Common Misconceptions of ADHD / ADD: Bad Parenting, Medication Impact & Adult Symptoms

From time to time, I am asked some rather odd questions about ADHD and my son's behavior and issues when living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder on a daily basis. My experience has been that most of these questions originate from those individuals who are simply uneducated in the issues of ADHD and, therefore, may discriminate or have prejudice of those who suffer with this condition day in and day out.

ADHD is a real neurological complication. While the exact origins of ADHD are not well known, what is known is that millions of children and adults suffer with ADHD each day. While some may refer to ADHD as simply a child who is poorly behaved, or impacted by inadequate parenting and discipline, let it be known that ADHD has is a real condition with real physiological foundations.

Along those same lines, I have also experienced comments, with regard to my son's ADHD, indicating some believe ADHD can be controlled without medication and that those who suffer from ADHD simply choose not to control their behavior. This is simply not the case. In fact, because, as a general human population, we do not remain in a conscious bodily awareness every moment of every day, it would be virtually impossible for a person with ADHD to continuously monitor their behavior every waking moment. Therefore, using prescription medications such as Ritalin and Concerta have shown effectiveness at relaxing the neurological stimulation.

In terms of medication, there have been countless claims by ADHD patients who state they have experienced pre-employment screening inquiry, medical inquiry and even family inquiry into their use of Ritalin or Concerta and the implications for use for an extended period and the need for breaks in care so as to ensure the prescription medication does not become addictive. For prescription drugs used to treat ADHD, such as Concerta, the formula is provided in an extended release formula, providing continuous therapy throughout the day. The need for "vacation" or a break from the prescription drug is not necessary.