than two of the hyperactive symptoms and compare them to the type they describe as ADHD-PI that is predominantly inattentive but has less than six of the hyperactive symptoms.

The DSM-IV (the manual that psychiatrist use to diagnose ADHD) describes individuals with ADHD-PI as having many inattentive symptoms but fewer than 6 hyperactive symptoms. Essentially the DSM-IV describes the ADHD-PI type of ADHD as individuals who are inattentive but that are normally active.

People and kids who are inattentive and inactive have been described as having Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT). The DSM III recognized this subtype of ADHD but it was done away with in the DSM-IV because of lack of research indicating that this type was significantly different from the 'garden variety' sub-type of ADHD-PI. In this recent study, people with SCT are referred to as individuals with ADD (This is an unfortunate acronym to use as that term has been used to describe people with ADHD-PI.)

The Michigan State researchers found, after careful analysis, that the group that they call ADD had slower processing speed than the individuals that they describe as ADHD-PI. The researchers conclude that this ADD subgroup is a distinct entity which is characterized by slow cognitive processing and no hyperactivity. It seems that this study has teased out the Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) group from the entire group of kids with ADHD-PI.

Most ADHD studies tend to lump all individuals with ADHD-PI together. There are significant differences between individuals with ADHD-PI with SCT symptoms and ADHD-PI individuals without SCT symptoms. We cannot treat all of individuals with ADHD-PI appropriately unless we recognize that individuals with ADHD-PI are not a homogenous group.

Studies such as this Michigan State study are essential because ADHD-PI at the moment is pretty poorly understood. Some psychiatrist and psychologist seem to see all individuals with ADHD-PI as having symptoms of SCT and others insist that the symptoms of ADHD-PI are essentially the same as the symptoms of the Combined type of ADHD (ADHD-C).

My guess is that before the publication of the DSM-V in 2013 more studies, such as this one, will be performed to tease out the differences in ADHD subtypes.

For more information on Primarily Inattentive ADHD please visit Tess Messer at http://www.primarilyinattentiveadd.com/2010/02/why-blog.html. There you will find information on ADHD symptoms, ADHD treatment, alternatives to medications, Information on ADHD vitamins and supplements and much more. Looking forward to meeting you there!!

Understanding ADHD - Busting the Myths

2010-10-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

Don't you hate it when people start saying that your child is misbehaving and that he is uncontrollable? Other people believe that ADHD is not a real disorder and that it is just an excuse for parents who can not control their own child. This is not true and the need for understanding ADHD has become greater. Attention deficit hyperactive disorder is a real disorder that is recognized around the world. There are a lot of misconceptions regarding ADHD and these misconceptions must be corrected. In this article, you will find all the fundamental things you need to help you in understanding ADHD.

A child with ADHD can not control his actions and his inattentiveness. ADHD is a neuro-pyschological disorder that is characterized by impulsiveness, easy distractibility, hyperactivity and poor attention. Imagine speeding down a street at night when all the lights are flashing. You know how all the lights turn into a blur and you just can not help wanting to look at everything at once? That is one way to describe having ADHD. It is a disorder that is not caused by bad parenting or any other environmental factors.

A common misconception regarding ADHD is that it only affects children. Understanding ADHD means that you have to remember that ADHD is a lifelong disorder. Although most children with ADHD grow up mature and well-behaved, there are others who suffer the symptoms of ADHD all throughout their adult life. These adults find a way to cope up with their condition and live with it. Adult ADHD may lead to complications and other problems such as depression, anxiety and increased stress levels. This also causes problems in keeping relationships and work issues.

ADHD is not a curable condition but there are drugs and other therapeutic techniques that can help those people who live with it. Stimulants, specifically Ritalin, are the drugs of choice in treating ADHD. These medications help control the symptoms of ADHD. Schedules and a predictable environment also help in the treatment. Support and encouragement is needed from the relatives and friends of the person with ADHD. Caring for a child with ADHD may often be frustrating but with the right attitude and perspective, it can be easier for you and it would give you more hope.

Understanding ADHD is the first step in treating ADHD or living with ADHD because when you are armed with the information that you need, you will know what to do in various situations. There are a lot of places you can go to and seek help for ADHD and there are even organizations that help the relatives of a patient with ADHD cope up with their loved one's condition.

Now that you have a clear understanding of ADHD, you would think twice before calling a child a problem child.

AD-HD - Vinyl Car Decal Sticker #1691 | Vinyl Color: White

2010-10-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

This is a high quality vinyl decal that can be applied on your car, notebook, computer or just about any smooth surface. Includes Detailed application instructions.

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Driven To Distraction : Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood Through Adulthood

2010-10-19T02:44:00.000-07:00

This clear and valuable book dispels a variety of myths about attention deficit disorder (ADD). Since both authors have ADD themselves, and both are successful medical professionals, perhaps there's no surprise that the two myths they attack most persistently are: (a) that ADD is an issue only for children; and (b) that ADD corresponds simply to limited intelligence or limited self-discipline. "The word disorder puts the syndrome entirely in the domain of pathology, where it should not entirely be. Although ADD can generate a host of problems, there are also advantages to having it, advantages that this book will stress, such as high energy, intuitiveness, creativity, and enthusiasm, and they are completely overlooked by the 'disorder' model." The authors go on to cite Mozart and Einstein as examples of probable ADD sufferers. (The problem as they see it is not so much attention deficit but attention inconsistency: "Most of us with ADD can in fact hyperfocus at times.") Although they warn against overdiagnosis, they also do a convincing job of answering the criticism that "everybody, and therefore nobody" has ADD. Using numerous case studies and a discussion of the way ADD intersects with other conditions (e.g., depression, substance abuse, and obsessive-compulsive disorder), they paint a concrete picture of the syndrome's realities. Especially helpful are the lists of tips for dealing with ADD in a child, a partner, or a family member. --Richard Farr

Price: $16.00

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Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D.? Stopping the Roller Coaster When Someone You Love Has Attention Deficit Disorder

2010-10-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

Winner of four national book awards, including Foreword Magazine's Psychology Book of the Year!
The science has been clear since 1994, when Adult AD/HD was declared a medical diagnosis. Still, the public harbors misconceptions, and that means millions suffer needlessly. And that includes millions of couples who can't understand why their lives together are so hard -- sometimes despite many attempts at couples therapy.

Everyone knows someone with adult AD/HD. Yet we misattribute the symptoms to anxiety, depression, or even laziness, selfishness, or moodiness. Moreover, we assume AD/HD means "little boys with ants in their pants." In fact, childhood hyperactivity goes "underground" as the person matures, resulting in a mentally restless state. (By the way, the former, and still better-known, official term is ADD, plus or minus Hyperactivity. The new term, AD/HD, uses a slash mark to indicate that hyperactivity is not central to the diagnosis.)

Meticulously researched by award-winning journalist Gina Pera, Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D.? is a comprehensive guide to recognizing the behaviors where you least expect them (on the road and in the bedroom, for example) and developing compassion for couples wrestling with unrecognized ADHD symptoms. It also offers the latest information from top experts, plenty of real-life details, and easy-to-understand guidelines for finding the best treatment options and practical solutions. The revolutionary message is one of hope for millions of people--and a joyous opportunity for a better life.

Insightful, helpful, witty, and very practical. This book can change your life.
--Daniel G. Amen, M.D., author of Change Your Brain, Change Your Life

... contains information that is just not available anywhere else. This book is sure to become the authoritative guide for couples dealing with ADD.
--Patricia O. Quinn, M.D., Director, The National Center for Girls and Women with ADHD

...We expect this book will be the bible for all of us dealing with adult ADD.
-- Elizabeth Weathers and Diane Hartson, moderators, ADD Spouse support group

... I can safely predict it will become as much an 'industry standard' as Driven to Distraction.
--David Edelberg, M.D., Medical Director, WholeHealth Chicago

... The book is well researched, reader friendly, and includes insights and perspectives from a Who's Who of professionals. For couples struggling with ADHD, it's the season's new must-have book and bound to become a classic.
--Michele Novotni, Ph.D. Psychologist, Coach

Confirmatory brain neuroscience answers this speculation about Adult ADHD: It s a real problem with real and painful challenges, not a belief system.
-- Charles Parker, DO, Medical Director, CorePsych, author of Deep Recovery

... Gina Pera has combined a real feel for the disorder with sound reporting skills and the spice of those who tell the story best: the couples themselves.
-- Margaret D. Weiss, M.D., Ph.D., Head, Provincial ADHD Program, British Columbia, Canada

... Gina Pera has been there and has authored a guide that offers understanding for the confused, practical strategies for the frustrated, and hope for the despondent. This book will be a lifesaver for both partners.
-- Ari Tuckman, Psy.D., M.B.A., author of Integrative Treatment for Adult ADHD

Price: $21.95

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Isokinetics Balance Ball Chair - with Choice of 52cm Ball and a Pump

2010-10-18T18:24:00.000-07:00
Isokinetics Ball Chairs are the same chairs sold by others, only at a manufacturer direct price. No middleman means no need to pay more! And, we provide all of our chairs with a 1 year guarantee. As an additional bonus, we provide an exclusive exercise ball measuring tape that takes the guesswork out of inflating your ball. Sitting on an exercise ball while at home or work promotes flexibility, coordination, motor skills, core strengthening, and balance. Your body, when positioned on top of an exercise ball, is constantly making small adjustments, often imperceptible, to remain balanced and thus is constantly exercising a large group of muscles in doing so. By strengthening your body's core muscle group you help improve your posture, have better balance and guard against back injuries. It may take time before your body becomes accustom to sitting on an exercise ball, since your core muscles may not have gotten much exercise previously. Start by using it 10 to 15 minutes a day and gradually work your way up. If you have had back problems or injuries, make sure to consult your physician or therapist first. Note: We provide a small, starter pump for free for you to have a way to inflate your ball. However, exercise balls require a lot of air and it will take a lot of pumping with the free pump. So, you may want to consider purchasing at this time a high volume air pump, especially if you use exercise balls a lot or have other things you often inflate, like pool toys or air mattresses.
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FOCUS

2010-10-18T13:40:00.000-07:00
Focus is essentially a fun behavior modification program in a box for children with ADD/ADHD or anyone who needs help focusing better. It is great for families, therapists, and teachers. It is structured to encompass the essential elements of behavior modification, and designed to have the greatest positive impact on attention. This game provides two ways for players to win tokens. Task cards describe tasks that the players have to complete in order to earn their tokens. Each task requires concentration and continuing attention and include: 1. Categories: Players have to list things that belong in a specific category, such as listing five fruits that have alarge pit in the middle. 2. Forward and Back: Players have to recite things forward and/or backwards, such as reciting the alphabet forwards and backwards from A to F. 3. Problem Solving: The game comes with various cut out shapes and cut out words. Using shapes, the players have to create a specific design, like a triangle similar to the pattern on the card, using the shapes provided. Using words the players have to create a sentence with specific words.
A player can elect to perform the task without distraction and win one token or with distraction and win two tokens. The distractions are provided by one of the other players, who picks a Distraction card. This card may ask the distracting player to hum Happy Birthday or tap fingers on the table while the other player is trying to accomplish the task. Distractions are the most common reason people lose focus on the task at hand. This game gives players much needed practice that improves their ability to stay focused on tasks, even with distractions. There are both competitive and cooperative versions for grades 1-12. There are three decks of Task cards with varied levels of difficulty: easier, regular, and challenge. The key is for the players to be able to complete the task most of the time if they concentrate and are not distracted. For 2-5 players.
Price: $34.99

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Foam Tummy Scooter (Red)

2010-10-18T09:50:00.000-07:00
Made of high density foam, the Foam Tummy Scooter is soft, comfortable, and very durable. Safe for gliding indoors and outdoors, this scooter is so comfortable that kids play longer and build their confidence in a variety of positions and activities. Use in sitting, kneeling or prone positions for vestibular and motor planning activities. Strengthens the upper and lower extremities and improves balance, posture, and coordination. Non-marring rubber casters swivel 360°. Supports up to 160 pounds Ages 3 and up. 17"x14"x2.5" Red.
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ADHD T-shirt, AD HD T-shirt, ADD T-shirt

2010-10-18T06:45:00.000-07:00
These hilarious t-shirts are made of a 100% fully machine washable cotton/poly blend for a cool and comfortable fit every time. They feature insanely funny phrases and pictures. Shocking and bold, stand out at the bar, school or just lounge around the house.
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Delivered from Distraction: Getting the Most out of Life with Attention Deficit Disorder

2010-10-18T02:20:00.000-07:00
Medication? Maybe. Marry the right person and find the right job? A must if you are an adult suffering from ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). So say psychiatrists Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey, authors of the influential Driven to Distraction, published in 1994. In their new book, Delivered from Distraction, Hallowell and Ratey survey the current medical landscape concerning ADD, combining their own clinical observations with the latest research to paint a much more complex and, in many ways, positive picture of the condition than has generally been presented.
Hallowell and Ratey embrace the idea that success in life comes more from playing to your strengths than overcoming your weaknesses. In the case of a person with ADD (child or adult), these strengths often include unusually high levels of creativity, charisma, intelligence, and energy. The authors insist that, while medication and other treatments can sometimes work wonders in reducing limitations, surrounding yourself with people who promote these positive traits, be they in your personal or professional life, is the single most important element to living well with ADD. As both Hallowell and Ratey are not only experts in the field, but "ADDers" themselves, the tips and stories they share for how to do so are fresh, funny, and far more helpful than tired arguments over drugs verse no drugs or whether there?s even such a thing as ADD at all.--Patrick Jennings
Price: $15.00

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Classroom Interventions for ADHD (Individual Version)

2010-10-17T21:42:00.000-07:00

Featuring renowned ADHD expert Dr. Russell Barkley, this video is a valuable resource for teachers, school counselors, and all mental health practitioners treating children for ADHD.

Todd, a 3rd grade student, has been diagnosed with ADHD by a treatment team at his school. As Todd s teacher follows through on a treatment plan to address Todd s difficulties in the classroom, leading ADHD expert Dr. Russell Barkley provides advice on creating successful interventions, and George J. DuPaul and Gary Stoner walk us through each step of the treatment approach. Watch as his teacher implements several simple changes in the classroom, leading to Todd getting along better with his classmates, scoring higher on quizzes and maintaining better focus throughout the day.

Comprehensive, informative and easy to follow, this video demonstrates a practical approach to treating ADHD within the schools.

From watching this video, you will:

Learn several simple classroom techniques to address a child s problems with focus and concentration resulting from ADHD.

Get real and practical information about ADHD, the keys to successful treatment, and the pros and cons of different approaches.

See how to effectively collaborate with a treatment team, which may include family, teachers, school administrators, and mental health practitioners.

This video is licensed for individual private viewing only. For teaching, group, and institutional use, please purchase the Institutional/Instructor's version. A companion video, Assessing ADHD in the Schools, is also available.
Price: $39.00

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ADHD What Can We Do? Russell A. Barkley

2010-10-17T17:10:00.000-07:00
Develop peak-performance mental states with the electronic music of J. S. Epperson and designer mixes of Hemi-Sync concentration frequencies for super-learning and creative flow. The whole-brain states made possible by Indigo are perfect for any mental task requiring focus and concentration and may also be helpful for ADD/ADHD, dyslexia and other learning challenges. Zero in on the task at hand with this extraordinary composition whenever you desire to enhance your mental performance and creative flow (71 min.)
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Adhd T-shirt (Mens Black)

2010-10-17T14:09:00.000-07:00
AD HD T-shirt (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Do you have ADHD? Probably not but since people think you do, you may as well wear this AD HD shirt. Exclusively from Bewild, this new ADHD T-shirt features a hard-core saying that says it all. From "Lick Here For Full View" to "Skanky white-trailer trash". How about a t-shirt that says "Dip me in Chocolate and throw me to the lesbians?" Our short sleeve "AD/HD" t-shirts are made from a 100% fully machine washable preshrunk cotton for a cool and comfortable fit every time
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