Everybody seems to have their own ADHD definition depending on their vested interests or just depending on their own views on how children should be raised. There are strong lobbies out there and the biggest seems to be the drug companies who are also supported by the FDA in that they firmly believe that the only and the best way of treating ADHD is with drugs. It is a great pity that the drugs do not cure ADHD as such but merely alleviate ADHD symptoms so that we have calmer, less hyperactive and more focused children. But when we consider that children have a shorter life span than we do and that obesity and diabetes are almost out of control together with a high incidence of mental illness, then the outlook is bleak as drugs merely put off the evil day.

Another ADHD definition is influenced by the cause or what is thought to be the cause of this mental disorder. Even calling it a mental illness can cause problems in some circles. We do not know how to define ADHD and as we do not know its exact cause, one doctor remarked, "diagnosis is a mess".

There is light at the end of the tunnel though as regards treatment. While the cause, diagnosis and prognosis all come with large question marks, we are now told in no uncertain terms that unless there is some psychological and behaviour modification featured in the treatment plan alongside with medication, then the chances of living all their lives with ADHD are quite high (about 60%-75%).. At least the ADHD definition here seems to be more focused and puts the ball firmly in the parents' court.

Lots of parents' blogs talk about the need for good parenting and the reinforcement of good habits and how this should be tackled one at a time. But good behavior is rather like good habits in a way and that is what behavior therapy can help the parent to do with success. Good behavior is rewarded and negative behavior has some unpleasant consequences. This becomes crucial in the teenage years because parents have to impose curfews, homework schedules and often have to deal with aggression, violence and defiance. Not a happy family photo but behavior therapy has worked extremely well for some families.

Medication has been hotly debated and how you define ADHD can be tailored to suit your stance. Some parents argue that medication is totally necessary because if a child is not calm when you have to talk to him, then behavior therapy is just not going to work. Others claim that the condition does not need powerful mind altering drugs and that homeopathic remedies which contain Hyoscamus and Cina will reduce impulsiveness and increase focus just as effectively if not more so and without any side effects either. The debate on a realistic ADHD definition is likely to continue for some time yet.