I have to say I cringe every time another “expert” has come out with a documentary on ADHD. They are dry, depressing, and make ADHD sound like this death sentence for you or anyone with ADHD. Most of the time I watch these documentaries they make me so frustrated and I start to throw objects at the TV. So, when my sister called me up and told me there was a show about ADHD on OPB I was very skeptical. The next day I decided to look more into it and was very impressed.

When I found the website it was unlike any ADD/ADHD website that I have seen. The people behind it have ADD themselves or live with someone who has it. Even some of the “experts” they have on the site have ADHD. At first I found it very strange that they do not have articles they have webcasts and 3-5 minute films. Here is their website, I’d highly recommend visiting: www.totallyADD.com

The documentary is hosted by ADDer Patrick McKenna, who is a stand-up comic and star of The Red Green Show. McKenna takes a very humorous look at ADD/ADHD, touching on such topics as; shiny objects, myths, and generally attempts to paint ADD as much less of a life-altering monster. In the film they cover most of your basic questions, such as; what it is, how it is diagnosed and what treatments are available; and dispel many myths, i.e. bad parenting, too much TV, and the effects of medication. They try to show this is a serious disorder and that it is not something that will automatically ruin your life if you have it. There is a great deal of personal testimony and just as much humor makes this point that much more valid. They have also interviewed ADD powerhouses like Edward Hallowell, author of Driven to Distraction, and Thom Hartmann, author of ADD: A Different Perception. Then it ends with a few uncomplicated and very possible solutions to manage life with this disorder, I come away feeling that this was an excellent introduction into the world of ADD but by no means is it exhaustive, I hope they will continue to create so humorous and educational material. The program will air again Saturday, Jan 1, 1:00 pm PDT for more information on schedule visit the OPB website at http://www.opb.org/.