Turtle Wing Foundation to Host Informational Workshop on ADHD

Turtle Wing Foundation will be holding an informational workshop for educators, parents and their children who are living with ADHD. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has been clinically observed for more than 200 years. It is one of the most prevalent childhood psychiatric disorders. ADHD remains under-recognized and underdiagnosed even though it is the most treatable psychiatric disorder. Overwhelming scientific evidence has lead all major medical associations and government health agencies to recognize ADHD as a “real” medical disorder. Children with ADHD are frequently labeled as problem children rather than children with a medical problem. ADHD conservatively occurs in 4% of adults and 5% of children worldwide. Scientific studies have shown that ADHD is highly heritable and is a chronic disorder that persists throughout the lifespan. There are three presentations of ADHD depending on which of the three core symptoms (inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity) present:  Predominately inattentive (previously referred to as ADD), Predominately hyperactive (very rare), Combined (most prevalent). All regulation of attention is impaired in ADHD. Over-focusing can be as much of an issue as inattention. Prioritizing attention and breaking and shifting attention can all be impaired. Executive functioning impairment and mood dysregulation also impact many children and adults with ADHD. Parenting does not cause ADHD, although specialized parents can assist with symptom impairment. Diets and limiting food additives and sugar will not cure ADHD. Treatment for ADHD should always be multi-modal. Children, adolescents and adults with untreated ADHD are at a greater risk for:  Learning difficulties, less academic success, school dropout, and fewer years of schooling; Additional mental health disorders and problems with self-esteem; Substance abuse and a greater chance of becoming involved in the justice system; More accidents and sustaining injuries, more automobile accidents and earlier death. Current lack of knowledge, skills, and integrated services in health and education sectors post major challenges for accessing effective treatments. (https://caddac.ca/adhd/understanding-adhd/in-general/facts-stats-myths/) Turtle Wing invites anyone interested in learning more to attend a workshop on Saturday, November 2 from 10 AM – 12 PM at the Lyric Theatre in Flatonia (120 E South Main St.). The discussion will be moderated by LaKeisha Brown-Moore, MSW/LCSW/Psychotherapist. This will be very interactive and we encourage all of those interested to bring their questions and concerns as well as to share their life experiences for a better understanding for all in attendance. For more information or to RSVP please contact Susie Shank at susie@turtlewingfoundation.org or call the office at 979-505-5090. Turtle Wing programming includes Early Intervention, Supplemental Services, and Community Education and Advocacy.  In last school year Turtle Wing helped to provide direct services to 325 children, with thousands more being impacted by their outreach programming. The recipients have all been from Colorado, Fayette, Lavaca, and surrounding counties with academic, social-emotional, behavioral and/or developmental needs. The mission of Turtle Wing Foundation is “helping children with learning challenges in rural areas achieve their full potential.” To learn more about Turtle Wing Foundation visit www.turtlewingfoundation.org or follow them on Facebook at @turtlewingfoundation.