Understanding and Managing ADD/ADHD in Children and Adults

Key Themes Discussed

Defining ADD vs. ADHD

• Dr. Silverman explained that while ADD and ADHD are often used interchangeably, the formal diagnostic term is ADHD, encompassing three types:
  • Inattentive (formerly ADD)
  • Hyperactive-Impulsive
  • Combined presentation
• ADHD is primarily neurological and genetic, not just behavioral or environmental.

Common Misconceptions

• Many families attribute ADHD to diet, parenting, or technology, but true ADHD stems from neurological differences in brain functioning.
• Environmental factors like poor sleep, excessive screen time, or lack of structure can worsen symptoms, but don’t cause the disorder.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

• Dr. Silverman emphasized comprehensive evaluation, which includes:
  • A clinical history
  • Quantitative EEG (QEEG) brain mapping
  • Computer-based cognitive tests
• He criticized quick diagnoses and overprescription of medications without proper assessment.

Treatment Options

• Neurofeedback and brain mapping are core services at his clinic, offering drug-free treatment alternatives.
• Neurofeedback uses real-time brain activity to help patients regulate attention and emotional control over time.
• Dr. Silverman noted many patients improve without needing medication.

Cultural and Social Context

• The show highlighted how some communities, especially in traditional or immigrant households, may overlook or stigmatize ADHD.
• Parents often struggle to differentiate between “normal” childhood energy and actual disorders.

Concerns with Medication

• The discussion addressed overmedication in schools and among college students using drugs like Adderall or Ritalin recreationally.
• Side effects like appetite suppression, mood swings, or growth delays were concerns mentioned by both the host and callers.

Role of Structure and Family Involvement

• Treatment is most successful when families are involved, especially in children’s care.
• Dr. Silverman encourages helping parents create structured, supportive environments and sometimes addressing parental ADHD as well.

Gender and Diagnosis Trends

• ADHD in girls and women often goes undiagnosed because it manifests differently—more as inattention or “daydreaming” rather than hyperactivity.
• Many women don’t get diagnosed until adulthood, often after their children are diagnosed.

Call-In Highlights

• Parents shared personal stories, often expressing relief after finding support through Dr. Silverman’s clinic.
• One caller described how neurofeedback helped her son become calmer and more focused at school.
• Another raised concerns about stimulant medication safety and long-term effects.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Silverman

• Parents should look for patterns of difficulty across settings—home, school, and social life.
• Early intervention is key to preventing long-term issues like low self-esteem, academic struggles, and strained relationships.
• His clinic supports both medicated and non-medicated approaches and emphasizes personalized care for each individual.

Listen to the full interview