ADD is one of the most controversial subjects in psychotherapy today. Formerly simply called ADD (for Attention Deficit Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a more recently coined term that describes attention deficit (the inability to focus attention) combined with hyperactivity (extreme over-activity). Clinically, these are considered to be 2 separate conditions but related disorders, but are often mistakenly considered the same. ADHD most commonly occurs in children, while adults more often have ADD. Many experts believe that adult ADD is an outgrowth of childhood ADHD. Although the terms are relatively new, ADD/ADHD have been recognised as disorders since 1902.
Estimates of the prevalence of ADHD vary widely, with some authorities saying it affects as little of 3% of children and others saying it affects up to 10%. This is largely where the controversy about ADD and ADHD lies. Where do you draw the line between a restless, active youth and a hyperactive child who needs medical intervention? Some critics say that ADHD medications are over-prescribed in Australia, while others say that many parents are "in denial" about their child's condition. Who's right? More importantly, how does a responsible parent determine the difference between a normal, active child and a hyperactive child who needs medical treatment?
What the Experts Say About ADD
Biologically, ADD is understood to be a neurodevelopmental disorder resulting from a deficit of certain brain chemicals and electrical activity in the frontal lobes of the brain that are responsible for self-control. This deficit affects the brain's executive functions, hence an individual with ADD experiences difficulty focusing on their daily activities or controlling their actions and behaviour. Medications for ADD supply the chemicals and/or stimulate the electrical activity necessary to resume a normal life.
Unlike many diseases, ADD/ADHD cannot be diagnosed by a blood test. Instead, it is diagnosed by a psychological evaluation. Normal, healthy children are sometimes hyperactive, unable to concentrate and nearly impossible to keep under control. If these behaviours are chronic and severe, then most experts agree that intervention is required. Some things psychologists and counsellors take into consideration to help them diagnose ADD/ADHD include:
- Symptoms of ADD/ADHD will appear in school, at home and outside the home. If a child has difficulty at school, but can focus on tasks at home (or vice versa), it is probably not ADD/ADHD.
- Many children become fidgety and restless when they have to sit still for long periods. Children with ADHD stand out as excessively restless and cannot settle down, even for short periods of time.
- ADD is not just a "study" problem. A child with ADD will exhibit the symptoms even when watching TV or engaging in other leisure activities or social interactions.
- ADD/ADHD does not arise spontaneously. A child must have exhibited the symptoms of the disorder for at least six months for it to be considered a disease that requires treatment.
What Causes ADD?
Health professionals have not completely pinpointed ADD's cause, but research has linked genes, brain development and environmental factors to it. Because ADD affects the brain structures, many ADD diagnoses are found in children who have a parent or sibling with the same condition or another type of ADHD.
Low birth weight from premature birth, a traumatic brain injury, and mothers who consumed alcohol, smoked, or used drugs while pregnant are other risk factors. In spite of claims that it could be caused by excessive sugar consumption and food preservatives, researchers stressed that there is no empirical evidence to support these.
What are Symptoms of ADD?
One of the three subtypes of ADHD, attention deficit disorder is characterized by symptoms of inattention. Unlike the impulsive type, it does not include symptoms of hyperactivity or high levels of activity during inappropriate situations. However, the third and most common type of ADHD, called combined type ADHD, presents both inattentive symptoms coupled with hyperactive behaviours. While not all children with ADD can develop the third type, it is possible for them to develop hyperactive symptoms or feelings of restlessness if their condition is not addressed right away. Among the most common symptoms of attention deficit disorder are:
- Daydreaming for a long period of time
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty focusing attention on tasks
- Short attention span
- Poor listening skills that lead to careless mistakes
- Gets easily distracted
- Losing personal things
- Disorganised
- Difficulty doing regular daily tasks
What is the Best Treatment for ADD?
Parents of children who become absent-minded from time to time should not worry as this happens to all of us, even adults. However, if their absentmindedness disrupts their everyday life or if they start behaving inappropriately at home, in school or in social situations, these could be signs of attention deficit order.
The most effective treatment for this condition is the combination of medication, generally stimulant medications and behavioural therapy. Don't give your child any medicine without consulting a mental health professional first. A variety of mental disorders may manifest alongside symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and its subtypes. For your child to receive an accurate diagnosis, a qualified health professional should examine them. Should they turn out to be suffering from anxiety disorders or a mood disorder, such as bipolar disorder, the doctor will be able to prescribe the most appropriate treatment plan.
How is ADD Diagnosed?
In order to determine if your child requires stimulant or nonstimulant medications, counselling or behavioural therapy, the doctor will conduct a thorough physical and psychological examination, as well as look at your child's medical and family history.
Although ADD falls under the ADHD umbrella, this inattentive type requires a treatment program that's quite different to what a person with impulsive symptoms would require. Standard treatments don't cure the condition; they can only alleviate the person's symptoms. Natural treatments can be used as adjunct therapies to address the root of the problem and improve the patient's condition.
Are There Any Natural Treatments for ADD?
Perhaps even more controversial than the condition itself are the claims that natural treatments for ADD/ADHD work. Whilst proponents of natural therapies for ADD cite many success stories, critics say that natural treatments can provide only temporary relief at best and don't address the underlying cause of the disease. Some of the more common natural treatments for ADD include:
While these are highly controversial, 2 drug-free therapies have been recognised as having potential long term benefits:
- Biofeedback enables sufferers to learn how to control their impulses and focus their attention.
- Interactive metronome and music therapy is a form of sound therapy that has been shown to help ADD sufferers learn to focus their attention and gain control over negative behaviours.
ADD/ADHD is a highly emotionally charged condition. For this reason, it is important to seek out professional, impartial help in determining if your child suffers from it and what steps should be taken to correct it if it is diagnosed as such. Self-diagnosis or the opinion of a teacher or other untrained observer is not enough. A holistic doctor, who understands the benefits of both conventional medicine and natural therapies may be able to help you determine what type of treatment, if any, is best for your child.
Originally published on Apr 05, 2013
