ADHD attention

The use of Ritalin in ADHD has been debated since the 1970’s. Some of the more popular debates are; it is over diagnosed, teachers want students to be on it so that they are more attentive and easier to teach, use of a stimulate with a minor who is unable to give consent, addicting, the American Medical Association is forcing it on people, along with drug company kick backs in sales. Some say that this disorder doesn’t even exist. Ritalin is a drug that is a stimulate used to treat children with ADHD symptoms. Statistics however indicate that the U.S. is the world leader in the use of Ritalin. Other debates are about the methods used to diagnosis and treat, negative stereotyping of children or there can be other diseases that can be mistaken for ADHD. The use of Ritalin has many undesirable side effects like stunting of growth, depression, insomnia, skin rashes, anorexia nervosa, headaches, pains, nervousness, dizziness, and tourette’s syndrome. The use of the drug could lead to bipolar or schizophrenia. Another controversy is that no one knows the long term effects by the use of these medications. Ritalin is a popular street drug for abuse because it is accessible and cheap which can lead to higher street crime. Ritalin and cocaine both stimulate the release of dopamine into the brain and can have similar effects. Drug users can use Ritalin by crushing and snorting, or cooking, and injecting it into their bodies with the similar effect of cocaine. Some people debate that Ritalin is ordered for a person by a physician with correct dosing unlike street drugs. If it is used properly by being taken by mouth it is absorbed by the stomach, not directly into the blood stream, therefore not addicting like cocaine.

The best treatment for this disorder is drug therapy. Therapy helps people perform tasks better, perform better in school and helps control aggression. If untreated they often can experience peer rejection because of their disruptive behaviors. Untreated ADHD combined with conduct disorders can lead to drug abuse and antisocial behavior. Behavior therapy includes using a token reward program and time outs. Psychotherapy has the child talk about things that bother them, explore negative behavior, and learn better ways to deal with their symptoms. Parenting skills training can be provided to help parents learn to understand and guide their child’s behavior. Family therapy can be provided to help siblings and relatives deal with the stress of the disorder. Social skills training can be used to teach the children about using more appropriate social behavior. Support groups can be used to give the children and parents a network of people to provide support. Ritalin is a popular drug used in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However in the 1980’s there were several lawsuits made against drug production companies because of the misuse.

There are some techniques that can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Yoga and meditation help to relax the body and lessen hyperactivity. Eliminating foods with sugar and caffeine can make a difference.