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ADD/ADHD Information
ADD/ADHD CoordinatorHi! My name is Joel Justin. DefinitionThe definition of ADHD... ADD...and Attention Deficit Disorder...all mean the same thing. It's a condition that develops within some children in their early childhood years, but can continue into adulthood. Attention Deficit Disoder (ADD)/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can make it difficult for people to be able to control their behavior, as well as various other symptoms. The current estimation is that between 3 and 5 percent of American children suffer from some degree of ADD/ADHD. This translates to approximately 2 million children across the United States. Similarly, between 2 and 4 percent of all adults in the USA cope with ADD/ADHD. What does this mean in a practical sense? It means that in any given classroom with an average size (between 25 and 30 children), there is likely to be at least one child who has ADD/ADHD, whether he or she has been diagnosed with the disorder or not. It also means that a business employing 50 people will also have one or two ADD/ADHD sufferers. There have been thousands upon thousands of scientific, academic, and medical papers written about this disorder, providing a sizeable amount of information about its causes, its nature, its progression, and its treatments. A person with attention deficit disorder faces many challenges. In order to achieve his or her full potential, the ADD/ADHD individual should use resources around them for help, guidance, and understanding. They also need to look to family, friends, counselors, and the public education system for support. Most people have the symptoms of ADD/ADHD at some of the time. However, individuals with ADD/ADHD have more of these symptoms... more of the time and to the point that it interferes with their ability to function normally at school, work and social settings. People with ADD/ADHD are often noted for their inconsistencies. One day they can "do it," and the next they can't. They may have difficulty remembering simple things yet have "steel trap" memories for complex issues. If you or a loved one has ADD/ADHD, you are not alone. The Causes of ADD/ADHDNo one really knows for sure what causes ADD/ADHD, although it is certain that there is a strong genetic link. Research has been conducted for many years and there is a distinct relationship between ADD/ADHD and the brain structure, dopamine and nor epinephrine, and parts of the brain that control impulse and attention. Networking & Support MeetingsThe Brain Injury Support Group meets monthly at West Central Industries, 1300 SW 22nd St., Willmar, Minnesota (Nov/Dec holiday exceptions) — See Active Lives Events Calendar (below) for dates/times. Beverages and snacks provided. Come meet others that share your life experience, let us help with locating helpful resources, and take advantage of our Lending Library as an educational resource. The group features speakers. We also have scholarships available for workshops, Brain Injury Conferences, and adaptive technologies. Famous People With ADD/ADHDFamous People with ADD/ADHD include: Resource Center HelpThere are a number of ways that you can receive help or assistance in regards to ADD/ADHD. I can help you with specific concerns or questions-- e-mailing me-- Joel Justin @ wciadd.yahoo.com Recommended Websites-- For Parents, For Teachers...For Parents: |
