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Last updated on Wednesday, June 5, 2013
(TERRE HAUTE) - Indiana ranks second in the nation in the percentage of kids taking medicine ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Dr. Darla Hinshaw has 20 years of experience in child psychology.
Jon Swaner, of WTHI reports, in that time, she's seen major strides in the field, especially when it comes to Autism awareness.
Hindshaw says it was 1 in 200 kids were diagnosed, now it is 1 in 50.
All kids with autism have some form of ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Nearly 12 percent of Hoosier kids ages 2 to 17 have an ADHD diagnosis.
That ranks Indiana 4th in the nation.
At the same time, 9 percent are taking ADHD medications, making Hoosiers 2nd only to Louisiana.
Hinshaw says more awareness of ADHD is getting the kids the treatment they need. She also credits teachers with educating themselves about the disorder.
Despite the state's high rankings by the CDC, Hinshaw thinks many kids who need treatment are not diagnosed.
On the other hand, she's interested in seeing if parental substance abuse plays a hand in the CDC's figures saying she believes some parents are getting their children diagnosed, get the medication and either sell it or take it themselves.
ADHD medications are controlled substances.
Parents must present photo I.D. to their doctor and at the pharmacy for the medicines.
Another treatment option some pediatricians use is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy instead of medication.
Hinshaw says her experience shows that a combination of therapy and medication helps kids get better faster and stay better longer.
To read more on this story visit http://www.wthitv.com/dpp/news/indiana/ind-ranked-nationally-for-child-adhd#.Ua9LlkC1E68
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