Preschoolers Experiencing Mental Health Problems

Researcher Dr. Adrian Angold, from Duke University in North Carolina, found that more than one in ten preschool children may be experiencing early mental health problems that are likely to disrupt their lives. Scientists were shocked to discover large numbers of those under five meeting the criteria for mental and behavioral disorders seen in school age children, adolescents and adults. In more then 11 percent of cases, children suffered symptoms bad enough to affect their daily lives. They included ADHD, serious disruptive behavior, depression and anxiety.
By parents filling out questionnaires, psychiatrists rated 307 pre-school children. Questions were carefully designed to spot behavioral traits commonly associated with different kinds of mental illness and disability. Many were found to have a range of problems, often displaying symptoms of more than one kind of disorder. Anxiety showed itself in a number of ways, including generalized fear, phobias, and terror at being separated from parents. Children with depression showed typical symptoms of sadness, irritability, disturbed sleep ,and lack of appetite. In 11.3 percent of cases, the problems encountered were classified as “serious emotional disorders” bad enough to disrupt daily life. Older children with similar difficulties were held back at school, socially isolated and unable to forge relationships.

Females More Sensitive To Chronic Stress

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have found that in the study of rats, females might be more sensitive to chronic stress tan males. During a 15 day period, researchers studied stress response in male and female rats. They noticed markedly increased levels of the stress hormone corticosterone in the female rats compared with the males. The major steroid hormone in rats, corticosterone, is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. In humans it’s cortisol.
The adrenal glands, along with the pituitary and hypothalamus, make up the stress axis. When an organism experiences stress, higher levels of glucocorticoids are produced to aid in survival and recovery. But prolonged high levels of this hormone can have negative effects, such as increased abdominal obesity, and decreased immune response. The study findings were presented during the annual meeting of the society of Neuroscience in Washington D.C.

Restore Your Health With Ecotherapy

If you’re stressed out with modern life, walking the dog, stroking the cat, or swimming with dolphins could be the best medicine for coping. The idea of restoring health through reconnecting with nature, known as ecotherapy, is gaining support among the mainstream medical establishment.
Ecotherapy includes helping to develop green spaces in urban areas, conservation projects, and teaching troubled children to handle small animals. Not only has the British Medical Journal found that swimming with dolphins helps people with depression, a study in Honduras has found the same. Researchers at Leicester University studied 30 patients and found that those given the opportunity to play with dolphins over a two week period reported less anxiety and depression than those who simply swam.
A more everyday type of ecotherapy is simply owning a pet. British researchers suggest pet ownership is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, lower use of medical services, and reduced risk of asthma and allergies in young children.

Stress and High Cholesterol

British researchers studied about 200 middle-aged men and women ad discovered the link between stress and cholesterol levels. All patients underwent standard tests to measure mental stress. They also measured their cholesterol. And a second cholesterol test was given three years later.
The study results showed that those who scored the highest o the stress tests experienced the greatest rise in cholesterol at the follow up exams. Overall, they were three times more likely to have clinically high cholesterol than those who scored the lowest on the stress tests. The findings held true even after researchers adjusted their results to take other factors influencing cholesterol levels into account. The stress cholesterol link was seen equally in men and women. Investigators aren’t sure how mental stress impacts cholesterol levels. But they speculate stress may be promoting the production of more cholesterol, interfering with the clearance of cholesterol from the body.

Antidepressants for Children is on the Rise

Are children being inappropriately prescribed antidepressants? The number of U.S. children and teens who were diagnosed with depression more than doubled between 1995 & 2002. The overall increase in adolescent patients is likely due to the growing awareness of depression in children, a problem that’s been historically under-diagnosed. Also the use of antidepressant drugs rose and the use of psychotherapy and/or counseling declined. The number of clinician visits by children and adolescents being seen for depression more than doubled. However, mental health counseling including psychotherapy dropped from 83 percent to 68 percent. Analysis also showed that between 42 percent and 52 percent of all adolescent patient visits involving medication did not include counseling. Antidepressants prescribed to seven to 17 year old patients rose from 47 percent in 1995-1996 to 52 percent in 2001-2002, including increases in the off-label use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’S), which accounts for 76 percent of antidepressants prescribed to adolescents in 1995-1996 and 81 percent in 2001-2002. This was reported by Stanford researchers in the December issue of Journal of Adolescent Health. The observation of the increasingly prevalent off label use of SSRI’s as well as possible inappropriate use of medications in substitution of psychotherapy/mental health counseling as first line therapy, raises concerns about physicians adherence to evidence based medicine. As drug use increased, counseling decreased. The prevalence of psychotherapy remained above 80 percent from 1995-1998, but then it dropped significantly to 54 percent in 1999-2000 before rising at 68 percent at the end of the study period. Researchers say the findings point to possible instances of inappropriate prescribing to children. While guidelines call for children to be treated with either mental health counseling or a combination of counseling and medication, the study found a trend of antidepressants replacing talk therapy. Additionally, only Prozac , which jumped 100 percent in use over an eight year period, had been specifically approved for patients younger than 18. But after 1995, other antidepressants rose with children receiving prescriptions for them on an off label basis. These trends raise concerns regarding the widespread off label use of antidepressants lacking reliable evidence of safety and efficacy for use in children and adolescents.
Study author, Dr. Jun Ma of the Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, Ca., says it’s not clear why the use of antidepressants increased during the study. But she feels that it’s likely a combination of factors including widespread drug advertising, perceptions that drugs are more effective than therapy, and the fact that taking medication is more convenient than counseling. Whether or not prescription use will continue to rise is now in question. Recently, the FDA directed manufacturers of all antidepressants to place a “black box” label on their products, warning of the increased risk of suicidal behavior that has been inked to certain medications. Dr. Ma said it will be important to track how this change affects prescribing trends. Ma makes a note that the labels are not intended to scare doctors and patients away from antidepressants because they can be an important part in the treatment of depression in children. Researchers point out that Prozac, along with talk therapy, should be the first choice antidepressant for children, and only if that fails should other drugs be considered Prozac was the most commonly prescribed antidepressant, with Zoloft and Paxil close behind, which are not FDA approved for children.
Clinical guidelines from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends that psychotherapy be used on all children and adolescents. Antidepressants, in combination with psychotherapy/mental health counseling should be prescribed to those with severe psychotherapy-resistant symptoms only. Depression affects up to 8 percent of U.S. children and is a major risk factor for suicide, which is the third leading cause of death among teens. Recently, the American Psychiatric Association reported that antidepressant use among adolescents had dropped by almost 20 percent after the FDA’s decision to put warnings on prescriptions.

Filtering Out Useless Information

Scientists at the University of Oregon say that filtering out useless information can help people increase their capacity to remember what is really important. They have demonstrated that awareness, or visual working memory, doesn’t depend on extra storage space in the brain, but on an ability to ignore what is irrelevant. Edward Vogel, head of research, says that it’s always been assumed that people with high capacity visual working memory had greater storage. But he says it’s about a neural mechanism or bouncer that controls what information gets into awareness.
These findings would overturn the accepted concept of memory capacity which was suggested that how much a person can remember depends on the amount of information crammed into the brain at one time. Some people allow themselves to be inundated with distracting data. But, on the other hand, that very defect might help to make them more imaginative. Researchers found that the brain contains its own version of the nightclub “Bouncer” who keeps out unwanted riff raff. These results are said to have broad implications that may lead to more effective ways to maximize memory, as well as improve the treatment of problems associated with ADHD and schizophrenia.

Stress Linked to Problems During Adolescence

Research conducted at the Oregon National Primate Research Center at Oregon Health and Science University and at the University of Pittsburgh suggests that there’s a link between stress early in life and the increased incidence of mental health problems during adolescence.
It has been revealed that children who experience early life stresses such as abuse, neglect or loss of a parent have an increased risk of developing attachment disorders. Later, these same children show an increased incidence of manifesting some types of behavioral and emotional disorders including ADHD, conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, suicide, drug abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Genetic factors and life experiences play a role in the causes of these mental health disorders.

Feed Your Brain To Help Fight ADD

First of all, here’s just a few facts that you should now about your brain. It consumes 20 percent oxygen, 25 percent of the blood glucose in your body, and a dried out brain is 60 percent fat by weight. This means that your brain requires a high amount of oxygen, blood glucose and good quality fats to keep it running well.
Many children who have problems sitting still in school can focus and learn much better after they’ve been allowed to exercise intensely. This provides the brain with more oxygen. Also, many children who have trouble learning often eat sweetened cereal for breakfast. This does not support focus and concentration well. Try a few eggs, a high protein shake, and replacing juice with a piece of whole fruit and the dame child can often function so much better for the whole morning. Protein stabilizes blood glucose levels and provides the needed amino acids the body converts into neurotransmitter substances that allow brain cells to communicate with each other.
Next, try to avoid foods that will diminish their ability to focus and concentrate and increase their energy.. Sugar is certainly one, as are any with artificial flavors and colors.
Finally, for the past 20 years, we’ve been eating low fat or non fat foods. While that may be good for some parts of our body, it isn’t good for our brain. It significantly contributes to diminished brain function.

Serious Consequences for ADD Left Untreated

ADD’s classic symptoms include hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Left untreated, there can be serious consequences. Studies show that it can double the chances of being arrested, divorced and to have at least six jobs in a 10 year span. It has also been shown to affect self-image and can hurt on the job performance.
Considered the most effective way to treat ADHD are psycho stimulant medications along with behavioral therapy. However not only are the long term effects of medication unknown, but the most common one, Ritalin, is in the same class as cocaine and morphine. All drugs carry the potential for abuse. But now there’s no shortage of alternative treatments that can be used either in conjunction with drugs or on their own. Most alternative ADD therapies offer only anecdotal, rather than scientific evidence of success. But just because it hasn’t been in a rigorously controlled study doesn’t mean it’s worthless. Experts say that if it’s safe, you believe in it, and it’s good for you anyway, it’s worth exploring.

Pill Popping to Gain an Edge

You’ve heard of athletes popping pills to gain a competitive edge, but college students too? Today students are turning to prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin to get them through late nigt study sessions, risking potential and unknown side effects for a chance at a better grade. Some students say it’s a “super-achiever thing”.
Adderall, for example, is an amphetamine prescribed to improve focus and attention in people with ADHD. But the drugs have become popular for those looking for an occasional mental boost. Students say that caffeine will keep you awake, but Adderall will actually increase your ability to concentrate. Stimulant use varies widely. In the journal Addiction, which studied nearly 11,000 students, colleges with more competitive admission standards have the highest rates of non medical use-up to 25 percent. Nearly 7 percent had taken a stimulant without a prescription. Dr. Carol Milam, psychiatrist at the Vanderbilt University Student Health Center, says that students believe these types of medications aren’t really dangerous. Bt she warns that not only can they become addictive, bit they have other side effects that include loss of appetite, difficulty falling asleep, stomach ache and dry mouth. The manufacturer’s also warn that it’s not recommended for people with heart problems, high blood pressure, significant anxiety, or a history of drug abuse.

Reduce Your Risk of Alzhiemer's

According to an article in the Lancet Neurology, Swedish scientists have recently found that physically active people had a 60 percent lower risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease then those who were sedentary. The protective effect of exercise increased with age when most cases of Alzheimer’s, which strikes about 10 percent of Americans over 65, develop.

Schools Can't Make ADHD Kids Stay Home

On Wednesday, the U.S. House overwhelmingly passed a bill baring schools from requiring hyperactive children to use drug treatments as a condition for attending classes. Backers of the bill say it’s designed to curb anecdotal but troubling reports of officials telling parents that their disruptive kids must begin treatment for ADHD if they want them to attend school. Doctors have traditionally relied on teachers to identify symptoms of ADHD. But some schools have overstepped their bounds and have coerced parents into starting children on medication.
Rep. John Kline, R-Minn. Is the bill’s main sponsor and says it’s unconscionable to make parents choose between medicating their child or not sending them to school. According to the CDC, nearly 4 million U.S. children under age 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD by 2004. Also, during the first six months of 2005, doctors wrote more than 5.6 million prescriptions for Adderall, a drug used to treat ADHD. That’s a 15 percent increase over the same period a year before. It remains unclear how often schools have tried to make medication a condition of attending class.

ADHD Drugs Not As Safe As Experts Thought

Today, nearly 4 million children take prescription drugs for ADHD, and this number seems to be climbing. Two new studies now suggest that those prescriptions aren't as safe as experts once thought.
In the first study, researchers kept track of 1,359 children on Strattera for 6-18 weeks. They reported five cases of suicidal thoughts, including one suicide attempt. This was compared with zero cases among the 851 patients who took a placebo. As a result of this study, the FDA had the manufacturer put a "black box" warning on the drug, which is the most serious alert. The experts believe that while children take this medicine, the most worriesome periods are during ther first few months of treatment and when the dosage needs to be adjusted.
In an Austrailian study, they reviewed 29 studies and found that stimulants prescribed for ADHD, such as Ritalin and Dexedrine, may stunt growth in developing kids who experience nausea as a side effect. In one study of 97 boys, they found that those who felt queasy on the medication ended up 2.6 inches shorter, on average, than those who didn't. Researchers believe one possible reason is that if appetite is suppressed, the resulting lack of proper nutrition and calories may affect growth.

Eat Well To Maintain Your Brain

Here are three simple ways that improving your diet today may protect your brain later in life.
1). Hormone therapy-Broccoli and berries are packed with plant hormones that may help prevent Alzheimer's disease. Dutch researchers found that women who ate 3 ounces of berries or 7 ounces of broccoli had 49 percent better memory scores of the 394 women in the study. Other healthy vegetables thought to fight the brain plaques and tangles of Alzheimer's include rutabagas, turnips, parsnips, carrots, and beets.
2). Have healthy drink limits-Research at the University of Wisconsin found that among 500 people with family risk factors for Alzheimer's, those who averaged one or two drinks per week scored 6 percent higher at word-list recall than those who abstained or drank less often than once a week. They suggest that healthy daily drink limits are two for men, and one for women.
3). Calorie control-Researchers at the University of Washington say excess weight may raise Alzheimer's risk by creating insulin resistance. They induced the condition in 16 people and saw 50 percent rise in levels of brain and spinal cord inflammatory chemicals and betaamyloid protein-both are suspected building blocks of Alzheimer's.

Major Depressive Disorder Linked to Other Disorders

The National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions indicated that there’s a strong relationship between major depressive disorder to alcohol use disorder, drug disorders, and other mental health conditions.
Researchers at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health reported that middle age, female gender, Native American, low income, separated, divorced, of widowed had the increased likelihood of current or lifetime major depressive disorder. Also found were elevated rates of major depression in baby boomers and in Native Americans. Asian, Hispanic, and black race-ethnicity reduced that risk.
Interviews of more than 43,000 non-institutionalized individuals 18 and older found that 5 percent experienced MDD during the 12 months preceding the survey and 13 percent experienced it at some time in their lives. It is noteworthy to point out that the highest lifetime risk is among middle-aged adults, previously held by the younger adult population during 1980 and 1990.
The onset of MDD begins between 12-16, with the mean age of onset at about 30. Women are twice as likely as men to get MDD and are more likely to receive treatment. Of all who experience MDD, nearly half wanted to die, one third considered suicide, and 9 percent attempted suicide. Among those with MDD, 14 percent abuse alcohol, 5 percent abuse drugs, 26 percent smoke, more than 37 percent have a personality disorder and more then 36 percent have at least one anxiety disorder.
These study results show that strong relationship of MDD to substance dependence and a weak relationship to substance abuse. This indicates the importance of focusing on dependence when studying the relationship of depression to substance use disorders.

Stress Can Make Kids Hurt Themselves

According to a recent survey, 1 in 4 kids hurt themselves due to stress. 875 middle school children were polled recently about how they handle stress. When stressed or upset, ¼ admitted to hurting themselves on purpose. The 9-13 year olds admitted to doing such things as banging their head against a wall or pinching themselves. With emotions being so strong, it can become overwhelming and they don’t know how to handle it. They usually blame themselves and hurt themselves as a way to tae it out on tem. Although this is not a healthy coping mechanism, it occurs in a significant percent of children. Kids who hurt themselves were also more likely than those who did not to say they lose their temper, keep their troubles to themselves, feel bad about themselves, and were less likely to try to work things out. This suggests that certain teens have a tendency toward poor coping skills and need help developing effective ways to cope with stress and manage their emotions.
Things that can stress out a teen include grades, school, homework, getting along with siblings, worries about problems at home, peer group issues, bullies, and friends.
The poll did find that they used other ways of coping, such as watching TV or playing videos. Theses ranked the highest. Teens feel that the most important thing parents can do is to talk to them about their problems. Though they usually don’t want to bring up problem to their parents, they say they would like talking about them if they were asked.

Tips to Coping With ADHD

If you’re lie a lot of people and don’t want your child on medicine, here’s a few tips that may help.
1). At School
-Have him/her sit near the teacher.
-Give him a planner so he knows what must be done.
-Maintain close communication with the school to be sure assignments are being done and they can make you aware of any problem areas.
-Meet with the school counselor/teacher to head off any problems.
-If he is eligible for special education services, make sure the teacher consultant works closely with the teacher and you.

2). At Home
-Have him repeat back instructions to make sure he has everything.
-Have specific chores and activities written down and place somewhere where he’ll see them.
-Focus on what he does well and not just what he’s struggling with.
-Structure your home to eliminate problems, such as putting breakables away, create a quiet place for him to study, have predictable places for thing he needs but regularly misplaces. An example is putting his school bag on his des when he gets home.
-Set short goals for him, then gradually increase as he succeeds. Expecting too much from an easily distracted and impulsive child will lead to failure, anger, low self-esteem and poor performance.
-Educate him about his condition, symptoms, and strategies that can help him.
-Monitor and regulate his daily routines to help develop consistent and effective behavior patterns.

ADHD Drug Cylert Too Dangerous

According to the Food and Drug Administration, liver problems with Abbott Laboratories Inc’s discontinued ADHD drug Cylert and other generic versions, are too dangerous for the U.S. market. This means that drug manufacturers can no longer produce generic versions of pemoline. Abbott Laboratories discontinued the drug earlier this year, but generic versions have remained available. The FDA said it is not recalling the drug. This will allow pharmacies to sell their remaining stock as doctors switch patients to alternative treatments. The lack of a recall caused concern from consumer advocacy group Public Citizen. Drs. Sidney Wolfe and Peter Lurie, who lead the organization’s Health Research Group, called the FDA and the involved companies reckless and insensitive to the health and lives of children and adults using this drug. The FDA made the statement that during the thirty years the drug has been available, it has thirteen reports of liver failure resulting in transplant or death among those who too it. According to them, the number is well above what the normal rate is such problems are among the general population. They conclude that the risk of liver failure outweighs the potential benefits, noting that other stimulants have been produced and don’t cause the problems pemoline does.

Patch or Pill for ADHD?

Those suffering from ADHD may soon have a choice of taking pills of using a patch. The patch will deliver methylphenidate, the same ingredient that’s found in Ritalin, Concerta, and Methylin, throughout the day. Pending FDA approval, it will be the first ADHD medicine that doesn’t have to be taken orally. The company plans to call it Daytrana.
This transdermal delivery system is designed to provide a continuous release of medicine throughout the day. It will pass through the skin and go directly into the blood stream, and it will be water-resistant. Studies reported at the American and Canadian Academies of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry find it’s effectiveness as well as the once a day drug. Of 80 ADHD kids, aged 6-12, studied, those receiving the real patch, not a placebo, did much better. Their behavior and attention, tested throughout the day, had improved. They also achieved better results on age-adjusted math tests. Side effects were similar to other stimulant drugs, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, and those with sensitive skin experienced irritation.
Another study on the patch compared it with a placebo and methylphenidate pills. Both the patch and pills improved ADHD symptoms in 6-12 year olds. Scores improved slightly more with the patch compared to the pills, but the difference wasn’t significant enough to claim scientific proof of superiority.
The patch would be ideal for children who can’t swallow pills. This is especially important for those taing the extended release pills because they cant’ be broken up or the release mechanisms will be destroyed. Another important factor is that the patch offers parents control over how long they want the medication to last. Once a child swallows a pill, you can’t do anything about it. The patch may release methylphenidate for up to 16 hours. And it must be removed for three hours before its effects wear off. But parents can decide to remove it earlier or leave it on beyond the school day. Knowing there was continuing efficacy beyond that 12 hour time point may give them more options.

Pessimism Can Lead To Dementia

Here’s another reason to stay positive; a new study by researchers at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Found that pessimists are more likely than optimists to develop dementia later in life.
Studied were people ages 20-69 who had taken memory impairment tests in the 1960’s and then developed dementia 20-30 years later. Those without a history of psychiatric problems, but scored high on the pessimism scale were 30 percent more likely to develop dementia. People who scored high on the depression scale increased their risk by 40 percent. This either causes stress hormones to be released or their might be a group of genes linked for dementia and pessimism. Whatever the cause, the results are pretty clear-you need to rev up your optimism. Here are four simple tips that can help change your gloomy outlook.
1. Applaud Yourself-Rather than thinking how much time it will take to accomplish a large goal, accomplish small goals and give yourself a pat on the back.
2. Don’t Let Fear Lead To Pessimism-Don’t avoid activities because you’re afraid of triggering a flare. You now you deserve to have some fun, just be sensible about when, and how long you do it.
3. Don’t Beat Yourself Up When Things Go Wrong-If your arthritis is acting up, find a way to enjoy the day anyway. If you had to cancel lunch with a friend, why not invite her over and order takeout instead.
4. Love Yourself-If you’re starring in the mirror wishing you looked younger, give yourself some positive affirmation. Say something like, “These laugh lines make me who I am,”

Classical Music Soothes the Mind and Body

Sing researchers and music therapists believe classical music can soothe aching limbs and decrease stress. A recent study found that Mozart and Bach, slow-tempo music, decreased chronic osteoarthritis pain. Study researchers from the Florida Atlantic University College of Nursing, Boca Raton, found that pain levels decreased from participants because the music distracted them. They also found that heart muscles synchronize to the beat of music, as does breathing. Classical music rhythms mimic the average resting heart. Therefore, listening t soothing sounds actually help to slow fast-beating hearts. Joanne Loewy, PhD, director of music therapy for Beth Israel Medical Center in New York, uses music to slow hr patients’ breathing and to help promote relaxation.
But not all music is the same. Some faster compositions can actually rev up the nervous system, maing people more sensitive to pain.
Steven Halpern, PhD, composes music for healing and relaxation and offers tips to finding music that can decrease stress and keep your mind off of pain. He says to pay attention to your breathing and heart rate. If it slows down while you’re listening, the music is soothing you. Music that makes your heart race should be used for exercising. He also suggests making your own compilations. Store bought compilations are often a mix of soothing and rousing music.
Finally, if you really don’t care for classical, you can try jazz of new age genres. Loewy states that any type of music that makes you feel good when listening to it can be effective.

Six Ways To A Better Doctor's Appointment

Like your doctor, but don’t feel like you’re connecting? Experts offer advice to be sure you’re not the one creating tension between the two of you.
1. Come Prepared.
Write down your questions, symptoms, and things to discuss with your doctor before your appointment. When you do this, the conversation will keep moving and your doctor is more likely to stay focused on you.
2. Take Notes.
Studies show that 20-50 percent of what the doctors said is forgotten by the time you get in the parking lot. Write down instructions or any other important information while you’re in there. This also lets the doctor know that you take him/her seriously.
3. Avoid “By the Way” Moments.
If you’re too nervous, feel too rushed, or you’re too embarrassed to ask the one question that really matters to you, you’ll often blurt it out while the doctor is going out the door. Often the most important things are brought up in the last minutes of an appointment and they can make a difference in your treatment regimen.
4. Do What Your Doctor Says.
Believe it or not, many patients don’t follow their doctor’s recommendations and don’t get better. If you feel uncomfortable with the treatment or if you feel you can’t do it, speak up. Your doctor would rather help you create a new plan than prescribe one you won’t or can’t follow.
5. Be Honest.
You may not want to tell your doctor you’re taking nutritional supplements or that you’ve started smoking again, but keeping these things from him can cause problems. Your doctor can’t help you if you don’t tell him the whole story. You may even get hurt if he prescribes something that conflicts with what you’re taking.
6. Speak Up.
David Watts, MD, physician, poet, author, and commentator on National Public Radio, says to tell your doctor if he says or does something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Your feedback will help other patients as well.

When Your Job Has You Stressed, See Your Spouse

New research shows that a supportive spouse can help calm the negative effects of job stress, especially high blood pressure. A study of 216 men and women found that after one year, job stress and the lack of a supportive spouse had their blood pressure rising 2.8 mm Hg in systolic pressure. However, those volunteers who had spousal support showed a decrease in their systolic pressure by 2.5 mm Hg.

Researchers say the key is "marital cohesion" - basically the ability to talk things over on a daily basis. An attentive spouse who pays atttention to their partner's needs, is a good sympathizer and is willing to spend time with their spouse is a gem.

This study should alert those with a high stress job and/or low marital cohesion to get a blood pressure screening. For those who had a "harmonious" relationship that is deteriorating, a check with a counselor might also be in order.

Even in the Cold, Stay Active and Happy

Research from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, part of the Department of Defense, reports that during the cold holidays, the last thing on your mind is probably exercise. But taking a vacation from fitness could hurt. According to the University, just one week without exercise increased fatigue in their 20 adult subjects. After a second week, they began showing symptoms of depression. They believe that one reason might be that at-rest heart rates increase without regular activity, and the mind senses that something is amiss. Participants in the best shape on the first day ended the study in the worst of moods. Lead author Ali A. Berlin says because their initial heart rats were so low, they experienced the greatest change in heart rate, and the biggest shock to their systems. He says that people can take breaks, but they should just switch to a lower-intensity routine. And if you have to stop due to an injury, he recommends staying upbeat with low-impact exercises such as stretching, physical therapy, or water workouts.

Adult ADHD Meds Double

New research shows that the use of prescription medication for ADHD is growing at a faster rate among adults than children. The use of drugs that help keep ADHD patients focused, doubled among adults 20-44 between 2000-2004. But according to data compiled by Medco Health Solutions, one of the countries largest prescription benefit manager, it only rose 56 percent among children during that time. The study also shows that among women 20-44, use of prescriptions rose 113 percent and 104 percent among those between 45-64, both far more than men. They also point out that spending on the medicines has quadrupled. Experts say reasons for the increase include better drugs, advertising, and parents of children recently diagnosed with ADHD realizing they too have the symptoms.

Doctors are now seeing about 1 percent of adults being treated and 4 times as many are estimated to have ADHD. This means that nearly 1.5 million Americans 20 and older are taking ADHD medicine. These figures dispel the earlier beliefs that children grow out of ADHD. About 50 percent of adults still have problems that affect their functioning. And now, many are staying on their medication beyond adolescence.

Part of the increase is due to awareness of the disorder among the public through advertising. Eli Lilly and Co., makers of Strattera, have been running TV adds aimed at adults who may not realize they have the disorder. Also, the makers of Adderall XR and Concerta have advertised in magazines geared to parents of kids with ADHD.

ADHD has symptoms that include trouble concentrating, impulsivity, disorganization, procrastination and hyperactivity. Along with behavioral therapy, medication is good because it can improve adults' relationships, parenting skills, job performance, even their sex lives, according to Dr. Edward Hallowell, author of a new ADHD book called, "Delivered from Distraction". With new, brand-name versions that last all day, limiting the ups and downs of symptoms, sales have soared from $759 million in 2000 to $3.1 billion in 2004, according to IMS Health, a pharmaceutical informatin and consulting firm. And as drug makers receive regulartory approval specifically to market to adults, the market for ADHD drugs could easily double.

While there are benefits for some adults, others are just stressed out and are being misdiagnosed. More adults are being diagnosed due to better diagnosis procedures. He points out that adults don't just get ADHD, they had it when they were kids too. He says that 3-7 percent of the nation's children have ADHD and a third of them have the disorder with the same intensity in adulthood. While stimulants and non-stimulants are used to help some, doctors cannot act cavalier with the symptoms of ADHD. In our overstressed society, many symptoms can be describing a very stressed out, overloaded person.

ADHD Med May Help Autism

According to research published in the November issue of the Journal of the American Medical Assoc. Archives of General Psychiatry, children with autism may benefit from a drug that is commonly prescribed for ADHD.
Researchers enrolled 72 children in the largest study yet of a stimulant medication, Ritalin, for autistic kids that are hyperactive. They were trying to see if methylphenidate would be effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsiveness in children with autism.
For the first week, each child participated in a tolerance test of three different dose levels. Next, a four week phase where they were given either a previously tested dose or a placebo. Those who had a positive response were treated for an additional eight weeks to make sure their response was stable.
Of those who participated, 14 withdrew due to intolerable side effects. 35 responded well to methylphenidate and experienced a significant reduction in hyperactivity. However, reduction in symptoms for the entire group was not as great as is typically seen when used to treat those with ADHD.

Exercise Can Lift A Heavy Heart

For the millions of Americans striken each year with depression, they may want to consider walking, running, and even swimming away from their problems. Recent studies show that any form of exercise is as effective as antidepressant medications in reducing the symptoms on those with major depression. It doesn't seem to matter how long you need to exercise. Just get up and do it!
A study done five years ago found that just 10 months of exercise outperformed the antidepressant Zoloft in easing symptoms in young adults with moderate to severe depression.
A study done in 2005, by researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, found that 30 minute aerobic workouts three to five times a week cut symptoms by 50 percent in young adults.
Experts agree that those truly depressed can find it rough to get into an exercise routine. That's were loved ones can play a key role. By urging a depressed friend or family member to join them, they're offering helpful support in getting people to maintain exercise. For those who are depressed, exercise may prove to be a viable, worry-free alternative that has great cardiovascular benefits.

Adults With ADHD Often Suffer Psychiatric Problems

According to a recent study, adults with a history of ADHD often suffer from multiple psychiatric problems during their lives, including depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Researchers found that in their study group of parents with past or current ADHD symptoms, 87 percent had at least one other psychiatric disorder and 56 percent had two or more. Major depression was the most common diagnosis that affected 59 percent.
The study, found in the American Journal of Psychiatry, says this is a major public health problem. The authors feel that an estimated 4 percent of adults with ADHD have such a high rate of co-existing disorders. One of their major concerns is that these disorders can affect parenting and ADHD is believed to have a strong genetic component. The University of California, Los Angeles researchers assessed 435 parents who had at least one child with ADHD. By using questionnaires and interviews, they found that 35 percent of parents had ADHD at some point in their lives and about half still showing symptoms.
These parents also had higher risks and earlier onset of a number of psychiatric disorders. Dr. James J. McGough says that 21 percent of parents with ADHD had an anxiety disorder at some point, whereas 8 percent of parents were unaffected. 59 percent of the ADHD parents suffered from major depression during their lives compared to 40 percent of unaffected parents. Those parents with ADHD were also more likely to suffer from oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder as children. Both of these disorders and major depression tended to arise at a younger age amoung ADHD parents. McGough is unclear whether these co-existing disorders emerge as a consequence of ADHD, or represent some biological susceptibility to certain psychiatric conditions.
They suggest doctors look for signs of other psychiatric conditions when assessing adult ADHD. They also suggest considering the possibility of the attention disorder when evaluating adults for conditions like depression and anxiety.

Link Between Depression and Colorectal Cancer

According to a new analysis of data from the Nurses' Health Study, an ongoing study of some 127,000 female nurses, women who suffer from depression are at an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Researchers however have found no link between depressive symptoms and the risk of colorectal adenomas, which are growths or polyps that can become cancerous. Dr. Candyce H. Kroenke of Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, and colleagues explain in the American Journal of Epidemiology that while depression has long been thought to play a role in the development of cancer, the data are inconclusive. But they add that depression has been tied to certain risk factors for colorectal cancer, including diabetes, low estrogen levels, and behavioral risk factors such as smoking.
Researchers hypothesized that depression would increase the risk of both colorectal cancer and colorectal adenomas. They are the first to look specifically at depression and colorectal cancer. Data analyzed from 81,612 women, all free from cancer at the study's onset, showed 400 cases of colorectal cancer and 680 colorectal adenomas were diagnosed during the 8 year follow up period. Women with the highest levels of depressive symptoms on the Mental Health Index had a 43 percent increased risk of colorectal cancer compared to women with lower levels. The association was stronger among overweight women. These findings suggest that depression may worsen obesity's adverse effects on cancer development. They concluded that further research will be needed to identify potential biological factors through which depressive symptoms may promote colorectal cancer development.

Prescribing Stimulants or Nonstimulants

According to investigators, who presented their findings at the joint meeting of the American and Canadian Academies of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, physicians are more likely to prescribe atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, than stimulants to adults with ADHD if the patient has additional psychiatric diagnoses. Research scientist, David L Van Brunt, PhD. for Eli Lilly, wanted to see if a patient with ADHD's history predicted whether or not the patient was steered toward stimulant therapies or a non-stimulant therapy. Dr. Brunt said that factors of treatment, such as histories of depression or anxiety, predicted whether physicians would prescribe atomoxetine as opposed to stimulant therapies.
The study was conducted due to the growing evidence that ADHD persists into adulthood. They reviewed pharmacy and medical administrative claims from a database that included 10,359 patients 18 years or older and had begun both an ADHD medication and had filed at least one diagnostic claim for ADHD between 2002-2003. In the analysis comparing initiations for atomoxetine to any stimulant, 2036 had recently started on atomoxetine and 6814 had started on any stimulant. The key factor that predicted the use of a stimulant was use of a stimulant in the previous year, which occurred in more than 60 percent of cases.
Dr. Brunt says that there is no overall difference in prescribing patterns of stimulants and long-acting stimulants. He says they are being use to address different treatment needs in clinical practice.

7 Ways To A Happy Holiday

Holidays are they time of year to seduce the senses and bolster the bonds between family and friends. But often, even for the hardiest reveler, the mental and physical stress of holiday tasks can strain the mind and body. Below are some tips to help yet you trough the season, including ways to stay organized, to volunteer your time, decorate, shop, cook, and even card writing, all the while making your health the top priority.

1). Ways To Ward Off Stress
Stress and depression often go hand in hand. It is estimated that 10 percent of the population experiences depression triggered by stress. You can minimize these unwanted effects by controlling time spent on holiday chores.
-Take time for yourself. It’s easy to get burdened with a to-do list. Take time out and pencil in time for relaxation and daily rest. By completing a crossword puzzle, taking a walk, or a nap, the mental and physical break can rejuvenate you.
-Set limits. Don’t try to do everything in one day. Decide how much you can do and stick with it. Don’t forget to ask for help if needed.
-Help others. If you have the time, volunteering can lift your spirits and remind you what the holidays are about. Suggested organizations include the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run, the Marines Toys for Tots Foundation, Meals on Wheels, or even helping the Red Cross with the hurricane victims.
-Skip the holiday spirits. Alcohol, which is a depressant, can dampen your mood. It can affect sleep, increase stress, and exacerbated joint pain in some forms of arthritis, especially gout.
-Remember what’s important. Holidays are about family and friends, and your religious beliefs, not about who got what gift. Take part in events that make you feel good and say no the others.
-Laugh out loud. Remember to enjoy yourself. You’re out to have fun with others. Laughter is a successful supplemental therapy for pain. Even giggles can relax muscles, boost circulation and help dissolve stress.
-Don’t create a financial burden. Don’t cause added worry and stress by overspending. Simplify gift giving. Ask family members to do a grab-bag gift exchange. Enjoy less expensive entertainment by driving to decorated houses or going to free concerts.
-Make compromises. Skip the card writing. Call your friends to wish them happy holidays. Talking to them will boost your spirits. Or if you still want to send cards, get printed ones. It will save you pain from writing and time.

2). Ways To Tone Down De’cor
To get in the holiday spirit, many decorate their home. Here’s a few tips to help without going overboard.
-Go artificial. You can buy an artificial tree with the lights already attached. Places like Wal-Mart and The Home Depot will put a tree together for you. To spruce up a room, use artificial wreaths, garland, poinsettias, and holly branches. They won’t need watering and won’t drop needles, saving time on maintenance and clean-up.
-Take a stand. If you must have a live tree, take the stand with you. Ask the handler to set it in there, then just load it in your car.
-Hang together. If you’re having a get together, ask everyone to bring a decoration for the tree. It will be full in no time.
-Lay on lights. If you’re lighting the outside, use the ones that lay like a blanket and drape them over bushes and trees.
-Seek simplicity. Go minimalist. Try a grouping of candles at different lengths. Switch your regular couch pillows with holiday ones.

3). Ways To Work In Your Workout
Things may seem to busy, but don’t skimp on your exercise. It may make you feel depressed.
-Walk during your child’s sport event. Walking around the gym or field during your child’s sports practice or event will help you burn more calories than sitting on the bleachers.
-Exercise with a friend. If you exercise with a friend, you’re more likely not to break your commitment. Use the time to catch up, vent, release stress.
-Don’t park near the door. Whether it’s at home or the mall, parking further away can help. Those additional steps can really add up during a day of shopping.

4). Ways To Shop Smart
Instead of walking aimlessly from store to store, follow these do’s and don’ts so gift browsing doesn’t lose its luster when pain is present.
-Don’t procrastinate. Joining the mayhem of Christmas shoppers between Dec. 10 and Christmas Eve will only add to your stress, and you’ll probably spend a lot of time on your feet in long lines. You should plan ahead, start early, and shop at a leisurely pace. Stores are less crowded early or late on weekdays.
-Do browse at home. Visit Web sites or review catalogs of your favorite stores. Mae a list of thngs you want to purchase, call ahead to see if the item is in stock, and have the salesperson hold it for you. Better yet, order by phone or online and save yourself a trip.
-Do map it out. If your going to numerous stores, set a course of action and stick to it. List where you need to go and what items you need for each store.
-Don’t lose your cool. Don’t beat yourself up an cause more stress if you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for. Remember that it’s the thought that counts.
-Do use a cart. So your finger joints won’t be strained from carrying gifts, use a cart from store to store. If you can’t borrow one from the mall, you can purchase one at www.shop.com for $46.99. You can also use it after the holidays fro groceries or laundry.
-Don’t shop the mall. Scarce parking spots and long lines can make the mall a very stressful and unfriendly place. Try to visit main street style shops or open air shopping areas. Parking is usually plentiful, you can visit multiple shops, and you can get some fresh air in between.

5). Ways To Avoid Temptation. Avoiding high calorie holiday foods is often difficult. But don’t have post-holiday regret by overeating now. Just follow these simple guidelines.
-Eat in before you head out. Eating a healthy meal before you leave home for a holiday party will prevent you from overeating. You’ll also be able to focus on family and friends.
-Set sensible goals. Set a realistic limit on how much you will eat and drink before you go out. Limit your visits to the buffet table and how many items you’ll get. Then praise yourself for keeping your promises.
-Don’t mingle near food trays. Try to stay away from tables loaded with hors d’oeuvres or candies and snacks.
-Bring your own. See if you can bring a veggie tray or something else nutritious for you to snack on.
-Just say “No, thank you”. It may be difficult to do, but if the host offers you seconds, politely but simply decline their offer.
-Inform gift-givers. Let family and friends be aware that you don’t want food as a gift. And if they ignore your wishes, you can give it to a homeless shelter.
-Remove food. Instead of meeting friends and family at a home, try getting together at a holiday concert, theatre, museum, or sporting event.

6). Places To Go Online For Gifts. Shopping on the Web saves time and energy that’s traditionally spent schlepping from store to store. It’s never been easier to find a rare collectible or a sweet sentiment to send to someone over the holidays. With online gift guides and Web-based catalogs providing a clearing-house of gifts that allows you to bookmark a gift idea to come back to later, further simplifies online searches and purchases. Next time you sign in, try these sites: www.ebay.com, www.findgifts.com, www.shopzilla.com, www.surprise.com, www.zingermans.com.

7). Ways To Make Meals Simple. Although a home-cooked meal is probably a tradition at your home, long hours over a hot stove can e a bit too much for your joints. Cut down on cooking time by starting a few new traditions.
-Make it a potluck. Why do you have to do all the cooking? Ask friends and family if they can bring a certain dish to share.
-Offer a buffet. Why lug all the dishes from the kitchen to the table? Make it a buffet. Line up plates, food, then utensils and napkins. Your guests will enjoy not having to mess with utensils while filling up their plates.
-Order out. Leave food preparation to someone else. Local caterers and grocery stores can provide dishes or entire meals. You can try such places as www.Kroger.com or www.honeybaked.com.
-Get mobile. If you must cook, a supportive stool with wheels will help you move around the kitchen more easily, and it will help you save energy.
-Go disposable. Washing dishes doesn’t have to be part of the tradition. Use disposable and inexpensive cooking tins. Dixie’s Stoneware even offers decorative dining plates and bowls.

Finally, just remember to do what you can to prevent stress from wrecking your holidays. Stress lowers your immunity and you could be prone to an infection or full fledged flare. Remember to stop and rest, especially at the first sign that you’ve overdone it. Be sure to enlist help if needed. If you do overdue it, an ice pack will help swollen joints and a heating pad helps sore muscles. Taking time to relax, whether it’s listening to music or soaking in a hot tub, will help you better cope with the holidays.

Treatment For Depression On The Net?

A new study has found that depression treated on the internet is as effective as in person sessions with a therapist. Researchers say those with depression doing self help sessions reported similar improvement to those seen in previous studies of patients who go to clinical environments. These findings could be valuable to sufferers in rural and remote areas who have difficulty accessing therapists.
In a study, published by Swedish scientists in the British Journal of Psychiatry, gives credence to the vast majority of self help courses offered online for years. One study examined 177 Swedes suffering from mild to moderate depression. One group underwent an internet therapy treatment while a second group received no formal treatment. They found that those receiving internet therapy reported decreased depressive symptoms immediately after treatment and at a six month follow up. Benefits also included anxiety relief and a better quality of life. They concluded that it is a proven form of treatment for mild depression.
Researchers however expressed concern over the high drop out rate, which was 37 percent, of those receiving internet treatment. Anita Abrams, a clinical psychologist, said that quite a few had to be excluded when it became clear they required treatment at a more personal level. But she feels that anything that reaches out to people may help save a life and it's worth persisting.

Largest Survey On Major Depressive Disorder

Research from the largest survey of psychiatric disorders among U.S. adults indicated a larger picture than previously reported of major depressive disorder (MDD) in specific population groups. The National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) also indicated a strong relationship of MDD to alcohol use disorders, drug disorders and other mental health conditions.
Researchers at Columbis University's Mailman School of Public Health reported middle age, female , Native American, low income, separation, divorce or widowhood increased the likelihood of current or lifetime MDD. The most striking findings to emerge from the study were the elevated rates of major deprssion in baby boomers and in Native Americans. This was expressed by lead author Deborah Hasin, PhD, professor of clinical Epidemiology at the Mailman School.
Research involved interviews with more than 43,000 non-institutionalized individuals over 18 years with questions that reflect diagnostic criteria established by the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The findings conclude that five percent experienced MDD during the 12 months preceding the survey and 13 percent experienced MDD at any time during their lives. Notable is the shift among the highest lifetime risk from younger adults during the 1980's and 1990's to the middle-aged adults of today. Dr. Hasin feels this is an improtant transformation in the distribution of MDD in the general population and specific risk for those aged 45-64.
The risk of the onset of MDD increases between age 12 and 16 and more gradually up to the early 40's when it begins to decline, with mean age of onset at about 30. Women are twice as likely then men to experience MDD and are more likely to receive treatment. About 60 percent of those with MDD received treatment specifically for the disorder. Of all who experienced MDD, nearly half wanted to die, one third considered suicide, and nine percent attempted suicide. Research also shows that those with MDD, 14 percent have an alcohol abuse disorder, 5 percent have a drug use disorder, and 26 percent are have a dependence for nicotine. More than 37 percent have a personality disorder and more than 36 percent have at least one anxiety disorder.
These results demonstrate a strong relationship of MDD to substance dependence and a relationship to substance abuse. The NESARC also found strong relationships between MDD and anxiety disorders. MDD was strongly associated with personality disordrs. Mailman School colleague Renee Goodwin, PhD, assistant professor of Epidemiology believes this study provides the grounds for further investigation in a number of areas. Complete findings were published in the October 2005 Archives of General Psychiatry.

10 Ways To Take Control Of ADHD

At first you may think that posivie thinking and ADD have nothing to do with each other. But many with ADD develop negative thinking habits due to frustration of challenges and frequent feelings of being overwhelmed. This negative outlook makes it harder for us to manage those challenges and move forward positively. By practicing positive thinking, you're allowing yourself to focus on your strengths and accomplishments, which then increases happiness and motivation. This then allows us to spend more time progressing and less time feeling down and often times stuck. Here are a few tips to help you start feeling more positive.
1.Take care of yourself. You can be positive by eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest.
2.Remind yourself to be grateful. Reminding yourself of the things going right in your life make challenges and stresses seem alittle smaller.
3.Don't make assumptions. Our fears are usually not reality. If you think a friend is mad at you, ask them. Don't waste time worrying unless you have proof there is something to worry about.
4. Don't us absolutes. Have you ever said to someone "You're always late!" Using absolutes like always and never makes things seem worse then they are. And it programs your brain into believing that certain people are incapable of delivering.
5.Detach from negative thoughts. If you're having a negative thought, detach from it, and let it go. Thoughts can't hold any power over you if you don't judge them.
6.Squash the "Ants"-Automatic negative thoughts. These are usually bad thoughts that are reactionary, like "Those people must be laughing about me." When you notice these thoughts, realize what they are and squash them!
7. Practice Lovin', Touchin', and Squeezin'. Positive physical contact with friends and loved ones is an instant pick me up. It even works on pets! One study showed that a waitress recieved higher tips from people she touched then ones she didn't.
8. Increase you social activity. Increasing activity will decrease loneliness. Surround yourself with happy, positive people who will affect you in a positive way.
9. Volunteer or help someone out. Investing your time, money or energy makes everyone feel good. The more positive energy you put out, the more you'll recieve.
10. Combat rumination with pattern interruptions. If you're ruminating, do something different. Rumination is never productive. Try changing your physical environment by going for a walk, calling a friend, or turning on some music.

New Treatment For Depression

Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy, VNS, is a recently approved long-term treatment for depression. The FDA specifically approved this treatment for those who suffer from major depressive episodes, but who have not had an adequate response to four or more antidepressant treatments. Major depressive disorder affects nearly 19 million Americans each year. Unfortunately, one fifth do not respond to multiple antidepressant treatments. For these people, psychotherapy, medications and even sometimes electroconvulsive therapy does not work, or only works for a short while then stops working over time. This is refered to as Treatment Resistant Depression,TRD.
VNS therapy was first approved for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy in 1997 and is now available for those 18 years and older with TRD. Dr. Sarah H. Lisanby, director of the Columbian Brain Stimulation Service at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, believes patients need safe and effective therapeutic options. The availability of the FDA approved treatment is an important development for the disturbingly large number of people with depression who have not responded to other treatments. She believes that open studies suggest that the benefits were sustained over time with very tolerable and few side effects. Half of the patients with an average of 25 years of major depressive disorder saw some benefit. One third had at least a 50 percent improvement and one out of six was depression free after treatment. They also reported signficant improvements in their quality of life.
The VNS therapy is delivered through a small device similar to a pacemaker that is implanted in the chest area. It sends mild pulses to the brain through the vagus nerve that is located in the neck. A thin, insulated wire is attached to the generator and runs under the skin to the left vagus nerve. The nerve serves as the body's "information highway" that connects the brain to many major organs. Studies have shown what VNS therapy may modulate neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine thought to be involved in mood regulation.

How To Beat Stress

Stress Can have thousands of causes, but the ultimate remedy is to just let it go. First remember the saying "this too shall pass". Often , just letting the problem be is a good solution. When things get rough, stop, take deep breaths, and relax. Things you can do to slow down and let go include taking a break, nap, bath, or going for a walk. The problem for alot of people is that they get caught up in their problems and lose perspective on what matters most. Being calm and collected is the source of success, health, and happiness. If you follow the Serenity Prayer, which says change the things you can and accept the things you can't, stress will be a small, manageable part of your life.

Many Bipolar Adults Have ADHD

Dr. William Niederhut, a Denver psychiatrist and Harvard Medical graduate, claims in a recent book that many adults who suffer bipolar disorders may also have ADHD. They are suffering an inherited disorder which he calls Childhood-Onset Bipolar Attention-Deficit syndrome. He says that with this, adults usually experience episodic depression, irritability and anxiety in their childhood years, along with symptoms of ADHD. The ADHD prevents them from responding fully to treatments using antidepressants or mood stabilizers.
First identified in children by researchers at Harvard a decade ago, psychiatrists studying bipolar disorders have been slow to recognize and treat successfully the syndrome in adults. The adult form of this has not even been clearly named. Dr. Niederhut became interested in this research two years ago after both of his daughters were diagnosed with childhood bipolar disorders. Then he recognized a mild form of this syndrome in himself, and he began to identify its features in many of his adult patients. He found that the syndrome is quite common in adults and can be successfully treated, often with dramatic results. Functioning better at work and in their personal lives, many of his patients now feel well for the first time in their lives. They no longer have the symptoms of depression, ADHD or mania with the proper treatment. His new book is called, "The COBAD Syndrome: New Hope for People Suffering from the Inherited Syndrome of Childhood-Onset Bipolar Disorder with ADHD." Here he has published his findings from the past two years along with a summary of the research data on the subject. His book calls for a paradigm shift in bipolar diagnosis and treatment. Because ADHD is an integral, disabling part of the disorder, psychiatrists need to identify and treat it. They need to do more than stabilize moods for those with this disorder.

Liar, Liar Pants on Fire

Do you believe that drug companies feed you the truth? If so, I'll bet you believe in the Tooth Fairy too. The latest player in drug maker scandles is Warner-Lambert Co., who allegedly lied to doctors about Neurontin's effectiveness, claiming the epilepsy drug could be used to treat pain, headaches, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder and alcohol detoxification.

As resitution for its deceptive marketing practices, Warner-Lambert was court-ordered to pay a $430 million national settlement for illegally promoting the epilepsy drug Neurontin for uses not approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA).

Neurontin is FDA-approved for epilepsy and nerve pain related to shingles. However, 90 percent of Neurontin usage is for "off-label" use.

While physicians are free to prescribe drugs for off-label use, federal law prohibits drug makers from marketing drugs for treatments that are not approved by the FDA.

Here's what got Wanrner-Lambert in toruble - From 1992 to 2004, Warner-Lambert paid doctors to promote Neurontin and trained them to submit false billing statements in order to get Medicaid and Medicare to pay for the drug.

Parents, if your doctor has prescribed Neurontin for attention deficit disorder or bipolar, I would suggest you take a serious second look at that prescription and decide whether or not you trust it.

Parents: Recognize the Signs of Teen Depression

Depression Affects 1 out of Every 8 American Teens.
Only 20% Get the Help They Need. How Can

Depression affects more than 1 million teens each year. That's one out of every 8 teenagers -- no small amount. Yet only about 20 percent of these teens get the help they need. Moms and dads, it's important to be able to recognize the signs of depression so that you can help your child.

Depression is more than feeling blue, being sad, or being down in the dumps every so often. Depression is a strong mood that lasts for weeks, months, or even longer. Depression often interferes with a person's ability to participate in his or her normal activities.

Signs of Depression in Teens:

-- Depressed mood or sadness most of the time (for what may seem like no reason)

-- Lack of energy, feeling tired all of the time

-- Inability to enjoy things that used to bring pleasure

-- Withdrawal from friends and family

-- Irritability, anger, or anxiety

-- Inability to concentrate

-- Significant weight loss or gain

-- Significant change in sleep patterns (inability to sleep, stay asleep, or get up in the morning)

-- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

-- Unexplained aches and pains (even though nothing is physically wrong)

-- Pessimism and indifference (not caring about anything in the present or future)

-- Thoughts of death or suicide

If you think your teen may have the signs of depression, don't dismiss them or think they'll go away by themselves. Recognizing whether it's just a passing "phase" or something more serious is crucial to getting help for you or someone you care about.

The most important thing you can do is let your teen know you're there for him or her. Encourage your teen to talk about his or her feelings. Your child needs to understand that these feelings matter and that you truly care.

Sex, Drugs and Depression

A new study shows that depression among young people occurred after substance and sexual activity. Once believed that sex and drug behaviors were used to "self-medicate" depression, this study shows that it's the other way around. Published in the October issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the study uncovers gender-specific pathways to depression. This study demonstrates the added risks to sex and drug use and warns parents to be on the look out.

According to the 2003 Youth Risk behavior Surveillance survey almost half of high school students have has sex, 45 percent have had alcohol, 22 percent have smoked pot during the previous month, and 29 percent have experienced symptoms of depression. Feelings of sadness and hopelessness lasting more than two weeks has stopped them from participationg in normal activities.

Data was analyzed from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, which included almost 13,500 kids in grades 7-11. Students were interviewed in 1995 and 1996. Investigators found that sex and drug use increased the predictability of depression. Depression did not predict sex and drug use behaviors among the teens. Simply put, those who reported experimenting with substances or sex in 1995 were more likely to report depressive symptoms in 1996 than those who abstained from such behavior.

The study also indicates gender-specific associations between risky behavior and depression. Girls who experimented with substances or sex and those using alcohol were 3 times more likely to be depressed the followoing year than those who abstained. Also, girls having multipe sex partners and involved with intravenous drug use were 11 times more likely to be depressed the next year. In Contrast, boys who used marijuana and those who used marijuana and had multiple sex partners were 4 times more likely to be depressed the next year than those who abstained. Therefore, contrary to previous reports, these findings suggest that sex and drugs do come first.

Can Computer Exercises Improve Your Memory?

If you've seen ads about computer exercises that will improve your memory, think twice before you buy. Author of "The Harvard Medical School Guide to Achieving Optimal Memory", Aaron Nelson, PhD., compares computer exercises to physical exercises. He says " it's like going to the gym for an hour and expecting a perfect physique as a result".

Challenging your mind can help keep dementia at bay, but sitting in front of your computer is not a quick fix. In 2003 a study was conducted at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Of the 469 adults, those who were most mentally active had a 63 percent lower risk of developing dementia than those who rarely read or played mentally challenging games.

Mind challenging games, like cross-word puzzles, increase brain cell reserves and the connections between them. They also seem to link stored memory and knowledge in order to solve new problems. So while some computer games may help your memory, don't forget that reading and other games are just, if not more, as beneficial.

ADHD Medications Over-Prescribed

A study reported by the Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, concludes that although they can be useful, stimulants used to treat ADHD in children are probably over-prescribed.

The report says cautiously that many children taking stimulants have only mild symptoms of ADHD or don't have any at all. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 4 million children between 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADD. With boys being more susceptible than girls, this is roughly 6.5 percent of the population. 65 percent of these children are treated with stimulants. Government statistics also show that stimulants are being prescribed to those who have not been diagnosed with the problem.

Many factors are necessary in diagnosing ADHD including a series of interviews, and assessment of school performance, and emotional and learning difficulties. The report warns parents to be leary if a doctor makes a diagnosis and prescibes a medicine after only one visit. They recommend a second opinion if there's any questions after the initial diagnosis. Experts also believe that more than one doctor or therapist should be involved in the evaluation process.

Finally, the Consumer's Union does warn that stimulants have negative side effects such as sleeplessness, loss of appetitie, stomach pain, and headaches. The FDA is currently conducting a review of reports of side effects including psychotic episodes, suicidal thoughts, instant death, and liver failure in people taking these medicines.

Work Days Lost Due to Stress

In 2003, the most recent data available, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 3,820 work days were lost due to anxiety, stress or neurotic disorders. According to Norma Malcolm of the BLS in Chicago, it's unclear just how accurate that figure is. One reason it's hard to track is that people aren't going to admit their problems to their employers.

According to the World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, employees who can't adapt to the stresses that come along with their jobs ar costly for business. The organization reports that more than 13 million workdays worldwide are lost each year from stress, anxiety, and depression. Among the main stressors include work overload, lack of recognition, poor relations with supervisors, low participation in decisions and poor communication.

Work-related stress is a very significant psychological issue for employees. One reason for the increased stress is the job insecurity that employees feel due to the amount of turnover. The days of working for a company for 25-30 years and then retiring are over. Recent technology such as pagers, e-mail, and cell phones were supposed to help make life easier and save time, but instead it has people thinking they can accomplish more. Shift work, longer hours, and too many responsibilities are other factors that can cause anxiety in the workplace.

People should think about how well the job fits them. They should be aware of stress-related symptoms such as feeling overwhelmed, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, changes in energy, and irritability and headaches. If a job is stressful, people should determine what time of the day they work best to do the more difficult or mundane tasks at that time. People need to have a sense of control in the workplace and they need to develop positive and healthy work relationships.

Outside of work, a healthy diet and consistent sleep schedule are critical to maintain balance. Employees also need to establish boundaries between their job and personal lives. People tend to give up their time with friends or do fewer social activities when they're stressed. By being social outside of work is what refreshes us and provides us with energy so that we're able to meet today's demands. She summarizes by saying that stress in moderate levels can be motivating, exciting and challenging, but people need to evaluate their situation to be aware if they're under too much stress.

Kids Need To Get Outside

A growing number of experts have been studying the effects of nature on children’s behavior, emotional well-being, creativity, and academic achievement. They’re saying that it doesn’t look good.

One study, done by the California Department of Education, showed the effects of outdoor-science classes for at-risk sixth graders. When compared to a similar group that studied indoors, they found that the outdoor students improved their math and science scores by 27 percent. They also showed to be more cooperative, attentive, and more likely to get along with their fellow students.

Other research has shown that children with ADD have a better ability to concentrate, can complete tasks, and can follow directions better after having playtime in green, natural settings. Children deprived of contact with nature tend to be more depressed, anxious, and have lower self-esteem. Author Richard Louv recently named this “Nature-deficit disorder”.

By the 1990’s, the area around people’s homes that children were allowed to play had shrunk to a ninth of what it had been in 1970. They say that today’s average 8 year old can better identify cartoon characters then native species. In the past five years the rate in which doctors are prescribing antidepressants has doubled. While at the same time, the average time spent viewing TV had risen to four hours. One study has found that due to the increased demands on their time, from homework and structured activities, children’s play time has dropped 25 percent between 1981-1997. No one is suggesting letting children run off unsupervised. But they do suggest that parents try harder to ensure that their children get their needs for nature met.

Children on Sleeping Pills!

The use of sleeping pills in children and adolescents has risen 85 percent between 2000-2004. This is yet another sign that parents and physicians are increasingly turning to prescription medications to solve their children’s health and behavioral problems.

In 2004, more than 181,000 children and young adults between 10 and 19 were given sleeping pills. This is out of 41 million people in that age range, according to a study by Medco Health Solutions, a managed care company. Because no sleep medication had been approved for use in children under 18, few of these prescriptions have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Still, doctors commonly use medications for patients and disorders for which the drugs have never received FDA approval, particularly when whose patients are children.

Medco found that 15 percent of people under the age of 20 who received sleeping pills were also on medication for ADHD. It is known that most ADHD meds can cause insomnia. So are children being treated for insomnia caused by hyperactivity or insomnia caused from the ADHD medication?

According to the New York Times, the rising drug use is partially due to the expensive marketing campaigns of makers such as Lunesta. Experts expect sleeping pill use to increase even faster this year.

The trend of medicating our youth has become alarming and, in some cases, a vicious cycle. Consider this; children and teens suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea, which can make them hyperactive, are often misdiagnosed with ADHD and given a stimulant. Insomnia is one of the most common side effects of these stimulant ADHD medications - Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall. These children then need another drug to counteract the insomnia, when all the while, all they really need

It is therefore suggested that such problems be treated by teaching the child relaxation techniques and other sleep oriented behaviors to help them sleep.

Stressed Out?

If you are as busy as I am, it is hard to take time to take care of your body.

If you can't get away and take a vacation, take a non-working weekend, or lunch with a friend to turn your mind away from your troubles. Exercise regularly as this tempers the body's reaction to stress. Try not to gobble "comfort foods" which can build belly fat, a risk factor for heart disease.

JUST TRY HARDER!

How many times have you heard that you can do anything if you just try hard enough? Although this is a very appealing thought, it is just not always true. No matter what words you use to encourage a child, they will not change the child's neurology or biochemistry.

For instance, asking a child with Attention Defecit Disorder to try harder just may backfire. Studies show that the part of the brain involved in executive functioning will actually shut down if asked to do more than one is capable of. So, rather than just saying "try harder", offer your child a tool to actually help balance his biochemistry so he can gain better control and live a most productive life.

Are ADHD Drugs Effective & Safe?

A review conducted by the Drug Effectiveness review Project at Oregon State University concluded that there were no good quality studies that examined the long term safety and effectiveness of ADHD medications. An analysis of more than 2200 studies of 16 drugs revealed evidence on the effectiveness to be seriously lacking. This group, set up by 12 US states to provide independent information, analysed data from six pharmaceutical manufacturers. They rejected 2107 of the studies due to unreliability and reviewed the remaining 180 reports. The study found that evidence on the use of drugs to affect outcomes relating to academic performance, consequences of risky behaviors, and social achievements was lacking. They stress the importance in finding out if it truly is ADHD that children suffer from. A child given medicine for ADHD may be inattentive due to eyesight problems or problems at home.

Prescription Drugs More Deadly Than Terrorism

Since 2001, 490,000 people in the United States have died from prescription drugs. In the same time period, only 2,996 people in the U.S. have died from terrorism, all in the 9/11 attacks.

The reported prescription drug deaths were a result of medication mistakes. By comparison, this country spends about eight times more on deaths due to medical mistakes than we project to spend next year on Homeland Security.

Stress and Your Health

Are you stressed to your limit? Be careful. Research has shown a direct link between stress and increased cholesterol levels.

During stressful times, chemical messengers are released that prepare your body for responding. These hormonal changes can raise your total cholesterol. There are also indirect links between stress and cholesterol levels. For example, if your response to stress is lighting up a cigarette or grabbing a bag of chips, you are creating habits that raise levels of LDL's (bad cholesterol) and reducing levels of HDL's (good cholesterol).

In today's world it is nearly impossible to completely avoid stress. You can however lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels simply by learning to STAY CALM. You may even choose to work through stress by walking.

So....put down the cigarettes and pick up the walking shoes.

Depression Linked To Sleepiness

Are you sleepy? You may be depressed.

Pennsylvania State University pshyciatry professor Edward Bixler, PhD, conducted a study which revealed that the number one risk factor for excessive daytime sleepiness was depression.

Over 16, 000 men and women participated in this study. Daytime sleepiness was seen equally among men and women. Although sleep apnea is often said to be the reason for excessive sleepiness, the study showed that depression was the cause more often than BMI, diabetes, smoking and sleep apnea.

People seeking help for excessive daytime sleepiness should be screened for depression, obesity and diabetes.

DO NOT OVERLOOK A CASE OF THE BLUES

Are you feeling a little down? Beware! Research shows if you have mild depression, you are six times more likely to fall into major depression.

If you are experiencing some, but not all, of the many symptoms of depression, for even a short period of time, you may have a case of mild depression.

In the medical field, cases of mild depression can be overlooked. Many physicians see depression as a “black or white” issue (you are either depressed or you’re not). Some physicians do not diagnose depression unless you have all/nearly all of the warning signs while others will diagnose mild depression if you have at least two, but no more than 5 of the following symptoms:

-feeling sad/tearful
-drop in interest in activities
-change in weight and/or appetite
-sleeping too much or too little on a daily basis
-feeling restless/sluggish
-feeling worthless/excessively guilty
-trouble concentrating
-fatigue/loss of energy regularly
-suicide thinking/attempts; thinking about death frequently

The term “mild” depression would lead one to believe it almost insignificant. To the contrary, mild depression is actually more common than major depression and can be just as debilitating.

Many factors can cause the transition from mild depression to major depression. A study, done in Baltimore, MD, showed that people who had strokes were much more likely to develop major depression. The same study also revealed a deadly fact: depressed heart attack survivors were at greater risk of dying or developing more heart problems within two years.

There are many things that can increase feelings of depression, or turn mild depression into major depression. Alcohol can have a negative effect on mood, and misuse or abuse of alcohol, tranquillizers and sleeping medications, or narcotics can all play a major role in the length and severity of depression. The link between cannabis abuse (as opposed to use) and depression is also widely documented. Life experiences, such as job loss/financial difficulties have also been proven to bring on depression or further advance one’s feelings of hopelessness.

For those who are not diagnosed until they are suffering from major depression, there is hope. Although major depression can be a devastating illness, it is highly treatable. Between 80 and 90 percent of those suffering from serious depression can be effectively treated and return to their normal daily activities and feelings. Many types of treatment are available, and the type chosen depends on the individual and the severity and patterns of his or her illness. There are three basic types of treatment for depression: medications, psychotherapy, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). They may be used singly or in combination. It is becoming very common, for those suffering from depression, to use more natural alternatives in treatment. This includes all natural supplements, self-help techniques, exercising and changing their diet. Studies show a high success rate with these natural alternatives, without the side effects of prescription medication.

Another important fact, with both mild and major depression, is that rate relapse incidents can be very high. Therefore, once diagnosed with depression, a patient and his/her physician will want to watch very closely for recurring symptoms so that, again, treatment can begin immediately.

As with any other illness, depression is treatable and the earlier it is diagnosed, the sooner healing can begin.

Exercise May Make You Smarter

Using mice and memory tests, researchers have discovered that exercising can increase the production of neurons in the memory region of the brain. Previous research only suggested that exercise increased the development of brain cells in young mice. But by also using older mice, the study suggests that exercise also helps them. This leads to the promise that seniors may be able to boost their brainpower. The study also suggests that those with diseases such as Alzheimer's could be able to replace brain cells by engaging in physical activity.
The study showed that older mice that exercised on a running wheel developed new brain cells and were able to learn a new task faster then those who didn't exercise at all. This was due to the production of neurons in the memory part of the mouse brain. If the findings also hold true for people, they suggest regular workouts might give seniors a boost in brainpower and it might even help forestall the dementia people can get as they get older. Researcher Fred Gage of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in LaJolla, Ca. suggests that it's never too late to get moving. The mice in the study were about 70 in human years, and they developed an edge in brainpower after exercising for only a month. Previous research used mice that were about 20 in human years. This study is the first to show the benefits in older mice as well. Gage and his colleagues allowed a group of old and a group of young mice unlimited access to a running wheel. The mice ran about 2 miles each day. A third group of mice were kept from exercising. After a month of regular exercise, the researchers then tested the mice on memory. Placing them in water, the mice were first shown where the platform to stand on was located. Then they had to find it on their own, even when it was hidden in cloudy water. The researchers found that the older mice who exercised did just as well as the younger ones. They remembered the location of the platform and quickly swam there without much trouble. However, the older mice that didn't exercise daily had trouble locating the platform, showing a decline in memory. In most cases, the mice swam around aimlessly and either never found the platform, or found it by chance. When the team examined the mouses' brain tissue, they also found that the older mice that had been exercising had more significant amounts of cells in the hippocampus, the part of the brain that helps with memory and the ability to learn new tasks. Gage says that the mice that didn't exercise produced very few brain cells. William Thies of the Chicago-based Alzheimer's Association says this study suggests that people with brain destroying diseases such as Alzheimer's might be able to replace and build brain cells as a result of daily workouts. The findings also indicate that healthly older people might be able to reverse some of the normal age-related loss of brain cells with only a daily walk.
Public health experts recommend that adults get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. They feel that building fitness into every life helps prevent heart disease, diabetes and might offer an edge in old age. People shouldn't wait for researchers to confirm these findings. This new study adds yet another compelling reason to get your body moving.

Other ways to improve your brainpower....

Research at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston recently concluded that the more sleep you get, the better you will remember. They believe that during sleep, newly formed memories get organized in the brain. Therefore, the more you sleep, the better your chances of retaining the information. These findings may explain why infants, who are constantly learning, require so much sleep.

With Alzheimer's effecting 4.5 million already, and another 350,000 per year, researchers suggest that some simple steps can be taken to help. First, in a 10 year study of 1,800 women and men, those who drank juice three times a week had a 75 percent lower risk of dementia. Researchers at the University of South Florida speculate that the high concentrations of polyphenols, or cell-protecting antioxidants, may be the reason. Second, exercise sends blood to the brain, improving memory. Singing while working out further boosted retention for 70 percent of those that participated in the Japanese study. Finally, Swedish and American researchers found that out of 100 pairs of twins, those who had lost many teeth due to gum disease were four times as likely to develop Alzheimer's. They said that bacteria in the mouth may cause chronic inflammation, which could slow down blood flow to the brain.

Adult ADHD Meds Double

New research shows that the use of prescription medication for ADHD is growing at a faster rate among adults than children.
The use of drugs that help keep ADHD patients focused, doubled among adults 20-44 between 2000-2004. But according to data compiled by Medco Health Solutions, one of the countries largest prescription benefit manager, it only rose 56 percent among children during that time. The study also shows that among women 20-44, use of prescriptions rose 113 percent and 104 percent among those between 45-64, both far more than men. They also point out that spending on the medicines has quadrupled. Experts say reasons for the increase include better drugs, advertising, and parents of children recently diagnosed with ADHD realizing they too have the symptoms. Dr. Robert Epstein, Medco's chief medical officer, told the associated press that doctors are now seeing about 1 percent of adults being treated and 4 times as many are estimated to have ADHD. This means that nearly 1.5 million Americans 20 and older are taking ADHD medicine. Dr. Patricia Quinn, a developmental pediatrician at the National Center for Gender Issues and ADHD, and an advisor to Children and Adults with ADHD, an advocacy group, says that these figures dispel the earlier beliefs that children grow out of ADHD. She says that 50 percent of adults still have problems that affect their functioning. And now, many are staying on their medication beyond adolescence.
Part of the increase is due to awareness of the disorder among the public through advertising. Eli Lilly and Co., makers of Strattera, have been running TV adds aimed at adults who may not realize they have the disorder. Also, the makers of Adderall XR and Concerta have advertised in magazines geared to parents of kids with ADHD.
ADHD has symptoms that include trouble concentrating, impulsively, disorganization, procrastination and hyperactivity. Along with behavioral therapy, medication is good because it can improve adults' relationships, parenting skills, job performance, even their sex lives, according to Dr. Edward Hallowell, author of a new ADHD book called, "Delivered from Distraction". With new, brand-name versions that last all day, limiting the ups and downs of symptoms, sales have soared from $759 million in 2000 to $3.1 billion in 2004, according to IMS Health, a pharmaceutical information and consulting firm. And as drug makers receive regulartory approval specifically to market to adults, the market for ADHD drugs could easily double.
Boca psychologist, Dr. Susan Levin, believes that while there are benefits for some adults, others are just stressed out and are being misdiagnosed. Boca psychiatrist, Dr. Eric Rutshtein feels that more adults are being diagnosed due to better diagnosis procedures. He points out that adults don't just get ADHD, they had it when they were kids too. He says that 3-7 percent of the nation's children have ADHD and a third of them have the disorder with the same intensity in adulthood. Dr. Levin also points out that while stimulants and non-stimulants are used to help some, doctors cannot act cavalier with the symptoms of ADHD. In our overstressed society, many symptoms can be describing a very stressed out, overloaded person.

Strattera Linked to Suicidal Thoughts

The Oct. 1 edition of the ADHD Help Center newsletter addresses recent news that links Strattera to suicidal thoughts in children. 2005 has certainly been an eye-opening year to the dangers of ADHD medications. In February Canadian officials, after reviewing reports of 20 deaths and 12 strokes linked to Adderall XR, pulled the drug off the shelves. A study released in February showed that Ritalin is linked to an increased risk of cancer later in life. Strattera was found to cause liver failure and Concerta was found to cause psychotic thoughts, hallucinations and death.

The simple fact is that these medications have risks and some of these risks are quite serious and potentially deadly. This does not mean that ADHD drugs do not have their place in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder but it is our opinion that drugs should be a last resort instead of the first course of treatment. There are viable options and alternatives to pharmaceutical medications. It is our hope that everyone solidly research the risks and benefits of all treatment options so that they can then make educated and healthful decisions.

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