ADHD, A Made Up "disease". http://www.chiro.org/pediatrics/ABSTRACTS/Designer_Disease.shtml

ADD/ADHD:   The "Designer Disease" This section was compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C. Send all comments or additions to:   Frankp@chiro.orgAn excerpt from a very good article.

"The DSM is the only way that ADD is diagnosed. Here's how it's done. In the DSM, ADD has nine symptoms listed under it. If a child has any six of them, in the opinion of the doctor (or the teacher!) that child may be diagnosed as having ADD. That's it! Funny thing is, it seems like most of these entries on the list are not symptoms of a mental disorder, but just symptoms of being a kid: 

1. Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
2. Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
3. Often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it its inappropriate
4. Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
5. Is often on the go or often acts as if driven by a motor
6. Often talks excessively
7. Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed
8. Often has difficulty awaiting turn
9. Often interrupts or intrudes on others

Sound like anyone you've ever known? Some may ask if there are any kids who would not fit six of these criteria. The reader should understand that this is the only "diagnostic" "testing" that exists for determining ADD. Six out of nine. No lab test, no blood tests, no physical examination whatsoever, no standardized batteries of written or verbal psychological testing. Just these nine. And unlike any other disease in history, the diagnosis may be made by anyone in authority, with no medical credentials or training whatsoever: the school nurse, school counselor, a teacher, the principal, a coach ."

While this article will rile thousands of parents who find comfort in hearing their child's behavior labeled a "disease" I would like to know how many people would find comfort in having all diseases diagnosed in the same mannor.

 How would you like it if your trip to the doctor consisted of him/her simply observing your most obvious behavior and then treating you, no tests, no x-rays, no proof? Hmm...your leg hurts all the time ? It's a blood clot, let's amputate. Constant headaches? You have brain cancer, we will start chemo tomorrow and schedule surgery.