It is estimated that as many as 5 million
children in the US alone are afflicted with
attention deficit disorder in varying
degrees. Symptoms often cluster with
hyperactivity to include lack of
concentration, short attention span,
impulsivity, fidgetiness, low frustration
tolerance, difficulty with compliance, and
poor social interaction.
Traditional methods of medical intervention
are aimed at turning down the child’s level
of activity through the use of drugs. Years
ago it was discovered that children react to
stimulating drugs, such as Ritalin and
amphetamines, in an opposite manner from
adults. Nowadays, children and young
teenagers are commonly placed on these drugs
for years to suppress their activity level.
Did you know that if Thomas Edison were
alive today he would have most likely been
labeled as having ADD? At age 11 he was
taken out of school because his teachers
considered him difficult and he “Could not
be taught.” If he had been placed on
Ritalin who knows maybe we would still be in
the dark?
Ritalin has many side effects including:
stunting of growth, depression, insomnia,
nervousness, skin rash, anorexia, nausea,
dizziness, headaches, abdominal pain, blood
pressure and pulse changes and Tourette’s
syndrome. Perhaps the most serious side
effect in controlling behavior with drugs,
however, is that it can become a
psychological crutch. Some children become
very drug dependent and experience episodes
of anxiety if dosage is changed or
terminated.
Controversy surrounds the medical treatment,
indeed the very existence, of ADD and ADHD.
Dr. Ben Feingold, M.D., a renowned
pediatrician and allergist, stated, “I
believe these medications should be used
only as a last resort when everything
else…certainly including diet…has been tried
and has failed. Far too often, drugs are
prescribed as a first measure.
If a child is diagnosed with ADD or ADHD,
they are given more time for tests at
school, and the school district gets more
money from the state. Another example of
money controlling health care.
There is a better way to help these
children. I will be giving a FREE
research-based seminar Monday August 14th,
6pm, here at the office. I have been
working with children for years and have
been very successful at helping parents and
children control their ADD/ADHD without
medication. Seating is limited please call
to reserve your spot.
