Transcript ADD/ADHD
ADD/ADHD • What is ADD? • What is ADHD? – ADD is Attention Deficit Disorder – ADHD is Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity – ADD/ADHD is a neurological disorder. Several areas of the brain may be involved • Frontal lobes - Pay attention to tasks, focus, concentration - Plan - Learn - Remember - Behave appropriately Inhibitory mechanisms of the cortex prevent negative behaviors - Hyperactivity - Quick temper - Impulsive actions - Poor decision making Limbic system • Base of our emotions - Over-activated individuals may experience mood swings or temper outbursts. Such an individual may feel it necessary to touch everything in his or her surroundings. Reticular activating system • This is the attention center of the brain and the center of motivation. It is a highly complex collection of neurons that serve as a point of convergence for signals from the external world as well as one’s internal environment. • Surroundings, thoughts, and feelings merge. Neurotransmitters • Chemicals made by neurons used to transmit signals to other cells. • -Acetylcholine • -Norepinephrine • -Dopamine • -Serotonin Acetylcholine • -Most abundant neurotransmitter in the body. • -Primary neurotransmitter between neurons and muscles. • -Also related to memory and learning • -Low levels can contribute to lack of concentration and forgetfulness. Norepinephrine • A hormone produced by the adrenal medulla that causes some of the expressions of fear and anxiety. • A neurotransmitter released by the sympathetic nerves • Used in the process of focusing and attention Serotonin • Only used within the CNS. • Low levels linked to depression, suicide, impulsive aggression, alcoholism, sexual deviance, and explosive rage • High levels linked to masked aggression, obsessive compulsion, fearfulness, lack of self-confidence, and shyness. Dopamine • Only used within the CNS • An inhibitor dampening activity • (Lack of dopamine: cause of Parkinson’s disease) • Oversupply to limbic system: Paranoia, inhibit social interaction • Shortage in frontal lobe: poor memory • Lessens pain and increases pleasure Problems associated with ADD/ADHD • • • • • Short attention span Restlessness Destructiveness Depression Excitability Treatment 1) Medication • Ritalin • Dexedrine • Adderall 2) ADD Coaching 3) New Diet 4) Postive/ Negative Reward System Side Effects of stimulant drugs • • • • • • • Loss of appetite Sleeping problems Irritability Restlessness Elevated blood pressure Sadness Withdrawn behavior ATTEND • Dr. Greg Young and Vaxa International developed formula (1966). Newly revised version: Attend • All natural, safe product designed to increase brain’s ability to filter information, become less distracted, and inhibit certain behaviors. • Addresses specific dietary and neurochemical deficiences to stimulate neural growth • Side effects may include sleeplessness, stomachache, and over aggression. References • 1.) Biology Concepts and Connections. Campbell,Neil; Mitchell, Lawrence, Reece, Jane. Addison Wesley Longman INC.; 2000, San Francisco, CA • 2.) http://www.newideas.net • 3.) http://www.brainmachines.com/body • 4.) http://www.maui.net/ • 5.) http://www.focusonadd.com • 6.) Advanced Placement Biology. Pack, Phillip. Cliffs Notes INC.; 1994, Lincoln, Nebraska • 7.) http://add.about.com/library/weekly