by Barbara Mulloy-Robbins
While I am pleased that the mental/behavioral disorder of ADHD is finally being recognized as a valid disorder and not just a bogus diagnosis of the Seventies, I am disturbed to learn of the dependence, if not addiction, well into the adult years on drugs prescribed by our medical community.
In my book, A Mother'sDiary: A Family's Journey from ADD to Chemical ADDiction, I was primarily concerned with creating an awareness of the devastating effects of the connection between ADD and self-medication, i.e. alcohol and drugs. However, if prescribed drugs were to be an option, they should be carefully monitored in accordance with a valid diagnosis by a knowledgeable physician.
I'm amazed to read in the Palm Beach Post that, "while children are more often prescribed drugs to cope with this disorder, there are at least 3.2 million adults taking these medications to help them focus at work and at home." The article goes on to say, "that for those teens coping with ADHD in the long term without medication can contribute to alcohol and drug abuse." How long is long term, to be on these drugs?
On the other hand, I am pleased that many have given thought to implementing a more holistically integrative medicine approach to healing body, mind and spirit. Would the pharmaceutical industry agree?
The Palm Beach Post ADHD Drug Shortage
