Experts Want Insurance Companies to Pay for Early Treatment for Autism

One of the foremost experts on autism is urging parents to have their babies screened for the disorder as early as possible, and to start treatment in children as young as 14 months.

Autism can be detected before age two, yet the average age of diagnosis is four and a half, according to Dr. Patricia Wright, a specialist at the Hawaii Department of Child and Adolescent Health.

Dr. Wright says that early intervention may be the best hope for autistic children, who now number almost one in 150. Such treatment costs as much as $50,000 a year, because it involves about 25 hours a week of one-on-one or one-on-two teaching. However, Dr. Wright says such intervention offers autistic children the best chance of growing up to become productive adults. Insurance coverage is cost-effective, she says, because "they learn independent skills so they don't need continued lifelong support."

Dr. Wright and other experts are asking government agencies and insurance companies to pay for treatment in young children, though outcome-based evidence is scant at this time. However, researchers at the University of Washington are currently studying whether early intervention can prevent the disorder in siblings of children with autism. Their results may determine the fate of early intervention programs.

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Treatment Options

The phrase "ADHD treatment options" typically calls to mind various medications, like Ritalin, Adderall, and others. But there are options for those who don't want to take, or don't want their kids to take, prescription pills.

"Although it is now a routine part of most ADD treatments nowadays, at the time, biofeedback was a pioneering technique. Basically, I would be set up at a laptop computer with a compact disc of my choosing inside. When my brain was acting in a certain way characteristic of concentration, the music would turn on. When my brain stopped acting that way, the music would turn off."

Treatments like biofeedback and other forms of behavioral therapy may not eliminate the need for medication, but they can help make lower doses more effective. Read more at KeepSoundHealth.com.

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Dr. Drew Talks About ADHD

He's best known for his radio show Loveline, and his VH-1 television program Celebrity Rehab. But in this interview with LAist, Dr. Drew Pinsky spends a considerable amount of time talking about the realities of ADHD.

"Are alternative treatments for ADD or ADHD, such as changing diet, effective? 'That clearly has been shown to have no effect. Listen, those studies are not neuropsychiatrically tested. Not good stuff. It's very clear if you have a kid with that problem there are two interventions. One is behavioral interventions, which are really quite good, and pharmacological interventions. But once again, these are complicated cases that need to be followed up by skillful people.'"

Dr. Pinsky also stresses the importance of having a child properly diagnosed by a "neuropsychiatric forum" rather than a primary care physician. Read more at LAist.com.

Role of Meds Shrinking?

A recent study by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has some pediatricians and professors calling for restraint and caution in the prescription of medication for the treatment of ADHD. The NIMH study has found that children who used psychosocial or behavioral treatment instead of medication had essentially "caught up" with those children who used medication.

"'While results of one study rarely justify drastic changes of practice, the findings underscore the complexity of ADHD, show that stimulant drugs are far from being a silver bullet and that there is much we do not yet know,' Prof [Joseph] Rey wrote in the latest Medical Journal of Australia."

He acknowledges that stimulant medication still plays a role in the treatment of ADHD, but warns that it should not be considered the only, or even the best, form of treatment. Read more at En.EpochTimes.com.

Experts Call for New Approach to ADHD

Results of a long-term study conducted by researchers at UCLA have the medical community calling for an upgrade to the diagnostic and treatment criteria for ADHD. This first-of-its-kind study found that only about half of the children who were diagnosed with ADHD exhibit the cognitive issues most commonly associated with the condition.

"Part of the explanation may lie in the common method for diagnosing the disorder. ADHD is an extreme on a normal continuum of behavior that varies in the population, much like height, weight or IQ. Its diagnosis, and thus its prevalence, is defined by where health professionals 'draw the line' on this continuum, based on the severity of the symptoms and overall impairment."

Another finding that has raised eyebrows is that, in Finland - where the study was conducted, ADHD is rarely treated with medication like it is in the United States. Despite that, ADHD "looked" the same in both countries, regardless of whether it was being treated medically, which raises questions as to the effectiveness of current ADHD treatments. Read more at PsychCentral.com.

Managing Your Child's ADHD throughout the Year

Weekends, vacations, and other long breaks from school can be especially challenging for parents of children with ADHD. One recommendation is to use an individualized treatment plan that includes a medication patch like Daytrana.

"Clinical studies have shown that Daytrana's novel design provides a continuous flow of medication when worn for the 9-hour recommended wear time. Alternatively, Daytrana can be applied later in the day if the child sleeps late on weekends or start activities later during the summer or holiday season, and can still be removed at the usual time."

If your child has been prescribed ADHD medication, it's helpful if the doses can be tailored to your child's activity level and schedule. Talk with your doctor about the best options for creating an individualized treatment plan. Read more at HealthNewsDigest.com.

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Study of Kids with ADHD Raises Questions About Drug Treatments

A study of Attention Deficit Disorder among Finnish children reinforces the idea that children outgrow some of their symptoms, but also raised some questions about the long-term effectiveness of medications as a treatment for the condition.

Dr. Susan Smalley, of the University of California/Los Angeles, used data from a longitudinal Finnish study begun in 1986. Researchers from Finland's University of Oulu and Imperial College in London collected information on 9,432 children from the time of their mothers' pregnancies until adolescence. About 457 of the children were evaluated for ADHD and other psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Smalley found that symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity decreased as the children grew older, but symptoms of inattention continued into adolescence. Only about half the adolescents diagnosed with ADHD had cognitive deficits in working memory, inhibition, etc that are commonly associated with ADHD. Those with cognitive defects did not show increased levels of inattention or hyperactivity compared to others with ADHD.

Youth in Finland rarely take medications for ADHD. Dr. Smalley found that when she compared children with ADHD in Finland who did not take drugs to those in the United States who did, she could conclude that prevalence, symptoms, psychiatric comorbidity and cognition was equivalent for both groups.

"We know medication is very effective in the short-term, but the study raises important questions concerning the efficacy of ADHD treatment," she said.

Two genes labeled DBH and DRD2 that regulate dopamine were associated with ADHD in the Finnish population of adolescents.

This study appears in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

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Medication-Free Treatment

Many parents of children with ADHD and other developmental disabilities are looking for treatments that require little or no medication. A program in Beverly, Massachusetts offers that kind of program.

"Goodchild's treatment is based on the theory that simple movements like crawling are critical to a child's brain development, and he believes that recreating those developmental milestones will help heal the brain. 'We can use movement to correct what's been mis-wired,' he said."

Though the method has been around for decades, there's no scientific proof that is actually works. There is however, mounting experiential evidence as parents see dramatic results in their children's behaviors after enrolling them in similar programs.

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Symptoms of ADD/ADHD

Most of the articles in this blog share treatment options and other stories related to ADD/ADHD. But sometimes it's good to go back to the beginning, so we've included an article that gives a general overview of the symptoms you should watch for if you're concerned that your child may have ADD/ADHD.

"Understanding your child's possible ADD/ADHD is imperative to getting along with him or her. The earlier ADD/ADHD is identified in your child, the more time you have to work with and understand your kid."

If your child has the symptoms outlined here, it doesn't necessarily mean that he or she has ADD/ADHD. But he or she should be evaluated by a professional who's qualified to determine whether your child one of these disorders, and to what degree.

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Scientists Develop Unique ADHD Accessory

At John Carroll University in Ohio, a team of scientists have developed a clever aid for people with ADHD or sleep disorders; a simple pair of glasses that block blue light. By blocking blue light, a person's circadian rhythm is advanced, causing melatonin to be released sooner.

"Normally, melatonin flow does not begin until after the individual goes into darkness. Studies indicate that promoting the earlier release of melatonin results in marked decline of ADHD symptoms."

The glasses are meant to be worn for the two hours prior to bedtime. The team has also developed alternatives to the glasses - light bulbs and nightlights that also block blue rays.

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Be Cautious of ADHD Diagnosis

Concern is increasing over the proper diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in children. Numerous recent studies have found that misdiagnosis and over-prescription of medication are likely. One study in particular notes a 700% increase in prescription medications to treat "child behavior problems" during the 1990s.

"More recently, national research has documented that less than one-third of primary-care physicians adhere to established diagnostic criteria."

An expert panel convened in 1998 determined that, while ADHD as a disorder does exist, it probably affects only 3 - 5 percent of children. In contrast, upwards of 14 percent of boys in America have been diagnose with ADHD. Though this information shouldn't scare parents, it should remind them that caution is required when seeking an appropriate diagnosis for behavioral issues in children.

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Parents Medication Guide

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, in partnership with the American Psychiatric Association, has published the ADHD Parents Medication Guide intended to help parents navigate the sometimes confusing waters surrounding ADHD treatment.

"As a parent or guardian of a child or teenager diagnosed with ADHD, you may be aware of the debate surrounding the medication used to treat this condition. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed several research studies involving children and adolescents who were prescribed medication for ADHD and concluded that these medications are effective and that the risks associated with these medications are known and can be managed."

Some of the topics covered in the guide include "side effects & ADHD medication", "school & the child with ADHD" and even "unproven treatments".

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Miscommunication Complicates ADHD Treatment

A new study has found that differing perceptions between parents and doctors regarding an ADHD child's most concerning behaviors is complicating treatment.

"...parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are concerned with behaviors such as aggression and defiance, while pediatric psychiatrists focus on associated mental health conditions including depression, bipolar and learning disabilities."

The differing opinions mean that behaviors parents are most concerned about often go unaddressed. Researchers hope the study will help doctors and parents find common ground to ensure that children with ADHD are receiving the best treatment possible.

Finding Balance with Doctors

Parents and pediatricians have the same goals; to keep children healthy, happy, and on a positive developmental path. But they sometimes have differing ideas of how to achieve those goals. As a parent, how do you get past the roadblock (or avoid it altogether) when a pediatrician's suggested treatment goes against your parental experience or instinct?

"The trick here [Dr. Delia Chiaramonte] says, is to stand firm, even when you know you're annoying the doctor. 'You have to let go of the desire to be the good patient and make everyone like you,' she says. She recommends questioning the doctor thoroughly."

Respect the pediatrician's years of study and practice, but make sure he or she respects your knowledge and experience as a parent as well. When it comes to your child's care, ask all the questions you need to, don't be afraid to questions a diagnosis if a treatment isn't working, and exercise your right to get a second (even a third and fourth) opinion.

Including Dads

When University at Buffalo student Greg Fabiano started working with parents of children with ADHD, he noticed that many of the dads were missing. He tried to find some research that would explain why so many fathers were absent, but he found none - so he started conducting some research of his own.

"His new research program, designed for children 6-12 years of age, includes two formats: a control group of fathers and children who receive traditional, evidence-based treatments for ADHD families and another group that receives the same, plus a sports element - in this case, soccer games."

Fabiano says the results have been remarkable. Treatment drop-out rates for both fathers and children have decreased significantly and there's very little tension on the soccer field (which is unusual for kids with ADHD).

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Diagnosing and Treating ADHD

Diagnosing ADHD isn't something that a parent or teacher can do by themselves. It takes a team of people to properly evaluate a child's behavior and form a proper diagnosis. Some of the more common characteristics of ADHD are occasionally observed in kids who don't have ADHD, so establishing a patter is important.

"One thing that I have found is that there is a huge division about whether to use medication to treat the disorder (after it has been properly diagnosed) or not. People are completely against or completely for the medication...So speaking as a parent of a hyperactive child, I believe you need to keep an open mind, do lots of research and ask LOTS of questions."

Remember that if you make a decision that doesn't seem to work for your child, you can change your decision. You're not "locked in" for life. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, remember that physical activities can help your child manage the "hyperactive" part of the disorder.

Therapeutic boarding schools, like Stone Mountain School, help boys with ADHD learn to control their behaviors as they earn school credits.

Alternatives for Children with ADHD

An estimated 5 to 10 percent of children in America have either ADD or ADHD. There is a wide range of treatments available for these disorders, most of which involve some sort of medication. But some parents are uncomfortable with the idea of giving medication to their kids, especially if their kids are very young, so Amanda Fey, a naturopathic doctor in New York, has compiled a list of alternative treatments that parents may wish to consider.

"If your child had been diagnosed with ADHD, remember that pharmaceutical drugs aren't the only solution available. Supplementing with critical nutrients and improving children's diets have proved to be extremely beneficial in many scientific research studies; therefore, making it a sensible alternative solution for parents to explore."

Food additives have been shown to aggravate ADHD symptoms in children, as has a lack of both Omega-3 fatty acids and iron. Before adding nutritional supplements (especially iron), have your child's overall health evaluated to determine if he's lacking either of these. As for the food additives, they're almost impossible to avoid altogether but can be greatly reduced by preparing meals at home and reducing a child's intake of junk food and other sweets.

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Computer Program Improves Attention

Professor Torkel Klingberg of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology recently conducted a study that measured the working memory (WM) functions of children with ADHD. Working memory is a common problem for people with ADHD and Dr. Klingberg's study explored the connection between WM problems and other ADHD symptoms.

"In a preliminary study, Klingberg found that a training of WM tasks can enhance executive functioning including working memory, response inhibition and reasoning in children with ADHD. The [follow-up] trial included 53 children with ADHD and revealed a significant treatment effect both at intervention and follow-up."

The results of both studies seem to indicate that systematic development of working memory in children with ADHD helps reduce other symptoms both during the treatment and up to three months afterwards. Parents of the children who were involved in the study also reported a significant decrease in their children's symptoms.

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Prognosis Good for Kids Who get Treatment

When it comes to kids and ADHD, reports and studies abound that document increased risks for substance abuse and decreased academic potential. It's enough to make a parent feel like their kid has no chance at a "normal" life. But a study conducted over the summer shows that most ADHD children who are treated - either with medication, behavior therapy or both - improve over time.

"The roles of specific therapies and educational strategies remain unclear... For now, parents should know that treating ADHD, early and with vigor, can make a difference, says Anne Teeter Ellison, a psychologist and president of an advocacy group called Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder..."

Studies have also found that improvement comes as young brains develop and mature. So while there may be a lot of "doom and gloom" reports out there, there are also valid reasons to believe that a child with ADHD can look forward to a bright, productive future.

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Benefits and Side Effects of Concerta

Concerta was the first time-released formula ever marketed for the treatment of ADHD. The once-daily treatment is one of several options for treating ADHD symptoms, and has both benefits and side effects of which parents should be aware.

"The Concerta capsule has an outer coat of medication that dissolves quickly, and then two small compartments of medication inside that release gradually. The time-released system of the Concerta capsule provides up to 12-hour coverage and provides more even coverage for ADHD symptoms but there are a few drawbacks with the capsule form."

One drawback is that, because of the pill's design, it can't be cut to decrease the dosage. Also, because of the 12-hour coverage, the drug's manufacturer suggests skipping a day's dose if it isn't taken early in the morning. The 12-hour time-release also means that normal sleep patterns may still be disrupted even if the pill is taken early. As with any medication, a doctor should be consulted before a final decision is made, and prescription instructions should be carefully followed.

Prevalence far Exceeds Treatment

Colleagues at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center who studies over 3,000 children found that the number of children who exhibits signs of ADHD far exceeds the number that are being treated.

"Based on standard diagnostic criteria, 8.7 percent of the children fulfilled criteria for ADHD in the year prior to the survey... Among children meeting criteria for ADHD, 39 percent had received some medication treatment and 32 percent were treated consistently with ADHD medications during the previous year."

Additionally, less than half of the children who met the ADHD criteria had been previously diagnosed. Read more at News-Medical.net.

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Tips for Vyvanse

Vyvanse, one of the newest ADHD treatment drugs, has been on the market since July, 2007. To date, the feedback has been excellent. Dr. Charles Parker offers some tips for parents, children and/or patients considering Vyvanse to treat ADHD.

"Always start at the lower dose: 30mg which roughly equals Adderall XR 10mg. They may be on higher doses, even 40 mg of the Adderall XR, but always go low and slow. It’s more efficacious [effective], and if you start at 50mg which roughly equals 20mg Adderall XR, it can give them an unpleasant feeling."

Because Vyvanse is a slow-release medication, taking another dose later in the day shouldn't be necessary. Dr. Parker also advises that the body tolerates psych meds better if accompanied by a protein breakfast. Read more at CorePsychBlog.com.

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Treatments for Kids with ADHD Work, but Need Monitoring

A new study from the National Institute of Health suggests that treatments for Attention Deficit Disorder can help youngsters, but doctors need to monitor them from time to time.

Researchers assigned 600 children ages 6 to 9 years randomly to one of four treatment groups. The first group received medications from ADHD specialists. The second received medications and behavioral therapy. The third group received drugs from their family doctors, and finally the last group received only therapy. After fourteen months, the first two groups improved the most. However, three years later, all four groups showed similar improvements and the advantages of medications waned.

"Many kids do better over time," said Peter Jensen, director of Columbia University's Center for the Advancement of Children's Mental Health. "They should start drugs and stop as needed."

This study appears in the August issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

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Alternative to Medication

Until recently, freshman Sophie Bell was taking medication to treat her ADHD symptoms. But she didn't like how "shaky" the medication made her feel, so she and her mom started looking for alternatives. They found Dr. Martin Rosen, a chiropractor.

"He believes ADHD can start with a misalignment in the spine which affects the body's balance and ultimately how the brain functions."

Indeed, after a series of treatments, both Sophie and her mom noticed a difference in her ability to focus. She eventually stopped taking her medication altogether. Read more online.

Find more alternative treatments for ADHD in our ADHD Directory.

Medication Isn't Always What's Needed

The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities issued a statement on Sunday stating that medication shouldn't be the first course of action for children or adolescents who are diagnosed with ADHD.

"While pharmacological treatments are found to treat ADHD successfully, research shows that interventions such as family and/or group therapy and other behavioral supports should be used prior to pharmacological treatments. In addition, research findings have shown medications to be beneficial when used in combination with behavioral treatment for children and adolescents that do not respond to behavioral strategies alone."

The statement goes on to suggest that parents and children weigh the risks and benefits of medication carefully and that if a decision is made to try medication the patient should start with the lowest dose possible. Read more at Tennessean.com.

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Tonsil Removal Helps ADHD in Some Kids

Recent studies are beginning to find an unusual link between ADHD in young children and their tonsils. More specifically, of kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD and had their tonsils removed, about half see diminished ADHD symptoms; or the symptoms disappear altogether.

"In one recent study, at the University of Michigan, 22 children with ADHD and sleep-disordered breathing had adenotonsillectomies [their tonsils removed]. After one year, 11 no longer battled ADHD."

The link seems to be between the tonsils and adenoid, and a child's sleep patterns. The tonsils and adenoid can partially block a child's airway when he lies down. The result is disturbed sleep patterns, and in some children (especially young children) lack of sleep causes hyperactivity and acting out that often gets worse the longer the child is sleep deprived. Read more at AZFamily.com.

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Maintaining Eye Contact Improves Compliance

A study published in a recent issue of the Journal of Attention Disorders determined that children with ADHD are more likely to respond positively to a parent's request if the parent maintains eye contact for an extended period of time. Seventy-six families participated in the study and were divided into three groups: one that used behavioral techniques without extended eye contact, one that included eye contact, and one control group. The control group was the only one that didn’t receive standard behavioral treatment instructions.

"For parents receiving the standard instructions, children's non-compliance ratings declined by 32%. Among parents who received standard instructions + the stare technique, children's non-compliance scores declined even more substantially, by a full 44%, which was significantly greater than the reduction reported by parents receiving standard instructions alone."

The study shows that parents who maintain eye contact when giving their children instructions, then maintain eye contact for 20-30 seconds afterwards obtain a more agreeable response from their children. Read more at HelpforADD.com.

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Finding the Treatment Path the Works

Some families are choosing to find their own ways of treating ADHD in their children, deciding - in some cases - to leave doctors out of the process completely. It's not a decision the families come to lightly, and they advise other parents considering similar decisions to make them carefully as well.

"Samuel had been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism, when he was three. He was officially diagnosed with ADHD two years ago. The family went through six months of behavior training in the RIP [Regional Intervention Program], learning to handle tantrums, teach Samuel to share and calm himself down."

Though Samuel's parents eventually felt he needed medication to get his ADHD fully under control, other parents chose herbal therapies like BrightSpark. Read more at Tennessean.com.

PedMed: In Praise of Non-Drug Solutions

Some specialists in pediatric and/or holistic medicine are concerned about the excessive publicity often given to drugs that treat things like ADHD, while other forms of treatment - like behavioral therapy - go almost unnoticed. Pharmaceutical companies sponsor awards, dinners and major lectures. Medical journals are filled with their ads.

"The net result is that even though in its policy statement the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry emphasizes its admonition that 'psychiatric medication should not be used alone,' more often than not, it is. For example, a study of 223 children ages 3 and younger diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder found more than half were prescribed psychotropic medication, yet fewer than a third were receiving psychological services."

William Pelham, Jr., distinguished professor of psychology, pediatrics and psychiatry at the University of New York at Buffalo conducted a study which found that when medication was used in conjunction with behavioral therapy, drug doses could be reduced by as much as 67 percent while still achieving the same results. Read more at ScienceDaily.com.

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Preschoolers and ADHD

The August/September issue of ADDitude Magazine features an article called "Preschoolers and ADHD" that takes an honest look at early diagnosis and what types of treatments work best.

"In a significant piece of new research, the Preschool ADHD Treatment Study (PATS), conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health, concludes that treating these symptoms in preschoolers with parent effectiveness training, behavioral therapy and, in extreme cases, low doses of medication can be highly effective."

The article is posted on the magazine's website, along with links to the PATS study and other helpful information. Read more online.

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Improvements Follow ADHD Treatments

The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recently published four studies that reviewed the long-term benefits of ADHD treatments. In the initial studies, children were given one of three treatments; medication, medication and behavioral therapy, or behavioral therapy only.

"Ratings from both family members and teachers favored the combination treatment, and careful medication management was more successful than medication provided through usual community care sources."

Another study showed that children differed in their response to ADHD medication, with some showing improvement even into the third year of follow-up and others showing little response to medication at all. Read more at HealthDay.com.

Memory Help for Children with ADHD

Memory problems are common for kids with ADHD. But a new medication called methylphenidate (MPH) may offer help.

"...six boys with ADHD and 6 healthy boys were studied using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Each patient was tested twice, once with MPH and once without... In the most difficult task, performance of medicated patients was better than that of non-medicated patients."

Brain activity also increased under the medication. Read more at PsychCentral.com.

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New ADHD Patch Being Developed

Noven Pharmaceuticals, in partnership with Shire plc, is developing a new transdermal patch for the treatment of ADHD. The two companies previously worked together to develop Daytrana™, which was the first ADHD treatment patch ever approved.

"As previously announced, Noven successfully completed a Phase 1 study of an amphetamine transdermal system (ATS) under development for the treatment of ADHD. Shire has requested modifications to the original patch formulation in order to align ATS with its future direction in ADHD."

Daytrana™ was first released in June 2006. It was the first, and is currently the only, transdermal product approved for ADHD therapy.

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FDA to Approve new ADHD Drug

Shire Plc is expecting to receive approval from the FDA for a new extended-release drug used to treat ADHD. The drug is called Intuniv, and Shire hasn't yet announced an expected release date.

"Britain's third-biggest drugmaker said it had received an 'approvable letter' from the U.S. medicines regulator for Intuniv, formerly known as Conexyn, signaling it will approve a new drug pending further information."

Shire didn't say what additional information the FDA has requested. Intuniv is a non-stimulant treatment for ADHD that is believed to have little or no risk for potential abuse or dependence.

Read more at BabyCenter.com.

Treatment of Children with Mental Disorders

The medical community's understanding of mental disorders has advanced significantly in the last several years. This Q & A article from PsychCentral addresses some of the more common concerns that parents have about getting their children diagnosed.

"Talk to your child's doctor. Ask questions and find out everything you can about the behavior or symptoms that worry you. Every child is different and even normal development varies from child to child."

The article goes on to suggest that parents may want to consult a psychologist or psychiatrist if the child's doctor believes he or she may have a mental disorder. Read more at PsychCentral.com.

Accessible ADHD Psychological Treatment

An increasing number of doctors, counselors, and even scientist are expressing concern about the prescribing of ADHD related medications to young people. Some are concerned about misdiagnosis, while others wonder about the long term effects medications will have on still-developing bodies and their biological systems. Now, a new psychological treatment offers a unique alternative for some families.

"Child Development Institute, LLC now offers an easier way to obtain this much needed resource through Total Focus, a multimedia program for use at home by parents and kids working together as a team. The format allows busy mom & dads to receive parent education by listening to CDs on the way to work. The activities for the kids are fun can be fit into their free time."

The Total Focus program includes a variety of methods and treatment than can help with everything from self-esteem to motivation and problem-solving. Read more online.

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Nicotine to Treat ADHD?

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine think they've found an unexpected treatment for cognitive disorders associated with things like Alzheimer's and ADHD: nicotine.

"The compounds target receptors in the brain that are activated by nicotine. They impart the beneficial effects of nicotine - specifically enhanced cognition - without the numerous health threats associated with smoking."

The three-year study focused mainly on treating schizophrenia and was conducted using rodents. Further animal work will be done before the compounds are testing on humans. Read more at ScienceDaily.com.

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What Should Counseling Goals Be?

Some parents of children with ADHD choose to include counseling as part of the child's overall treatment plan. But should your goals be if your child is receiving counseling for his or her ADHD?

"First, it is important to teach the child or teen with ADHD how to recognize problems and how to solve problems. There are many good problem solving techniques that young people can quickly learn, and these are great tools to teach them."

Other goals include teaching a child how to be less impulsive, how to monitor his or her thoughts, and how to develop adequate social skills. Read more at ParentingIdeas.com.

Use of ADHD Drugs Tripled During Ten-Year Period

The use of medicine to treat Attention Deficit Disorder tripled between 1993 and 2003. The United States accounted for 83% of the increase. However, researchers noted that France, Sweden, Korea and Japan showed increases in ADHD drug use among children ages five to nineteen years, and Canada and Australia had heavier use than predicted. Overall, there was a 900% increase in spending on ADHD drugs such as Ritalin.

Richard Scheffler, who led the study, said that ADHD could become the world's leading childhood disorder treatable by drugs.

One in 25 American children now takes such medications.

Deciding Where to Draw the Line

When a child has ADD or ADHD, it's important that he's diagnosed and receives appropriate treatment to help him learn to function in school, at home, and socially. However, not all children who "simply can't sit still" have ADD or ADHD. Some are just being kids.

"It should not be forgotten that attention span and concentration differs from child to child and they increase with age. Children come into this world with different abilities and timetables. A child is regarded a 'normal' if his behavior conforms to that of his peers, but there are wide variations in childhood behavior and it is often hard to decide where abnormality begins."

It's important for parents and teachers to work together if someone suspects that a child may have ADD or ADHD. Behavior should be monitored at home and at school, and parents and teachers should "compare notes". Read more at ParentingIdeas.org.

AACAP Introduces New ADHD Practice Parameter and Pocketcard

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has released a new Practice Parameter and Pocketcard that documents the best ways to evaluate, diagnose and treat ADHD.

"AACAP's Practice Parameter shows that ADHD is a medical illness on par with diabetes or asthma. Like these conditions, ADHD can be successfully managed, but not cured."

Included is information about the benefits and potential risks of ADHD medication. The AACAP hopes the information will be beneficial for those in the medical profession who don't specialize in treating children and/or adolescents or mental health illnesses. Read more online.

When to See the Doctor

May parents who think their children might have ADD/ADHD struggle to know when they should seek medical advice and when they need to just wait and see what happens with their child. Some parents don't want their child "labeled" and so they hesitate to seek a proper diagnosis.

"But there are times when you should see a doctor and seek medical help. Much research has shown that ADHD is biological in nature and there is medical treatment that can help alleviate symptoms of ADHD."

In this article from About.com, symptoms and behaviors are broken down by age group so that you know what you look for in children of different ages and can know when it's time to see a doctor. Read more at About.com.

Ritalin Patch May Help with Side Effects and Stigmas

A West Virginia T.V. station recently told the story of a young boy who, diagnosed with ADHD, has begun taking his medication via a skin patch that he wears under his clothes.

"Doctor Feifel says it may be the same chemical [as Ritalin] but the patch seems to have a big advantage over pill... 'Some of the side effects that we think about with Ritalin are due, or at least contributed to, by the fact that it's a roller-coaster effect.'"

The patch provides a more steady, even dose of the medicine, and eliminates the need for trips to the nurse's office for kids to take their medication. Read more at WCHSTV.com.