Getting Ahead of ADHD

July 17, 2017
Nigg, professor of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, presents a wide-ranging and practical approach for parents facing a child’s diagnosis of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Nigg gives a detailed rundown of what scientists know about the disorder and includes a thorough chapter on the topic of epigenetics (gene expression), thereby reassuring parents that while a child may inherit a genetic “propensity” for ADHD, a variety of factors influence whether or not the condition actually appears. In separate chapters Nigg covers how food, exercise, sleep, technology use, and trauma, among other factors, relate to ADHD. With each discussion he offers action steps, provides a rundown of current scientific studies, and steers interested readers toward resources for further reading. Noting that cases can vary widely and that children can be on the “ADHD spectrum” without the full-fledged disorder, the author encourages individualized treatment plans and an “integrative approach” that considers medication along with alternative and complementary methods. Parents will find reassurance, hope, and step-by-step action plans in this coherent guide to the current and evolving science on ADHD.