Attention Deficit

Hyperactivity

Disorder(ADHD)

Attention Deficit

Disorder (ADD)

An

Introduction

To

Only a

Mother

Could

Love

HimMy Life with

and Triumph over ADD

BEN POLIS

Presented By:

Allison - Darryl - Holly - Kirstie

The Life Of Benjamin Polis

Author: Age 19

2009-2012 C.E.O. – Energy Watch Group

“I feel that

impulsivity is the

best gift I could

be given.”-Ben Polis

Characterized by excessive activity and inability to concentrate on one task for any length of time

Broken down into the following subtypes:

1. Inattentive

2. Hyperactivity

3. Impulsivity

Attention Deficit Disorder

“I was sick and tired of

always being looked

upon as that „crazy little

child‟ who seemed to be

a burden to everyone.” -Ben Polis

“How I Describe My Disability.”

How Ben Described His Disability

A gift that allowed him to be creative and unique

Made him Impulsive, with lack of control

Thought to be a “bad kid” before teachers knew him

Parents were blamed for his problems, rather than the disability

Made him easily bored

How Ben Described His DisabilityCaused him to have trouble concentrating

Made it difficult to fully apply himself

Made it difficult to contain his emotions

Made subtlety in social situations confusing

Made it difficult to notice when he was being spoken to

Ben’s Strategies

Focused better when isolated & wearing a “thinking hat”

Did better with consistent working space

Needed to physically release anger in safe environment

Used individual sports as a physical outlet for aggression and for building self confidence

Needed to be able to move around during class

Medication helped but was not a fix-all

Benefited from large amounts of structure

Teachers needed to offer both patience andconsistent consequences

Responded to rewards and topics that focused on his interests

Needed strong family support and understanding

Needed interesting and engaging material

Ben’s Strategies - continued

Aggressiveness Associated With ADHD

Most important to know about ADHD

Aggression is common because ADHD amplifies emotions so that a child that is prone to cry will cry even more. A child that is angry will be even more angry.

At increased risk for developing other types of behavior disorders:

- Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

- Conduct Disorder (CD)

Why is it important?

The long-term outcomes for children are likely much worse than only ADHD children.

My Life With And Triumph Over ADD?

Now in his 30‟s, he

has turned it all

around - well almost!

Ben’s Struggle With ADD/ADHD

Only a

Mother

Could

Love

HimMy Life with

and Triumph over ADD

BEN POLIS