THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, March 17, 1996 TAG: 9603150029
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 37 lines
In response to the article March 7 regarding ADHD and the use of Ritalin: There is no question how important it is for parents and health-care providers to be aware of the potential abuse of this medication. However, I hope that this does not deter those children, adolescents and adults who would benefit very much from the use of Ritalin from obtaining treatment. Many individuals and families show remarkable improvement in the symptoms of ADHD when medication intervention is used along with psychotherapy.
The article also addressed the large increase in the number of individuals diagnosed with ADHD compared to several years ago. Perhaps this is the result of a more-accepting attitude toward seeking treatment, as well as seminars and support groups that are now available to parents.
Health professionals know firsthand how difficult it can be for those individuals diagnosed with ADHD as adults. These individuals may have struggled their whole lives when they could have gotten help, starting when they were children.
Considering the wide variety of symptoms associated with ADHD, experienced and knowledgeable health-care professionals in this area know how to do a careful screening and evaluation before a proper diagnosis is made. It is also common for many physicians to work with a psychotherapist, so that the psychosocial aspects of this diagnosis are addressed and the patient is not just given a prescription for mediation.
GARY ROTFUS
Licensed clinical social worker
Virginia Beach, March 8, 1996 by CNB