Let the Mind Settle, Let Potential Bloom: A Brief Discussion on the Comprehensive Treatment of ADHD
Update Date：2025/10/03，
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Department of Psychiatry – Dr. Li Song-Tao
On September 17, 2025, the Tri-Service General Hospital held a press conference on medical achievements, where Dr. Li Song-Tao, attending physician of the Department of Psychiatry, explained that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder often misunderstood as simply being “hyperactive” or “disobedient.” With early detection and comprehensive treatment, children with ADHD can significantly improve in learning, social relationships, and emotional development, paving the way for a successful life.
Understanding ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not merely about being “restless” or “not listening,” but a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects brain function. Dr. Li pointed out that around 9% of children in Taiwan are affected by ADHD, yet only 1.6% receive a formal diagnosis, and just 1% undergo comprehensive treatment. This means many children miss the opportunity for timely support, which can hinder their academic, social, and emotional development.
A Case Study: Xiao-Ming’s Transformation
Dr. Li shared the case of “Xiao-Ming,” a second-grade boy who struggled with restlessness and poor concentration in class. He was frequently criticized by teachers, excluded by classmates, and often quarreled with his parents at home, sometimes losing control of his emotions—tearing up homework or throwing objects. After receiving a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and parental behavioral strategies, he gradually improved his ability to focus, made progress in his studies, gained friends, and rebuilt his self-confidence. Dr. Li emphasized that bringing a child for treatment is not about denying their abilities, but about providing comprehensive evaluation and understanding—helping them face fewer difficulties, achieve more successes, and believe in themselves again.
Addressing Concerns About Medication
One of the most common parental concerns is: “Will medication cause addiction?” Dr. Li clarified that commonly prescribed central nervous system stimulants (such as Ritalin and Concerta) do not cause dependence or addiction when taken at prescribed doses. On the contrary, regular treatment improves attention and emotional regulation, while reducing the risk of future smoking, alcohol use, or substance abuse.
He explained that medication works like “putting glasses on the child’s brain,” helping them perceive information more clearly and in order, so they can focus on what truly matters. Research shows that medication treatment has an 80–90% effectiveness rate, and when combined with behavioral therapy, the results are even better, significantly improving the child’s learning and quality of life.
The Role of Parents, Schools, and Society
In addition to medication, parents play a crucial role. Parenting strategies such as reward systems, time-out techniques, and positive reinforcement help children build positive experiences and improve parent-child interactions. Support from schools and society is equally important, including adjusted teaching strategies by teachers, special education assessment when needed, guidance from school counselors, and collaboration with social services and child protection agencies when necessary. Together, these form a complete support network.
Conclusion
“Treating ADHD in children is a symphony composed of medicine, education, family, and society,” Dr. Li emphasized. When society collectively understands and provides support, a child’s life can be transformed from chaotic and disorderly into a harmonious and rhythmic song of growth. He urged the public to abandon misconceptions such as “they will grow out of it” or “it’s just a parenting issue,” and instead to focus on early detection and early treatment—giving children the ability to see the world more clearly and the opportunity to shine with their unique brilliance.