The Causes of ADHD
There has been so much confusion and misinformation about children who are hyperactive and distractable. Parents have heard that there’s no such thing as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder—that the diagnosis has been made up by doctors to make money—or that ADHD is caused by allergies, food colouring, too much sugar or a vitamin deficiency.
To make things more confusing, the media have connected the medication Ritalin with school shooters and teen suicide. Of course this has terrified parents. In addition, some groups buy ads in the media that spread false information about psychiatry, attempting to discredit the profession.
It’s no wonder parents are confused, scared and suspicious about ADHD.
Treatment really can make a difference. But in order to make an informed decision about treating a child, it’s imperative that parents have accurate information about ADHD.
According to the best research we have today, ADHD is a neurological disorder. It is not caused by allergies, food coloring, vitamin deficiencies or sugar. It is largely inherited: That is, ADHD runs in families. Also, some children have accidents and become neurologically impaired, resulting in ADHD. And some mothers run into problems during their pregnancy or delivery that result in ADHD.
There is no cure for ADHD. For kids diagnosed with it, the goal is to manage the disorder so that they don’t develop emotional and personality problems.
Medications that help children with ADHD are mostly stimulants. Dexedrine and Ritalin have been the two main stimulants doctors have relied on over the years. Research has resulted in medications like Concerta and Adderall, which are seen as being more effective and having fewer side effects. Since every child is different, these medications don’t always work, so doctors try other kinds.
