ADD/ADHD Online Information

ADD/ADHD News

January 11th 2007

Kids with ADHD at risk of drug taking and depression
Intervention to address quality of life issues needed during childhood

We have been sent the following Press Release which was sent out today 11th January 2007

New research¹ released today shows that children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are facing significant social exclusion during their formative years, compared with other children their age.

Children with ADHD may also suffer low levels of self-confidence and self-esteem² - in turn these have been linked to high rates of teenage pregnancy, smoking and antisocial behaviour, such as drug taking.^3,4

According to the research, 79% of children with ADHD have no or very few friends, 53% spend the majority of their time alone and 53% get picked on by other children often or most of the time.¹

Teenagers with ADHD are more likely to take illegal drugs, abuse alcohol, fail at school and get lower status jobs than their peers.⁵ In addition, around one in three children with ADHD require the use of mental health services.⁶

Therefore, given the potential long term impact of social exclusion during childhood and adolescence, healthcare professionals warn it is imperative that the quality of life issues of children with ADHD are recognised and addressed early on.

Dr Anne McClure, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at South Tyneside District Hospital, commented, “When it comes to managing children’s health, it is not enough to only treat the basic symptoms. A treatment strategy, including medication and behavioural therapy, should offer benefits throughout the whole day and across all aspects of the child’s life. Children are like sponges – constantly absorbing skills from their environment that will help them grow into independent, healthy, social adults. We are doing children with ADHD a disservice if we do not address quality of life issues, which we know are often a struggle, whilst they are young.”

The findings of the new research reveal the extent of social exclusion and poor life opportunities children with ADHD face. In response, a new campaign called Lessons 4 Life is being launched today by Eli Lilly and Company Limited with the support of the National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service (ADDISS). It aims to help improve quality of life and offer support to children and families affected  by the condition. A new booklet, also available today, is filled with practical tips and strategies to help parents boost their child’s self-confidence and to further educate people about ADHD and appropriate ways to manage the condition. .

To read the full Press Release Click Here

To download a copy of the Booklet Lessons 4 Life Click Here

To receive a hardcopy of the booklet you can email your name and address to info@adhdlessons4life.co.uk to request a copy of this.

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