KIDS TAKING MEDICATION IN NEW BRUNSWICK ARE DOOMED!!!! ALL THANKS GOES TO THE NEW BRUNSWICK HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION!!!!

adhd, originally uploaded by Oldmaison.

With this very sad verdict they made of how adults with ADHD should be treated? It's very very very scary in New Brunswick!!!!


Posted on Tue, May. 16, 2006
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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder not just a kids’ problem
Studies show that 80 percent of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder continue to struggle with ADHD as adults
Linda Lewis Griffith
Special to the Tribune
Knight Ridder Tribune

ADHD is a disorder that only affects children, right? Wrong!

While it was once believed that youngsters outgrew attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder by adolescence, experts now agree that symptoms continue into adulthood.

It is estimated that about

5 percent of all Americans are afflicted with ADHD. That equals about 10 million people. Further studies show that 80 percent of ADHD children grow into ADHD adults. Millions of grownups may be struggling with the disorder, yet be unaware of their condition.

Adult attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder can look different than the childhood version. Children tend to experience hyperactivity and impulsivity. They have trouble sitting still in the classroom and may pester other youngsters or blurt out in the middle of a lesson.

That hyperactivity generally diminishes with age. Instead, adults tend to feel restless or fidgety. They may engage in endless toe tapping or have problems sitting through full-length movies.

Adults with ADHD have difficulties managing their time, balancing their checkbooks or following through on tasks. They also feel hopelessly scattered or out of control.

Concerned that you may have adult ADHD? Then consider the following descriptions:

• One of my school-age offspring is being treated for ADHD.

• I was restless, impulsive and distractible as a child.

• I often misplace things.

• I am impatient.

• My spouse complains that I don’t listen well.

• I am often late.

• I procrastinate a lot.

• I frequently feel overwhelmed.

• I have trouble completing tasks.

• I have low self-esteem.

• My life feels like it’s out of control.

If these statements fit you to a tee, then consider taking these steps:

1. Get evaluated. You’ll need an experienced clinician to make the final diagnosis. But once you’ve identified the culprit, you’ll know where to turn for treatment.

2. Consider medication. Because ADHD is a neurochemical disorder, your symptoms may require medication. The same medications that are used for children are also given to adults. Most physicians will begin by prescribing a stimulant, such as Ritalin, Adderall or Concerta.

3. Educate yourself. Knowledge is definitely power when it comes to treating your adult ADHD. Read books. Talk with professionals. Share with other adults who have the disorder. You’ll be able to design that just-right treatment program for yourself.

4. Create external structure. Go to bed at the same time every night. Eat meals at approximately the same time throughout the day. Place your wallet and keys in the same spot when you come home. Your life will feel less stressful and you’ll gain a new sense of control.

5. Embrace organizational tools. Write lists so you don’t forget to do things. Use sticky notes at your work station or on your bathroom mirror to remind yourself of daily must-dos. Buy a datebook and write down appointments. You’ll be organizing your thoughts as you organize your day.

6. Prioritize. Before tackling several problems, decide which is most important and complete that one first.

7. Break large tasks into small ones. Need to clean out your bedroom closet and drawers? Then set a kitchen timer for 30 minutes and work until the time is up.

Repeat daily until the chore is finished. You’ll feel less overwhelmed and you’ll start to empower yourself.

--Linda Lewis Griffith is a local marriage and family therapist. E-mail her at lindalewisgriffith@sbcglobal.net.