How Big of a Problem is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - "ADD" ormany as 20% to 30% of children in America, but these
"ADHD" - affects between five to ten percent (5% -numbers are not really supported by research data,
10%) of all children in the United States, and three to sixand are probably inflated for the purpose of trying to
percent (3% - 6%) of adults. About 35% of all childrensell something.
referred to mental health clinics are referred forHowever, we should note that Fetal Alcohol
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, making it oneSyndrome, Head Injuries, or other Specific Learning
of the most prevalent of all childhood psychiatricDisabilities, are often mistaken for ADD ADHD, which
disorders.can inflate the numbers reported. As many as 10% of
The 5% number is a solid, conservative numberchildren are now being born with FAS or are drug
supported by a lot of research. Even at 5% eachexposed babies.
classroom in America will have one or two (2) ADHDADHD is not a "fad" disorder, nor is it a conspiracy by
kids in the class. So it is a very real, and very significantpharmaceutical companies to get more kids on drugs. It
problem across America.is a very real neurological condition that is common
When only Parent Rating Scales are used in aenough as to require parents, teachers, and physicians
research project, the numbers will range from a low ofto become better educated about its causes, the
seven percent (7%) of school-aged children to a highavailable treatment options, and the potential problems
of twenty-three percent (23%) of children.with doing nothing. Learn more about ADHD at the
You may see published estimates stating thatADHD Information Library.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder may effect as