"I don't believe in medication." You have heard people say this, right?

According to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary, believe means:

1 a: to have a firm religious faith b: to accept as true, genuine, or real (ideals we believe in) (believes in ghosts)

2: to have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something (believe in exercise)

I think we can agree that medication:

*is not a religion.

*is real.

*is effective and necessary when used properly.

So, what does it mean when someone says, "I don't believe in medication"?

I don't know.

Here is what I do know:

* It is necessary to have an accurate diagnosis by a professional who specializes in AD/HD before embarking on any treatment plan.

*Treatment for neurobiological conditions, like AD/HD, may include medication to mitigate the challenges of the condition in order to function well.

*Medication, when warranted, has been shown to be one of the most effective treatments for AD/HD.

*It may be ineffective, however, if it is the only intervention. Medication is usually most effective when it is part of a treatment plan that may include therapy, coaching and behavioral interventions, as well as exercise and proper nutrition.

*Children, teens and adults who take medication as part of a complete treatment plan may do better socially, academically and emotionally.

I also know that the decision to take any medication should be made with great care.

So, the next time you hear someone say, "I don't believe in medication," ask them what they mean. Perhaps, by asking them this question, you can help them to become clearer in their thinking.

"What you perceive, your observations, feelings, interpretations, are all your truth. Your truth is important. Yet it is not The Truth." ~Linda Ellinor

Marla has a private practice in which she provides ADD Coaching for high school students, college students and adults, as well as seminars on many topics, including those related to ADD. In addition she is an Academic Support Specialist at Boston University. She has been in education for over 15 years. Prior to creating her company, Cummins Coaching and Training, and working in higher education, Marla taught middle school and high school.

Visit http://www.marlacummins.com to request your FREE newsletter, "ADDed Perspective."

Source: www.articlesbase.com