ADD Documentary Uses Humor to Shed Light on Diagnosis

Nearly five to 10 percent of Americans have ADD, according to a documentary about the disorder hosted by comedian Patrick McKenna.

A free screening of the film ADD & Loving It?! was held at the on Sunday night, followed by a Q&A by host and ADD life coach Dale Davison. Mark Stein, a researcher at University of Illinois at Chicago, was also there to answer questions regarding treatment for ADD.

The film uses lighthearted humor to shed light on the challenges that people with ADD face. Interviews with researchers and McKenna's own experiences of being diagnosed as having ADD put to rest many misconceptions people may have about the disorder, including the idea that ADD can be outgrown.

The disorder, often characterized by distractibility, forgetfulness, unexplained underachievement and impulsivity, poses a lifelong challenge for those who have it. It can lead to other problems outside of its symptoms. In the film, McKenna discusses his "formative years" when he was scolded for being easily distracted and energetic. Experts say that this lack of understanding from loved ones can lead to co-morbid disorders like anxiety and depression.

However, as Davison explained, someone with ADD can lead a successful and fulfilling life as long as one seeks treatment.

"Its manageable, its treatable, its ongoing," Davison said. "If you can put the proper supports for yourself in place, then you can have a very good life. You can create the life that you want for yourself."

Experts recommend that people with ADD find the right diagnostician to help treat their disorder, whether or not they decide to take medication. It's also important to engage in regular self-care, including proper diet and exercise.

McKenna isn't the only celebrity to have been diagnosed. Richard Bronson, Howie Mandel, Winona Judd and James Carville were just a few of the public figures mentioned in the documentary as having ADD, an unsurprising fact given that creative risk-taking, charisma and high energy are also associated with the disorder.

As a life coach, Davison started to focus on clients with ADD because of the sheer number of people she met who were diagnosed. Davison also has friends and family members who have been affected by the disorder.

"Everybody in this field either knows someone, loves someone or works
with somebody who has ADD," Davison said.

Stein, who has worked in the field for more than 25 years, said that he became interested in ADD after working as a camp counselor for second-grade boys. Witnessing the difference that medication made in the life of one boy inspired Stein to pursue ADD research.

"I think people tend to overfocus on ADHD being good or bad, but what they really should focus on is that its a disorder that can be identified and treated," Stein said. "It can make a big difference. That's what's exciting."

Davison will be holding a lecture on the science behind ADHD at the
Women's Exchange in Winnetka at 10 a.m. Friday For more
information, visit www.womens-exchange.org.

To find out more about ADD or ADHD, visit the ADHD Coaches Organization, the
Attention Deficit Disorder Association and Children and Adults with
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.