What is ADHD?

I. What is ADHD?

ADHD is a common disorder among children, adolescents, and adults that causes inattentiveness and hyperactivity.

II. Treatments of ADHD

1. Long-acting stimulants- this type of treatment can help treat a child for up to twelve hours at a time. They only have to be taken once daily so this will help cut down on a child being embarrassed in front of other children.

2. Short-acting stimulants- this type of treatment is more successful in treating children and adolescents, but they must be taken two to three times daily.

3. Behavioral therapy- this form of treatment is used on children who are too young to be treated with medication.

4. Combination of stimulant medication and behavioral therapy- this form of treatment is the best type of treatment.

III. Effects of Treatment

1. Adverse side effects

2. Academic failure

3. Nausea

4. Suicidal thoughts

5. Suicide attempts

6. Hallucinations

IV. Controversy of Treatment

1. Children who do not actually suffer from ADHD are being diagnosed and treated.

2. The FDA is planning to add warning to all stimulant medications that are used to treat ADHD.