Russell A. Barkley, PhD, is considered an expert nationally and internationally on Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). He has spent decades doing extensive research, writing prolifically about the disorder, and working with people who have ADHD. His Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (Third Edition) is a textbook packed with the most up-to-date research and information available about ADHD. Since so many people struggle with ADHD and have so little knowledge about it, I want to share some of the wealth of Dr. Barkley’s knowledge and expertise in this area. Understanding the facts about ADHD can help you make decisions for your life or the lives of your loved ones based on knowledge rather than myths.
ADHD is far more influenced by neurological and genetic factors than by social or environmental causes; if a child has ADHD, usually a parent also has the disorder. A deficit in behavioral inhibition may be the characteristic of ADHD that distinguishes it from other mental and development disorders. This disorder is associated with a significant disruption in the development of typical self-regulation. ADHD includes a problem with behavioral (executive) inhibition.
People who have ADHD often have other disorders that cause disruption in quality of life and academic and job success. Coexisting conditions for children may include Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, depression, and anxiety disorders. Adults may experience a variety of psychological concerns that coexist with ADHD.
Research has shown that medication treatment with stimulants has been found to be superior to psychological treatment. Psychological treatment can provide education about the disorder, time management training, structure and life skills in the home and school/work environment, and modifications in life style. A combination of medication and therapy for parents, families, and the person diagnosed with ADHD has proven to be effective. The medication becomes effective usually within an hour of ingestion and will last for periods of 8 to 12 hours. Strattera was approved for use in the United States in 2003 by the FDA. This medication has no abuse potential and is easier to prescribe than stimulants. Concerta has a sustained released delivery system and has proven to be effective for many people who have ADHD. Adderall XR is an amphetamine that is also prescribed for the disorder. Your physician can make the determination on which medication is right for you.
ADHD is a somewhat chronic disorder that affects many major life activities from childhood through adolescence and into adulthood. ADHD is recognized as a universal disorder with acceptance internationally of its existence and its chronic disabling condition.
I usually close each of my writings with “It’s Profoundly Simple, Simply Profound,” but there is nothing simple about ADHD. It is a complex disorder that brings great struggle and suffering for those who have the condition, as well as their families and loved ones. (Information for this post was taken from pages 36 to 40 of Dr. Barkley’s above-mentioned book.)
We struggled with ADHD in our family before we ever knew it was a legitimate condition. Prior to diagnosis, family members were self-treating with caffeine (a stimulant), not realizing that’s what they were doing. It’s certainly a complex problem that affects the whole family, but correct diagnosis and treatment are hugely beneficial.
ADHD makes family life chaotic and difficult for everyone. The sooner parents address the issues of ADHD the better it is for the whole family.