An adult with the disorder always had it as a kid—sometimes the diagnosis was missed during childhood and the youngster was simply labeled as ‘rambunctious.’ In other situations, a child with known ADHD had his medicine stopped when he reached his teens because he seemed to be less hyperactive. Currently psychiatrists believe this decision to stop medication is a mistake. The teen may appear to have calmed down, but the learning and behavior problems remain throughout life, and it’s during the turbulent adolescent years that the medicine may be needed most. While many experts do feel that ADHD is "over-diagnosed" in children, the opposite appears to be true in adults, in whom the diagnosis is often overlooked.

Unfortunately, the consequences of missing the diagnosis often worsen with time. What began as behavior problems and poor grades in the youngster with ADHD can become repeated job firings and botched relationships in the grown-up years. Careless childhood injuries may forecast irresponsible driving and perhaps a fatal auto accident. The impulsive behavior as a child can develop into criminal activity, unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. And ultimately, a lifetime of repetitive failures may lead to a sense of hopelessness, endless frustration, and serious depression.

At WholeHealthChicago, I present both alternative and conventional choices that may help you to cope with ADHD. Ritalin and other stimulant medications, which are so helpful for many children, can be remarkably effective in adults as well. But in some cases, lifestyle changes, nutritional approaches and other natural therapies may reduce the need or even eliminate the need for medication.

Learn more about ADHD