In this day and age, drugs are being prescribed without hesitation. Many of these drugs are being prescribed for children with various disorders. One of these disorders is called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a syndrome caused by a biochemical imbalance.
It has hundreds of symptoms that appear selectively in a certain children. Some of these symptoms are distractibility, confusion, faulty abstract thinking, inflexibility, poor verbal skills, aimlessness, perceptual difficulties, constant movement, varied rates of development, food cravings, allergies, and sleeping and coordination problems. The children have difficulty blocking out noises so they can concentrate. Many qualities to look for in ADHD children are self-centeredness, impatience, recklessness, extreme emotionalism, and weak consciences.
Children with ADHD have trouble in school with reading, handwriting and paying attention to what is important. They constantly fidget and squirm and cant express their thoughts into words. Detecting ADHD is complicated because there are no blood tests or genetic tests to confirm this syndrome. An estimated five to ten percent of children are diagnosed with ADHD. About two to three percent of elementary school children are taking some kind of medicine to treat ADHD. One of the most common medications used for treating ADHD is Ritalin.
For those children who have ADHD, Ritalin can be effective in controlling symptoms. There has been controversy surrounding the correct and effective use of this medication. Many people argue that children take it when they do not need it. However, for those who do have ADHD, Ritalin is very beneficial in alleviating symptoms.
Some children who do not have ADHD use Ritalin to get a high. They will often buy or steal the drug from children who are prescribed it and take it during school. I feel that school nurses should have to watch the prescribed child take the Ritalin, so they cannot take it to class and sell it. The nurse must also make sure the Ritalin is locked in a secure place when being stored.
These simple precautions would greatly reduce the risk of Ritalin being used inappropriately while children are at school. Doctors should continue prescribing Ritalin to those who are correctly diagnosed with ADHD. I personally know people who have ADHD and take Ritalin. They have said that it does control hyperactivity and helps them concentrate while at school. I have noticed differences in these people when they are regularly taking the prescribed dosage. They are more attentive and not as easily distracted.
Although people who do not need to take it can abuse Ritalin, it is extremely beneficial to improving functioning of those who suffer from ADHD. Ritalin should not be prohibited to those who need it.Words/ Pages : 463 / 24
