ADD / ADHD

 According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, 1994 (DSM-IV), the diagnostic label is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, in popular conversation and on many websites the terms ADD, ADHD, AD/HD - are used interchangeably.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that becomes apparent in some children in the preschool and early school years. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorders of childhood, that can carry out into adolescence and adulthood. The core symptoms of ADHD are developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. These problems are persistent and usually cause difficulties in at least two major life areas: home, school, work, or social relationships and must be present before age 7 years.

Publications about ADHD by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) are accessible on line. You may also order a hardcopy of their brochure about ADHD.

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (C.H.A.D.D.). The mission of this non-profit organization is to provide a support network for parents and caregivers; to provide a forum for continuing education; to be a community resource and disseminate accurate, evidence-based information about AD/HD to parents, educators, adults, professionals, and the media; to promote ongoing research; and to be an advocate on behalf of the AD/HD community.

Diagnosis of ADD/ADHD in adults
Information and resource sheet provided by the National Resource Center on ADHD, a program of C.H.A.D.D. as a set of guidelines of what to expect from the evaluation process.

Attention Deficit Disorder Association
provided by the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), a non-profit international organization created to provide information, resources and networking to adults with AD/HD and to the professionals who work with them.

Myths about ADD/ADHD
By Becky Booth, Wilma Fellman, LPC, Judy Greenbaum, Ph.D., Terry Matlen, ACSW, Geraldine Markel, Ph.D., Howard Morris, Arthur L. Robin, Ph.D., Angela Tzelepis, Ph.D., Pediatrics, December 1996, Vol. 98, No. 6 - based on rebuttals written by MAAAN (Metro Area Adult ADHD Network).

CogMed Working Memory Training
A software-based program designed to enhance attention and working memory skills. Research has shown that after training, people improve their ability to concentrate, control impulsive behavior and better utilize problem solving skills.

Understanding Working Memory
This information is specifically geared to parents and teachers, who want to understand more about working memory, and how it interferes in the classroom.

Jungle Memory
is an online brain training program designed to boost working memory and concentration, which play an important role in academic performance. Jungle Memory is available as an 8-week online subcription for three interactive games and provides daily performance feedback to its subscribers. [Disclaimer: we do not have any personal interest in promoting this program.]

The Neurocognitive Approach
While not a home based program, the program outlined in No Child Left Behind Goals (and more) are obtainable with the Neurocognitive Approach, (Volume 1) by Kirtley E. Thornton, Ph.D. also has strong evidence for effectiveness in improving memory and learning skills.
The ‘neurocognitive approach’ is a special kind of biofeedback. Biofeedback means interacting with a display of your physiology. EEG biofeedback begins by monitoring brain waves and encourages adjustments to current patterns of functioning with electronic guidance during trial and error learning. Dr. Thornton convincingly advocates that a certain type of brain mapping guide this intervention.

9 Drug-Free Approaches to Managing ADHD.
An article from US News Aug 12, 2009.