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Home › Articles › ADD/ADHD › Combating ADHD Myths

Combating ADHD Myths

Organization Guides Parents of Children With ADHD

By Debora Geary

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, which averages 3.5 million hits a month, allows you to:
  • Sign up for ATTENTION! magazine;
  • Sign up for the News From CHADD e-newsletter;
  • Join monthly online Ask the Expert chat sessions;
  • Read informative fact sheets.

The National Resource Center on ADHD's Web site, www.help4adhd.org, is also run by CHADD. Here you can find:

  • Answers to frequently asked questions;
  • Advice on how to navigate legal, insurance and educational systems;
  • Health information specialists who will answer your questions by calling 1-800-233-4050.

Evidence-Based Treatment
CHADD strongly believes that science points the way to the best and most effective treatments for ADHD. "Many families spend energy, money and time on non-evidence based interventions," says Ross. "The symptoms of ADHD continue."

Instead, CHADD recommends putting together a plan with your health care provider that begins with researched treatment guidelines and then is tailored to the unique needs of your child and family.

"The American Academy of Pediatrics has published evidence-based assessment and treatment guidelines for children with ADHD," says Ross. "If a treatment is not contained within the AAP guidelines and if your pediatrician does not recommend a treatment, then serious cautions must apply."

Beyond Information
CHADD's mission is not limited to providing information. They are also a well-respected support and advocacy organization. To provide local support for families and individuals with ADHD, CHADD has 235 chapters nationwide, all coordinated by volunteers. "The success of these local groups depends on the energy, skill, dedication and consistency of these parent-volunteer coordinators," says Ross.

If you're interested, CHADD is currently lacking chapters in Alaska, Wyoming, Vermont and many places in between. While many of these support groups are run by and for parents with children, CHADD chapters are beginning to host moresupport groups for adults with ADHD.

CHADD is also significantly involved in reaching out to African-American and Hispanic/Latino communities. "Cultural competence is an important goal in systems of care for children and their families," says Ross. "Each provider must show respect for and respond to individual differences and special needs."

In addition, CHADD is deeply involved in public policy issues. They belong to a list of organizations as long as your arm, all working to improve laws and policies that affect kids, families and adults impacted by ADHD. As part of their commitment to advocacy, CHADD just launched a national media campaign, the ADHD Education Initiative, aimed at clearing up confusion about ADHD in public conversations.

Few parents dealing with ADHD feel like they have enough information, and many wonder which answers they can trust. CHADD provides an excellent portal of resources and support that have a scientific seal of approval.

Teens With ADHD Drive Better With Right Medication
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