TURNABOUT STILLWATER ACADEMY

Definition of ADD or Attention Deficit Disorder, & ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: ADHD is generally considered to be a developmental disorder, largely neurological in nature, affecting about 5% of the world's population. The disorder typically presents itself during childhood, and is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity, as well as forgetfulness, poor impulse control or impulsivity, and distractibility.

Noteable facts and statistics about ADD / ADHD:

About 60% of children diagnosed with ADHD retain the disorder as adults. ADHD is a developmental neurological disorder. The term "developmental" means that certain traits such as impulse control significantly lag in development when compared to the general population. This developmental lag has been estimated to range between 30-40 percent in ADHD sufferers in comparison to their peers; consequently these delayed attributes are considered an impairment. Statistics show that on average 46% of those with ADHD have been suspended and 11% expelled from school. Thirty seven percent of those with ADHD do not get a high school diploma even though many of them will receive special education services. The combined outcomes of the expulsion and dropout rates indicate that almost half of all ADHD students never finish highschool. Only five percent of those with ADHD will get a college degree compared to twenty seven percent of the general population.

Treatment of ADD / ADHD:

There are several clinically proven effective options available to treat people diagnosed with ADHD. It has been believed that ADHD is treated most effectively, and cost efficiently, with medication. However, recent long term studies now cast serious doubt to this assertion. "Drugs such as Ritalin and Concerta work no better than therapy after three years of treatment. The findings by an influential US study also suggested long-term use of the drugs could stunt children's growth. It said that the benefits of drugs had previously been exaggerated." Psychotherapy is another option, with or without medication. Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and magnesium may have benefits with regards to ADHD symptoms.

Comorbid disorders or substance abuse can make finding the proper diagnosis and the right overall treatment more costly and time-consuming.

Social impairment for those with ADHD is seen at both school and work. They often have more troubled relationships with peers or family members. At the workplace, they change jobs more often and are more likely to get fired. Their income level does not rise as quickly as their peers, even when education level, IQ, and their neighborhood is accounted for. Thirty five percent of all those with ADHD will be self employed in their mid-thirties. Those with ADHD are at greater risk of: injury, abnormal risk taking, smoking, having learning disabilities, other mental disorders, teen pregnancy, substance abuse, involvement with the criminal justice system, and having a poorer driving record.

Turnabout Stillwater Academy has successfully aided many teenagers diagnosed with ADD / ADHD to improve study habits, communication skills, and interpersonal skills. Providing teens the skills to work with their ADD / ADHD helps to insure success for teens past graduation through all aspects of their life.

Other ADD / ADHD Resources to Help Your Teen

add.org/: Complete information about diagnosis and treatment of ADD / ADHD
additudemag.com: Online guide parents who have children or teenagers with ADD / ADHD
add.about.com: Current Articles and information about ADD / ADHD