I have been reading something rather disturbing in the news lately. Some doctors are giving prescriptions for ADD ADHD without a thorough examination for diagnosis. Basically, people come in and complain they can’t concentrate or stay focused and receive a prescription for ADD ADHD medication. “Oh Dread!” no wonder we have complaints of over diagnosis!
I don’t know if the news is true or how many people have reported this, but if it is true and even if it is only a few people, this is not good for anyone, especially Adder’s who are already trying to make it in a society which is filled with denial about ADD ADHD. I frequently write about everyone having Adder traits and I stand by that; however, I mean it in a way which we can all relate. Who hasn’t misplaced their keys, been distracted or drove in the direction of work on an off day? We all share some traits and we can all benefit from positive reinforcements. Medications, on the other hand, need to be prescribed only to those who need them and when a full diagnosis has been given. Medications can and do help many with ADD ADHD; however, there is a lot more to prescribing than just handing over a signed piece of paper—especially since no two people are exactly alike and there are a wide range of doses even for one type of medication. And let’s not forget that there are many other disorders and even illnesses which can appear to be ADD ADHD, but are not.
~Bryan