Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

In this day and age, drugs are being prescribed without hesitation. In fact, many of these

drugs are being prescribed for children with various disorders. One of these disorders is

called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). An estimated five to ten percent

of children are diagnosed with this syndrome. One of the methods to treat this disorder is

to use stimulants, specifically Ritalin. This method is controversial because it has many

side effects and its long-term effects are unknown. It can also lead to addiction.

Approximately two to three percent of elementary school children are taking some kind of

stimulant to treat ADHD. Since so many children are taking this medication, new

problems have arisen. Many of these children use these drugs in excessive amounts to get

"high" with their friends. Some overdoses have even caused death. The alternative ways to

treat this syndrome without medication are not adequately explored. Some doctors have

found ways to combat this problem with little or no drugs. Why aren’t more doctors

looking into these alternative methods? What kind of example is this excessive drug use

setting for the children? Finally, what actions can be taken to solve this problem?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a syndrome caused by a

biochemical imbalance