Hi, I am new to this thread so please forgive me if I don't know where to ask this. I am wondering after a year of research a bunch of things. First, is it true that ADD/ADHD children can grow up to have substance abuse problems and, if so, how can you try to dodge that from happening?

Also, if family members (grandparents, etc) have a history of becoming dependent or addicted to anything, whether it be alcohol or drugs or whatever, is there of knowing if they were/are actually ADD/ADHD instead but were never diagnosed? and if they are still alive, how could you diagnose that or look for a symptom list to see if things might start making more sense.. one uncle is divorced 4 times and can't keep a job. another person is divorced 3 times and doesn't have any self esteem. just an idea of where to find charts, etc for adults and any and all info on children too

We have one child in the family that everyone can't agree if they have ADD/ADHD. teachers and one parent seem to agree but others in family that aren't so involved in child's life argue and say she doesn't have ADD/ADHD.

how do you do more research?

it would probably be best to book a doctors/specialists appointment. They will have methods of diagnosis which will probably include looking into heriditary factors. Also will looks into the symptoms etc. That is the only way you will know for sure.

Also, researching is always good. Look it up online, read books etc. But always take the diagnosis of a professional.

I have read that Ritalin can lead to addiction but it is usually not prescribed in high enough amounts to lead to addiction. Also probably something to ask a medical professional

Im not really an expert so yeah, there might be others out there that can give you some better advice.

All the best :)