ADHD is real
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ADHD is a common disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common mental disorder that occurs in children, and often carries into adulthood. Difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and forgetfulness are all common signs of ADHD. Extensive research on ADHD has been conducted since the early 1900’s, and though there are several mysterious surrounding ADHD and its’ causes, it is among one of the most common mental disorders in the United States, effecting over 6 million children.
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The Argument
ADHD is a common disorder that effects a majority of the population, effecting both adults and children. Though the average age for diagnosis is 7 years old, ADHD can be diagnosed at any age. 6.1% of American children are currently being treated for ADHD with medication, with 1 out of 5 of these children being treated with counseling as well. [1]
With such high numbers of cases, there are still a majority of people who believe that ADHD does not exist. If so many adults and children show symptoms of the disorder, how can this be? One also has to take into account the causes of ADHD. While the cause of ADHD is still unknown, there are a number of factors that are proven to affect the number of people diagnosed. Males are 3 times more likely to have ADHD than females, and children living in poverty are more likely to develop the disorder. Other causes may be linked to brain injury, alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy, and premature delivery. [2]
ADHD also exists with other conditions. Bi-polar disorder, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, and Tourette’s syndrome are all disorders that commonly co-exist with ADHD. To say that someone does not have the disorder, or that ADHD merely doesn’t exist, can be seen as neglectful or insensitive to others’ conditions. ADHD is becoming more commonly diagnosed, and should not be stigmatized. Treatment has been proven to work, as many adults and children continue to live normal, healthy lives.
Counter arguments
ADHD is one of the most frequently diagnosed disorders among children. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), 5% of American children have ADHD, while the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates the number to be double that amount, with ADHD affecting 11% of American children. These percentages are shockingly high, and appear to affect more children in the United States than any other part of the world. [3]
But how can this be? Why are Americans willing to give so many children an ADHD diagnosis, especially at such an early age? Research has suggested that the first symptoms of ADHD appear in ages 3 to 6. This seems like an odd age to determine whether a child has ADHD. Yes, the symptoms of ADHD include the inability to focus and hyperactive behavior, but what ever happened to kids just being kids? Aren’t these normal behaviors for someone so young?
ADHD is over-diagnosed, especially in the United States. Children should be given more time to develop mentally before they are given a diagnosis, especially if they are to be treated with medication, which can have long term affects.