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ADHD: An Important Public Health Concern ADHD is a medical condition characterized by symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that affects millions of children and adults, and often has a significant impact on a person’s life. Left untreated, children with ADHD can suffer academically and experience behavioral, social and emotional problems through adulthood. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), ADHD is one of the most common mental disorders among children. Today, ADHD affects approximately three to five percent of the U.S. school-age population, with boys diagnosed three to four times more often than girls. (Collier, Catherine Watts. NYU Child Study Center)//**

Recently,I had the opportunity to speak to the mother of a sixteen-year-old male. She contacted me because she learned that I was in the process of becoming an ADD coach. Her son, recently diagnosed with ADHD, is having a very difficult time in many areas of his life. He is having serious issues at school, at home, and with the law. His mother is very concerned for the well being of her only son. She describes him as being extremely bright, incredibly creative, and naturally gifted. Unfortunately, he is, deeply tormented.

He is full of anger and rage with a growing propensity toward violence. He’s a self-taught guitarist. He’s a naturally talented athlete. When he feels comfortable in his surroundings, he is extremely witty and charming. She adores her son as most mother's do, but she is frightened over what he might do to harm himself. Rather, it’s not a matter of whether he will, it’s a matter of when! He is extremely frustrated. Repeating instances of rejection are taking a toll on him. The emotional and psychological impacts of these events are great with an increasing rate of frequency.

The officials at his high school have painted an overwhelmingly bleak picture for him. He barely comprehends the seriousness of his situation. The pressure placed upon the shoulders of this sixteen year old, from himself, his family, his school and society are enormous. He hasn’t the slightest inkling of how or even where to begin to win back the praises of school officials. Essentially, their advice… his high school days are over, and if he has any hope of securing an education, his best bet is to take and pass the GED.

He is only sixteen and the system is giving up on him. Granted I do not have enough of a relationship with this young man to know what he has done or not done to deserve this fate. No doubt, it is imperative that he take responsibility for his actions, and commit to demonstrating his most sincere desire to return to school. The system is essentially “washing their hands” of him. He is preparing himself for more rejection. After all, he expects it. As far as he is concerned, why should he bother getting his hopes up when he knows otherwise.

This is ADHD! It is an incredibly frustrating situation for those who struggle to figure a way out from underneath this never-ending avalanche.

The good news: ADHD is treatable. It takes a good amount of work. It requires a significant commitment, that once understood, and tools properly applied to illuminate individual strengths and talents. Great progress CAN and WILL emerge!