Trying to understand Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a difficult process because the symptoms vary from person to person and there are no specific tests that can verify if an individual has the condition. According to Toronto area ADHD specialist and medical doctor, Umesh Jain, there are not any simple tests that can tell you if you have ADHD or not. Determining whether an individual has ADHD or not is still a matter of making an observational diagnosis.
Because of the complications associated with ADHD, it is often difficult for individuals and families to understand the condition. Educating themselves about the nature of the condition, learning ways to manage symptoms, dealing with learning disabilities or school performance and understanding the benefits and drawbacks of medication are all necessary steps. In addition, there can be a host of other common issues that can be related to or caused by ADHD. Emotional stresses and health concerns can be exacerbated by social and personal difficulties. Many people struggle with these, and many more, issues on a daily basis.
Finding answers and support is not always easy. Professionals don’t always agree on the nature, causes or preferred treatments for managing ADHD. The internet is full of conflicting and often misleading information. Public perceptions and a lack of understanding compound the problem.
To help, there are a number of excellent resources provided by organizations dedicated to helping support individuals, families and professionals dealing with ADHD. These are a good place to start.
- The Canadian Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Resource Alliance (CADDRA) is a national not-for-profit organization that supports health care professionals. It focuses on research, treatments and the development of guidelines for treating ADHD. For individuals and families, the CADDRA web site provides detailed information and resources.
- The Centre for ADHD/ADD Advocacy Canada (CADDAC) is an alliance of organizations and individuals that promote issues related to ADHD and ADD. The focus of CADDAC is on education and advocacy. It offers workshops and works with policy-makers to help individuals and families living with ADHD. The CADDAC web site offers extensive information for individuals and resources for promoting understanding of ADHD issues.
- Totally ADD, is a web-based organization that offers information and support for individuals with ADHD. Although focused on adults, the organization is expanding its offering for families and children. The Totally ADD web site uses video-based information clips that are short and lighthearted, making it easy for those with ADHD to absorb information easily.
- Children and Adults with ADD (CHADD) is an organization mainly made up of individuals and family members living with ADHD and ADD. Many of its activities support local support groups and initiatives aimed directly at individuals and families. It offers workshops, presentations and conferences across the country. The CHADD web site is a good place to look for local contacts to help families manage ADHD.
With knowledge and proper treatments, individuals can help themselves manage their condition throughout life. Seeking help and support is an important step in succeeding. For more information, start looking at the information available from support and advocacy groups like Totally ADD, a Toronto area organization that Dr. Jain helped get started.
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