Tuesday, June 29, 2010

YOUNG ADDers USING NON-PRESCRIBED STIMULANTS - ADD Coaching

In my coaching and counseling of young adult ADDers, I’m finding many, particularly college students, using stimulants obtained from peers for their ADD or for “getting an edge”. Most have not yet been diagnosed with ADD,and of course, stimulants can be effective in non-ADDers in increasing their ability to focus on tasks. When I learn about clients using non- prescribed stimulants, I often find that they don’t even know the dose they’re taking, and whether it is toxic. Also, they need to first have a physical exam to rule out cardiac and other problems. They should then get diagnosed and be prescribed medicine. Unfortunately, many young adults have learned to present themselves to a clinician as ADDers( even on tests) if they want stimulants.

What do you think about this trend?

June Kaufman, Ph.D.

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