CONS+of+Drug+Therapy

** CONS **  - overuse of drug; becoming dependant on the drug - side effects of drug - physical, emotional, change in personality - being consistent with taking the drug - finding appropriate dose and type of medication - labeling - others peers knowing you take it - teacher having a bias (changes their expectations of the child) - being inappropriately diagnosed - boys vs. girls (developmental differences) - still experimenting with certain drugs - doctors not properly tracking the progress of the child - 20-30% of children with ADHD do NOT respond to stimulant medication **Alternative Methods:** -BEHAVIORAL THERAPY work on academic, social, and sports skills, through intensive behavioral therapy which will assist children in improving their behavior. -SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING therapist discusses/models appropriate behaviors important in developing and maintaining social relationships. For example: waiting for a turn, sharing toys, asking for help, or responding to teasing, then gives children a chance -SUMMER PROGRAM FOR KIDS is a specialized summer day camp outside New York City run by NYU’s Child Study Center. Camp runs from last week in June until third week in August. It offers social skills workshops and assisted-learning classes in addition where kids practice reading and writing tasks to improve their study habits and attention to detail in addition to regular summer camp activities. -MEDITATION THERAPY -EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTIONS & OTHER BEHAVIORAL THERAPIES -NUTRITIONAL & DIETARY THERAPIES -E.E.G. BIOFEEDBACK: "Neurofeedback" involves teaching people effective ways to control body functions by placing one or more sensors on the scalp and one to each ear. Sensors are then connected to a device which depicts a graphical recording of the electrical activity of the brain, referred to as brain waves. Therapist helps the child to associate specific mental states with his/her brain waves. -HERBAL THERAPIES (i.e., Herbal Stimulants, Brain Antioxidants, Nerve Tonics, and Chinese Herbs) -HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENTS
 * Decreased appetite/weight loss
 * Sleep problems
 * Headaches
 * Jitteriness
 * Social withdrawal
 * Stomachaches
 * Instructional Strategies (Giving Directions, Assistance, Assignments, Test Taking)
 * Teaching Self-Monitoring
 * Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support
 * Movement Therapies (i.e., The "Brain Gym" Program: Establishing and coordinating physical movements to assist in brain development and in neural connections)
 * Sensory Integration Therapy and Activities: Children with ADHD may have difficulty in one or more areas of sensory integration and may benefit from structured sensory integration therapy from an occupational therapist or a "sensory diet" (sensory experiences) woven into their day.
 * Emotional Support for Children with ADHD
 * Carbohydrate/Protein-balanced Diet
 * Management of Food Sensitivities
 * The Feingold Diet (i.e., remove foods with artificial additives and preservatives from diet)
 * Nutritional Supplementation (i.e., for Mineral Deficiencies or Essential Fatty Acids May Deficiencies)

OUR HOME: The Advantages and Disadvantages of Drug Therapy for ADHD and ADD Students