Attention Deficit Disorder

Stimulant medications are banned in Olympic and NCAA competition. That may not be a problem for athletes with attention deficit, because by the end of high school most children have compensated for most of their symptoms, and if they are candidates for high-level competition, they have probably learned to concentrate and are able to be coached. On the other hand, there is really no evidence that the medications used to treat attention deficit disorder in and of themselves enhance strength, speed, or stamina. Of course, the ban exists because these medications are controlled substances and can be easily abused. However, no one in good conscience could recommend that an athlete discontinue the phenobarbitol he or she takes for epilepsy, even though it is also a narcotic. Similarly, athletes with exercise-induced asthma commonly use albuterol inhalers, which allow them to breathe normally so they can compete to the best of their ability. Likewise, when wisely used, medications for hyperactivity may allow young athletes to do their best.

One final note: A bonus of athletic activity is that, if parents participate with their child, barriers are let down and more meaningful communication can occur. For example, although attempts at dinner conversation may be futile, dialog may flow freely if parent and child go outside to shoot baskets together.