What a Mother Knows About Attention Deficit Disorder
Few experiences exasperate a parent as quickly as dealing with a child with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD, also known as ADD). Yvonne Pennington knows exactly what it’s like. Dr. Pennington is the mother of Ty Pennington, host of the popular Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Ty has AD/HD.
Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) February 5, 2006
Yvonne Pennington, PhD will be a featured speaker at the 12th Annual Attention Deficit Disorder Association Conference on the topic of “Raising Successful AD/HD Adults.”
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), the world’s leading organization for adults with AD/HD, will hold its 12th Annual ADDA Conference on May 4-7, 2006 in Orlando, Florida. The theme for the 2006 conference is Science and the Human Spirit: Changing Lives of Adults with AD/HD. In addition to providing the latest information about best practices in AD/HD management, the conference will deal with such hot topics as cognitive behavioral therapy, women’s issues, eating disorders, men’s issues, brain imaging, college success, and workplace issues.
“So often, I have heard people say that attending an ADDA conference for the first time was a life-changing experience for them,” says Terry Dickson, MD, 2006 ADDA Conference Chairperson. “Such was the case for me when I attended my first ADDA conference several years ago. I know of no other conference where the opportunity to network is so convenient and produces such lasting friendships.”
Until recently it was believed that AD/HD was only a childhood disease. According to data presented to the American Psychiatric Association by researchers from Harvard and the World Health Organization in the spring of 2004, 4.4% of the adult population has ADD or AD/HD. It is the second most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder in adults. Most of the estimated eight million adults living with AD/HD learn they have the hereditary condition when one of their children is diagnosed. Symptoms include lack of focus, disorganization, restlessness, and difficulty following through on projects. These symptoms have pervasive, negative effects on job performance, marriage, and family relationships. Education about AD/HD and connection to other adults facing similar challenges are key to successful management.
For more information on the conference and registration details please visit http://www. add. org (http://www. add. org). If you would like to interview an AD/HD expert or secure a press pass for the event, please contact Jennifer Koretsky at 718 784 1969.
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