=== Center of Attention ===
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
24 November 2003

**********************
>>  IN THIS ISSUE    <<
**********************

*Calendar of Events
*Announcements: New Women's Reading/Support Group begins January
*Feature Article: Senate Receives IDEA Bill and Report
*Please Tell Us
*Subscription Information
*CHADD Information

******************************
>>     CALENDAR OF EVENTS    <<
******************************

Marin - 11/24/2003, Mon.  12:30am-2:30pm
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerley: 415-383-6048
============================
Contra Costa - 12/3/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Goal Setting Challenges, Part I --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 12/4/2003, Thu. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Developing Minds--Behavioral Complications -- This video explores
behavioral problems that may stem from a child's poor performance in
school.  Practical strategies that teachers and parents can use to
help children manage inappropriate behaviors such as acting out,
anger and aggression, as well as social skills difficulties that can
interfere with academic and social success are presented. - No
reservations needed.  Free.
San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco - Contact: SFPL  Resource
Collection for LDs: 415-557-4540
============================
Santa Clara - 12/4/2003, Thu. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute - "Change Your Life by Changing Your
Mind"  -- Gwenn Henkel, CMH, MH, Ph.D.(c), will tell her own
compelling story of how hypnosis gave her life back to her, what
hypnosis is and isn't, and will show how it can help make positive
and permanent changes in people's lives.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 12/9/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Impulsivity Around Money - Connie DePropis, ADD coach 510-465-6505
And Our Holiday Party !!  -- Learn how to stop spending impulsively
and avoid holiday debt.  Connie is an ADD coach with special interest
in helping ADDers change habits including spending habits and ways to
live well while getting out of debt. And it is our annual holiday
party!! Come and enjoy holiday treats and great company!!! Bring
something to share, if you wish.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 12/9/2003, Tues. 7:15 - 9 pm
Support Group for Partners! -- A new CHADD group in Palo Alto to
provide support and community-resource information for partners of
folks with ADHD.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Gina Pera: 888-759-9758
============================
Sacramento - 12/9/2003, Tues. 8:30 AM -   2:30 PM
The Ingredients of Learning and Academic Output with Dr. Mel Levine
-- Dr. Levine is a nationally known education expert, pediatrician
and author of the best selling books, "One Mind at a Time" and "The
Myth of Laziness." He will discuss: Non-labeling approach to
differences in learning, Key areas of brain development, Interaction
of brain functions to produce optimal learning, Ways teacher and
parents can observe child's developmental functioning, Insights to
approaches enabling all children to find their ways of succeeding.
DoubleTree Hotel, Sacramento - Contact: bdriscol@...,
760-736-6335, or visit www.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/peak-3/levine.pdf
============================
Alameda - 12/10/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Contra Costa - 12/10/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Contra Costa - 12/10/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Antioch Parent's Support Group - Topic TBA -- For parents and
caregivers of children with AD/HD offering the opportunity to share
stresses, strategies and successes.
Sutter Delta Medical Center, Antioch - Contact: Colleen Ruddock: 925-757-2372
============================
Marin - 12/16/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 12/17/2003, Wed. 4-6:00 PM PST
Fostering Resilience in Children -- Guest Expert: Robert Brooks, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================

*************************
>>     ANNOUNCEMENTS    <<
*************************

New Women's Reading/Support Group begins in January

A new CHADD women's reading and support group will begin on Monday,
January 5, 2004 and meet every other Monday evening through April 5th.

Members of the group travel to San Francisco from throughout the Bay
Area to exchange ADD war stories and share their wisdom with one
another. Personal and professional backgrounds are equally
varied--from intelligent and creative women who have not been able to
realize their potential, to women who are successful in their
profession but whose daily lives are nonetheless impaired by their
ADD.

Using Sari Solden's first book, Women with Attention Deficit
Disorder,  and excerpts from other reading material as a basis for
discussion and self-exploration, our objective is to find the clarity
and self-acceptance to work with our ADD symptoms and move forward
with our personal goals. The format itself is structured to provide a
model for each group to continue as a peer support group once the 8
weeks are completed.

Please contact Kali Grosberg if you wish to be put on the waiting
list for the January group. Women who inquire after mid-November will
be contacted in early December about possible openings.

You can also email Kali for information about other support that may
be available to women.

Kali.g@...

***************************
>>     FEATURE ARTICLE    <<
***************************

from "News from CHADD" Volume 3, Number 59, November 7, 2003

SENATE FINALLY RECEIVES IDEA BILL AND REPORT
Each Senator Must Hear from Citizens: Action is Needed NOW!

On November 3, 2003, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions
(HELP) Committee sent its report (S.Rpt. 108-185) and the amended text
of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
reauthorization bill (S. 1248) to the full Senate. The Senate will not
be able to recess today as originally planned, and will be in session
for at least two more weeks.

It is therefore critical that all CHADD members and supporters contact
their Senators, as well as Senate leaders Bill Frist (R-TN) and Tom
Daschle (D-SD) and HELP Committee leaders Sens. Judd Gregg (R-NH) and
Ted Kennedy (D-MA). Urge them to bring the Senate's bipartisan version
of the IDEA reauthorization bill to the Senate floor this month for
debate and a vote.

The entire bill and report can be viewed online by searching for the
bill (S. 1248) at http://thomas.loc.gov or going to the Senate HELP
Committee's homepage, http://health.senate.gov.

If you view the bill, please note that the first 370 pages contain the
original version; pages 371-778 contain the final revised wording.

Below is a letter from the co-chairs of the Consortium for Citizens with
Disabilities' (CCD) Education Task Force, including CHADD director of
public policy Stephen Spector, J.D., which was sent last Friday, asking
for action on IDEA. Use it to create your own message and then call,
write, fax, or e-mail the Senators to urge them to bring this bipartisan
bill to a vote at once. You can use CHADD's Legislative Action Center to
contact the Senators. Please let CHADD know if you receive replies to
your requests.

---------------------
(Current Date), 2003

Dear Senator Frist and Senator Daschle:

We write to urge you to bring S. 1248, a bill to reauthorize the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, to the Senate floor for
consideration and final passage before Congress adjourns this year. The
Education Task Force of the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities is
comprised of over 40 national organizations representing parents and
families of children with disabilities, special education and related
services personnel, disability organizations and service providing
organizations.

While we understand that the Senate floor schedule is crowded, we urge
you to make room for this important bipartisan bill that provides for a
free appropriate public education for over 6 million students with
disabilities. The Senate HELP Committee has worked diligently for months
with input from all stakeholders to craft this bipartisan compromise
legislation that was endorsed by the Committee unanimously in a 21-0
vote on June 25th. Please ensure that this bipartisan effort continues
by finding floor time for the bill as soon as possible.

Thank you for your leadership on behalf of America's children with
disabilities.

Sincerely,

(Your Name Here)

CC:  Senator Gregg, Chairman, HELP Committee
	 Senator Kennedy, Ranking Member, HELP Committee


**************************
>>     PLEASE TELL US    <<
**************************

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the editor.

Lew Mills, Editor

************************************
>>     SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION    <<
************************************
UNSUBSCRIBE
      To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
      Center_of_Attention-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

      This will not affect your CHADD membership.

SUBSCRIBE
      If this was forwarded to youŠ
      You can subscribe by sending an e-mail to:
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      Feel free to forward this newsletter to others
      and they can subscribe the same way.

CHANGE ADDRESS
      To change your e-mail address, simply:
        1. Unsubscribe from the old address
        2. Subscribe from the new one

*****************************
>>     CHADD INFORMATION    <<
*****************************
Visit our webpage at http://www.chaddnorcal.org  if you wish toŠ
     * See the up-to-date schedule
     * Read this newsletter and the archives
     * Join CHADD of Northern California or renew your membership

About the Newsletter:

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.

* CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support *

Contact:
--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

=== Center of Attention ===
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
1 September 2003

**********************
>>  IN THIS ISSUE    <<
**********************

*Calendar of Events
*Announcements:  Three New Groups and The CHADD Latino Forum!
*Feature Article: "You Can Be In Research" (Reprise Edition)
*Please Tell Us
*Subscription Information
*CHADD Information

******************************
>>     CALENDAR OF EVENTS    <<
******************************

============================
Contra Costa - 9/3/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: The Systems Checklist --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 9/4/2003, Thu. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute - Monthly Speakers Meeting  -- (First
Thursday of the month)
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit http://www.kpinst.org
============================
Southern California - 9/5/2003, --- through 9/7/03
"AD/HD Across the Lifespan" -- A three day conference presented by
Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and USC, with sponsorship from CHADD
The Radisson Hotel, Culver City, CA - Contact: Childrens Hospital Los
Angeles: Call (323) 669-2300 or visit http://www.uscuap.org
============================
Santa Clara - 9/6/2003, Sat. 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. tentatively
ADHD Outreach Conference - in Spanish!
== en Español ==
Christ the King Catholic Church, 5284 Monterey Hwy, San Jose -
Contact: CHADD Latino: 888-432-7174 (Español)
============================
Marin - 9/9/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Is It AD/HD or a Learning Disability? - Barbara Easterlin, PhD
415-847-2540 -- Dr. Easterlin will compare ADHD and various learning
problems in adults and children and discuss whether and how they are
related.  She will describe ways to diagnose and treat these
challenges. She is a licensed clinical psychologist In private
practice and a Staff Psychologist at the UCSF Langley Porter
Hyperactivity, Attention, and Learning Problems (HALP) Clinic.
http://psych.ucsf.edu/Patients/halp.asp
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 9/10/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Antioch Parent's Support Group -- A NEW group for parents and
caregivers of children with AD/HD offering the opportunity to share
stresses, strategies and successes.
Sutter Delta Medical Center, Antioch - Contact: Colleen Ruddock: 925-757-2372
============================
Marin - 9/16/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 9/17/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
AD/HD and School Success -- Guest Expert: Ann B. Welch, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
Alameda - 9/17/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Contra Costa - 9/17/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Napa - 9/18/2003, Thu. 7 - 9 pm
New Support Group!  -- A new CHADD group is forming in Napa to
provide support groups, community resource information, monthly
meetings on topics of interest, and an opportunity to network with
other adults, parents, and professionals. Members and non-members of
CHADD are all welcome.  CHADD cares!
St. John's Lutheran Church, Napa - Contact: Karen Shepard:
707-257-8113, or Jill O'Reilly at 224-3414.
============================
Yolo - 9/18/2003, Thu. 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
The Within and Without of Treating AD/HD: Strategies for helping
work, school, families, hearts and minds. - Dr. John Capel -- CHADD
welcomes all with interest or concerns regarding attention deficit
disorder. An extensive library of books, articles, tapes and videos
will be available for browsing and check-out at 7:15PM with a
refundable deposit.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929 or online at
http://www.chaddonline.org/chapters/chadd295.html
============================
Santa Clara - 9/27/2003, Sat. 8am to 5 pm
FOCUS ON WOMEN AND GIRLS WITH ADHD, with Patricia Quinn, M.D., and
Kathleen Nadeau, Ph.D.  -- Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute's Annual
Symposium
Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara - Contact: Kitty Petty
ADD/LD Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit http://www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 9/29/2003, Mon.  12:30am-2:30pm
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Santa Clara - 10/2/2003, Thu. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute - Monthly Speakers Meeting  -- (First
Thursday of the month)
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit http://www.kpinst.org
============================
San Mateo - 10/4/2003, Sat. 8 am to 3 pm
Dyslexia in Adults and Teens: Challenges and Strategies for Success
-- Sponsored by the Northern California Branch of the International
Dyslexia Association
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
International Dyslexia Association: 650-328-7667 or visit
http://www.dyslexia-ncbida.org
============================

*************************
>>     ANNOUNCEMENTS    <<
*************************

* Three New Groups and The CHADD Latino Forum!

Take a careful look through the Calendar this month. With the
beginning of the school year we have new support groups starting in
Antioch (East Contra Costa County) and Napa! We also have a new
session of the Women's Reading/Support Group (See Below).

Next Saturday we are sponsoring our first Spanish language conference
in San Jose which will in turn launch our first Spanish language
support group!

Sadly, the support group in Sonoma is windidng down. Please see if
you might be interested in the Napa or Marin groups.

* Women's Reading/Support Group - San Francisco

Using Sari Solden's first book, "Women with Attention Deficit
Disorder" and excerpts from other reading material as a basis for
discussion and self-exploration, our goal is to learn how to respect
our limits and build on our strengths.

The second group will meet for 8 sessions on alternate Monday
evenings beginning September 8, 2003. There is still room for 2 more.
Members are asked to be at all or most of the meetings, do the
reading and keep a journal.

Please contact Kali Grosberg if interested in joining, or if full,
getting on a waiting list for the next group. Also, email her for
information about other support that may be available to women.

<kali.g@...>

As with all of our meetings, members are free; nonmembers, we ask for
a donation. This group is by registration only.

***************************
>>     FEATURE ARTICLE    <<
***************************

"You Can Be In Research!"

     by Lew Mills, PhD, MFT (Reprise Edition)

We all know that we don't know enough about ADHD. But how do you
suppose we find out more? As much as I enjoy the
schmooze-around-the-support-group method of discovering more about
ADHD, it never substitutes for what we can learn from rigorous
research. One of CHADD's principle commitments is to evidence-based
science about what ADHD is and how to treat it most effectively.
Where would we be without research?

But did you know that you can help out at this research level? Many
ADHD investigators are looking for "subjects" for their studies. It
is not so "guinea pig"-like as you might think. Sometimes there is a
reward! Other times there is some information that you will learn
about yourself or your family member from participating. There may
also be treatments for you at no cost. Always there is the
satisfaction of helping move science forward in this important area.

CHADD frequently gets asked to help recruit volunteers, and since we
support this activity, we are happy to do so. On our web site there
is a page dedicated to informing you about currently open research in
which you can participate in Northern California. This is at
www.chaddnorcal.org/research

We have just recently revised the Research Page with intriguing
studies on sustained release medications, images of your brain,
intelligence and achievement testing, and more!

There is also a link there to a similar page on the National website
which has more research studies from other areas or that you can
participate in by long distance.

(If you contact one of these studies and they are no longer accepting
subjects, please let us know so that we can remove the listing. Thank
you.)

Send suggestions of links about research requests to webmaster@...

**************************
>>     PLEASE TELL US    <<
**************************

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the editor.

Lew Mills, Editor

************************************
>>     SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION    <<
************************************
UNSUBSCRIBE
      To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
      Center_of_Attention-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

      This will not affect your CHADD membership.

SUBSCRIBE
      If this was forwarded to youŠ
      You can subscribe by sending an e-mail to:
      Center_of_Attention-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

      Feel free to forward this newsletter to others
      and they can subscribe the same way.

CHANGE ADDRESS
      To change your e-mail address, simply:
        1. Unsubscribe from the old address
        2. Subscribe from the new one

*****************************
>>     CHADD INFORMATION    <<
*****************************
Visit our webpage at http://www.chaddnorcal.org  if you wish toŠ
     * See the up-to-date schedule
     * Read this newsletter and the archives
     * Join CHADD of Northern California or renew your membership

About the Newsletter:

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.

* CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support *

Contact:

--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

=== Center of Attention ===
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
18 August 2003

**********************
>>  IN THIS ISSUE    <<
**********************

*Calendar of Events
*Announcements: Lots of Group News!
*Feature Article: (Still on Vacation!)
*Please Tell Us
*Subscription Information
*CHADD Information

******************************
>>     CALENDAR OF EVENTS    <<
******************************

============================
Marin - 8/19/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 8/20/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Career Counseling and Workplace Issues -- Guest Expert: Wilma
Fellman, M.Ed., L.P.C.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
Contra Costa - 8/20/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Sonoma - 8/27/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and support meeting.   -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 8/27/2003, Wed. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
NOTE DIFFERENT ROOM, one time only! August 27, 2003 we will meet at
CPMC, California Campus (3700 California Street in Presidio Heights)
in the Bothin Conference Room on the B level.
CPMC California Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Contra Costa - 9/3/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: The Systems Checklist --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Southern California - 9/5/2003, --- through 9/7/03
"AD/HD Across the Lifespan" -- A three day conference presented by
Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and USC, with sponsorship from CHADD
The Radisson Hotel, Culver City, CA - Contact: Childrens Hospital Los
Angeles: Call (323) 669-2300 or visit www.uscuap.org
============================
Santa Clara - 9/6/2003, Sat. 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. tentatively
ADHD Outreach Conference - in Spanish!
== en Español == See the web for details!
Christ the King Catholic Church, 5284 Monterey Hwy, San Jose -
Contact: CHADD Latino: 888-432-7174 (Español)
============================
Marin - 9/9/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Is It AD/HD or a Learning Disability? - Barbara Easterlin, PhD
415-847-2540 -- Dr. Easterlin will compare ADHD and various learning
problems in adults and children and discuss whether and how they are
related.  She will describe ways to diagnose and treat these
challenges. She is a licensed clinical psychologist In private
practice and a Staff Psychologist at the UCSF Langley Porter
Hyperactivity, Attention, and Learning Problems (HALP) Clinic.
http://psych.ucsf.edu/Patients/halp.asp
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 9/10/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Antioch Parent's Support Group -- A NEW group for parents and
caregivers of children with AD/HD offering the opportunity to share
stresses, strategies and successes.
Sutter Delta Medical Center, Antioch - Contact: Colleen Ruddock: 925-757-2372
============================
Marin - 9/16/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 9/17/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
AD/HD and School Success -- Guest Expert: Ann B. Welch, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
Alameda - 9/17/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Contra Costa - 9/17/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Napa - 9/18/2003, Thu. 7 - 9 pm
New Support Group!  -- A new CHADD group is forming in Napa to
provide support groups, community resource information, monthly
meetings on topics of interest, and an opportunity to network with
other adults, parents, and professionals. Members and non-members of
CHADD are all welcome.
St. John's Lutheran Church, Napa - Contact: Karen Shepard:
707-257-8113, or Jill O'Reilly at 224-3414.
============================
Santa Clara - 9/27/2003, Sat. 8am to 5 pm
FOCUS ON WOMEN AND GIRLS WITH ADHD, with Patricia Quinn, M.D., and
Kathleen Nadeau, Ph.D.  -- Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute's Annual
Symposium
Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara - Contact: Kitty Petty
ADD/LD Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
San Mateo - 10/4/2003, Sat. 8 am to 3 pm
Dyslexia in Adults and Teens: Challenges and Strategies for Success
-- Sponsored by the Northern California Branch of the International
Dyslexia Association
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
International Dyslexia Association: 650-328-7667 or visit
www.dyslexia-ncbida.org
============================
Alameda - 10/8/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Marin - 10/14/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Living  With Someone with ADHD - Joan Wenters, PhD 510-816-0772 --
Learn to live more harmoniously with children, teens or adults who
have ADHD. Joan is a licensed clinical psychologist in private
practice in Albany and on the staff at the Child Development Center
at Children's Hosptial Oakland. She specializes in the assessment,
diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, learning disabilities and other
learning-related problems in children and adults.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 10/15/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Higher Education: Getting In and Succeeding -- Guest Expert: Lynda Katz, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
San Francisco - 10/25/2003, Sat. 9 am - 5:00 pm
Dr. Bob Brooks & Dr. Mel Levine Speak! -- Schwab Learning presents an
all day conference with these leading authorities on ADHD and
Learning Differences. $45. Details soon...
Hyatt Regency (Embarcadero), San Francisco - Contact: : For
registration or more information, please visit
www.schwablearning.org/Event
============================
Out of Area - 10/29/2003, --- through 11/1/2003
AD/HD Through the Years: From Science to Practice  -- The 15 th
Annual CHADD International Conference on
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity  Disorder
Adam's Mark Denver Hotel, Denver, CO - Contact: See Website: www.chadd.org
============================

*************************
>>     ANNOUNCEMENTS    <<
*************************

New Parent Group in Antioch (East Contra Costa)

We have just started a CHADD parent support group in Antioch. Colleen
Ruddock has been working hard to make this happen. The location is at
Sutter Delta Medical Center in Antioch.

If you are interested in helping get this started, or want to attend,
please contact Colleen at (925) 757-2372, or by e-mail:
cutiecol@...

We hope for a big group in September!

==========

Napa: New Support Group!

A new CHADD group is forming in Napa, 9/18/2003, at St. John's
Lutheran Church. See the schedule!

Call or email: Karen Shepard at 257-8113 or Jill O'Reilly at
224-3414, jerjil1012@..., for further information.

==========

SF Women's Reading and Support Group is still open for new members

The women's reading and support group has been meeting for 3 months,
using Sari Solden's "Women With Attention Deficit Disorder" as a
foundation for discussion. The group just ended and a new group will
begin in September.

See www.chaddnorcal.org/SanFrancisco/womensreading.htm for more information.

If you have questions and/or would like to be put on the waiting
list, e-mail Kali Grosberg at kali.g@...

==========

Please note that the San Francisco Adult Success group has had to
find new space for just the August meeting date. See the Schedule for
details.

==========

***************************
>>     FEATURE ARTICLE    <<
***************************

The Feature often takes a back seat to everything else that is going
on. We'll be back with more in two weeks, we hope!

**************************
>>     PLEASE TELL US    <<
**************************

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the editor.

Lew Mills, Editor

************************************
>>     SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION    <<
************************************
UNSUBSCRIBE
      To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
      Center_of_Attention-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

      This will not affect your CHADD membership.

SUBSCRIBE
      If this was forwarded to youŠ
      You can subscribe by sending an e-mail to:
      Center_of_Attention-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

      Feel free to forward this newsletter to others
      and they can subscribe the same way.

CHANGE ADDRESS
      To change your e-mail address, simply:
        1. Unsubscribe from the old address
        2. Subscribe from the new one

*****************************
>>     CHADD INFORMATION    <<
*****************************
Visit our webpage at http://www.chaddnorcal.org  if you wish toŠ
     * See the up-to-date schedule
     * Read this newsletter and the archives
     * Join CHADD of Northern California or renew your membership

About the Newsletter:

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.

* CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support *

Contact:

--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

=== Center of Attention ===
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
4 August 2003

************************
>>  IN THIS ISSUE    <<
************************

*Calendar of Events
*Feature Article: (We'll have a feature article next time)
*Please Tell Us
*Subscription Information
*CHADD Information

********************************
>>     CALENDAR OF EVENTS    <<
********************************

Online - 8/4/2003, Mon.  5:00 pm - 6:15 pm PST
Are you new to AD/HD? Or do you want to learn more about it? We will
have a Q and A session, so bring your questions!
www.addconsults.com/digichat
Contact: mailto:terry@...
============================
Contra Costa - 8/6/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Social Skills Issues for Adults
with ADHD --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Alameda - 8/13/2003, Wed. 7 - 8:45 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting -- Summer location: Pleasanton Public Library
Pleasanton Public Library, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Marin - 8/19/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 8/20/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Career Counseling and Workplace Issues -- Guest Expert: Wilma
Fellman, M.Ed., L.P.C.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
Contra Costa - 8/20/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Sonoma - 8/27/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and support meeting.   -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 8/27/2003, Wed. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Contra Costa - 9/3/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: The Systems Checklist --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Southern California - 9/5/2003, --- through 9/7/03
"AD/HD Across the Lifespan" -- A three day conference presented by
Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and USC, with sponsorship from CHADD
The Radisson Hotel, Culver City, CA - Contact: Childrens Hospital Los
Angeles: Call (323) 669-2300 or visit www.uscuap.org
============================
Santa Clara - 9/6/2003, Sat. 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. tentatively
ADHD Outreach Conference - in Spanish!
== en Español == -- Hold the Date - Details following soon!
Christ the King Catholic Church, 5284 Monterey Hwy, San Jose -
Contact: CHADD Latino: 888-432-7174 (Español)
============================

*****************************
>>     FEATURE ARTICLE    <<
*****************************

(To resume in two weeks)

****************************
>>     PLEASE TELL US    <<
****************************

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the editor.

Lew Mills, Editor

**************************************
>>     SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION    <<
**************************************
UNSUBSCRIBE
      To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
      Center_of_Attention-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

      This will not affect your CHADD membership.

SUBSCRIBE
      If this was forwarded to youŠ
      You can subscribe by sending an e-mail to:
      Center_of_Attention-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

      Feel free to forward this newsletter to others
      and they can subscribe the same way.

CHANGE ADDRESS
      To change your e-mail address, simply:
        1. Unsubscribe from the old address
        2. Subscribe from the new one

*******************************
>>     CHADD INFORMATION    <<
*******************************
Visit our webpage at http://www.chaddnorcal.org  if you wish toŠ
     * See the up-to-date schedule
     * Read this newsletter and the archives
     * Join CHADD of Northern California or renew your membership

About the Newsletter:

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.

* CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support *

Contact:
--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
21 July 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Announcements:
    New Parent Group in East Contra Costa
    SF Women's Reading Group open for new members again
    CHADD of Northern California Election Results
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Sonoma - 7/23/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Summer Book Club!  -- Was there a book that really helped you
understand ADD?  Clarified issues on medication?  Maybe it gave you
an organization tip that worked?  A parenting technique that solved
bedtime battles?  Or perhaps a passage that let you finally stop
blaming yourself?  Please bring that book and share it with others at
the meeting, and pick a paragraph to read out loud if you'd like.
You'll go home with lots of good information and a list to take to
the library or bookstore.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 7/23/2003, Wed. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Alameda - 8/13/2003, Wed. 7 - 8:45 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting -- Summer location: Pleasanton Public Library
Pleasanton Public Library, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Marin - 8/19/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 8/20/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Career Counseling and Workplace Issues -- Guest Expert: Wilma
Fellman, M.Ed., L.P.C.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
Sonoma - 8/27/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and support meeting.   -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 8/27/2003, Wed. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Southern California - 9/5/2003, --- through 9/7/03
"AD/HD Across the Lifespan" -- A three day conference presented by
Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and USC, with sponsorship from CHADD
The Radisson Hotel, Culver City, CA - Contact: Childrens Hospital Los
Angeles: Call (323) 669-2300 or visit www.uscuap.org
============================
Santa Clara - 9/6/2003, Sat. 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. tentatively
ADHD Outreach Conference - in Spanish!
== en Español == -- Hold the Date - Details following soon!
Christ the King Catholic Church, 5284 Monterey Hwy, San Jose -
Contact: CHADD Latino: 888-432-7174 (Español)
============================

======== Announcements ==========

    New Parent Group in East Contra Costa

We are about to start a CHADD parent support group in East Contra
Costa. Colleen Ruddock has been working hard to make this happen. The
likely location is at Sutter Delta Hospital in Antioch.  If you are
interested in helping get this started, or want to attend, please
contact Colleen at (925) 757-2372, or by e-mail:
cutiecol@.... We hope to begin for September!

    SF Women's Reading Group is open for new members again

The women's reading and support group has been meeting for 2-1/2
months, using Sari Solden's "Women With Attention Deficit Disorder"
as a foundation for discussion. The group will end the first week in
August and a new group will begin in September. See the Northern
California CHADD website for more information. If you have questions
and/or would like to be put on the waiting list, email Kali Grosberg
at kali.g@....

    Election Results

There were gratifying affirmations of dedicated leadership and a
robust interest in getting involved at every level this year. The
results are available on the CHADD of Northern California
Organizational Chart, at:
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/ExecBoard/OrgChart.htm

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the right
place.


--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
7 July 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Announcements: Don't forget the elections, July 12.
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
Marin - 7/8/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Couples Communication: Strategies for couples with an ADD partner -
Joel Crohn, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, 415-456-1166 -- Learn how to
transform frustrating patterns. Dr. Crohn has written & researched on
this topic for 25 yrs.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 7/9/2003, Wed. 7 - 8:45 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting -- Summer location: Pleasanton Public Library
Pleasanton Public Library, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Marin - 7/15/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 7/16/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
AD/HD and Co-Occurring Disorders -- Guest Expert: Jefferson Prince, M.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
San Francisco - 7/23/2003, Wed. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Alameda - 8/13/2003, Wed. 7 - 8:45 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting -- Summer location: Pleasanton Public Library
Pleasanton Public Library, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Marin - 8/19/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 8/20/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Career Counseling and Workplace Issues -- Guest Expert: Wilma
Fellman, M.Ed., L.P.C.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
San Francisco - 8/27/2003, Wed. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Southern California - 9/5/2003, --- through 9/7/03
"AD/HD Across the Lifespan" -- A three day conference presented by
Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and USC, with sponsorship from
CHADD
The Radisson Hotel, Culver City, CA
============================
Santa Clara - 9/6/2003, Sat. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. approximately
ADHD Outreach Conference - in Spanish!
== en Espanol == -- Hold the Date - Details following soon!
Christ the King Catholic Church, San Jose - Contact: CHADD Latino: 888-432-7174
============================

======== Announcements ==========

Don't forget the elections on July 12. All the information that you need is at:

http://www.chaddnorcal.org/ExecBoard/Election03-04/Ballot-proxy-announcment.htm

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the right
place.


--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
27 June 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Election Special
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Election Special ==========

The contents of this e-mail newsletter should also arrive in the
postal mail for every current member of CHADD of Northern California.
If you do not get the mailing and believe that your membership is
current, you can e-mail us by replying to this message.

It may be easiest to wait for your postal mail letter or download the
forms and directions from the web at:

http://www.chaddnorcal.org/ExecBoard/Election03-04/

-------------------------------
Dear Members of CHADD of Northern California:

In accordance with CHADD policy relating to CHADD Chapter elections,
the CHADD Chapter of Northern California will hold its annual
election for the Chapter Board of Directors and Officers by written
ballot on Saturday, July 12, 2003, at 3 pm, at The Friends Meeting
House, 957 Colorado Ave. Palo Alto, CA.

Directions are at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/schedule/directions/Friends.htm

The election will be open to all current CHADD members, and only
Chapter members in good standing may hold a Chapter Board or Officer
position. Interested Chapter members may announce their intention to
seek election to any Chapter leadership position at the elections and
will be considered in the voting process. A list of members in good
standing will be used at the meeting to identify who may vote.

The election will be conducted by a chapter election team who is not
standing for election and who has been appointed by the Chapter's
Board to assist with the election process. Each candidate will have a
maximum of three minutes to address the meeting and answer questions.
A simple majority of votes cast shall determine the outcome.

The ballot is copied below and is also available on the CHADD of
Northern California website in PDF format. The URL is:

http://www.chaddnorcal.org/ExecBoard/Forms/Ballot03-04

You can:

1. Bring your ballot with you to vote in person at the election
2. Complete your ballot now and have a proxy vote it for you in
person at the election
a. Proxy votes must be cast by a CHADD member who is present at the election
b. You must sign the proxy form on the last page of the ballot
c. You may fax your ballot and signed proxy to the Chapter at
888-759-9758 to be counted by the election team.
3. You may receive a ballot and vote it yourself at the election.

Each CHADD membership is entitled to one vote. If, for example, both
a husband and wife attend the election and they have a CHADD "Family"
membership, they may cast only one vote.

The Chapter Nominating Committee has met to consider and develop a
slate of candidates for Officer and Board positions. At this time,
the Nominating Committee recommends the slate of candidates in the
first column.

Write-in votes are allowed for any position.

Vote for just ONE candidate in each race, or your vote cannot be counted.

Any necessary clarifications will be posted at:

http://www.chaddnorcal.org/ExecBoard/Election03-04

Questions will be answered at 888-759-9758

Thank you for your continued support of CHADD of Northern California!

======================
Nominating Committee Recommendations are listed first for each position


Chapter Coordinator
Northern California
Lew Mills, PhD
Geoffrey Mangers
Write-in

County Coordinator
Marin
Beverlee Kell
Against or Write-in

County Coordinator
Santa Clara
Michael Hinckley, PhD
Geoffrey Mangers
Write-in

County Coordinator
Sonoma -
Doug Miller
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Greenbrae, (Marin) - 10N
Beverlee Kell
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Pleasanton, (Alameda) - 40B
Joanne Matone
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Corte Madera, (Marin) - 40C
Beverlee Kell
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Mill Valley, (Marin) - 40D
Beverlee Kell
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
CHADD Latino, San Jose 40F
Lew Mills, PhD
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Santa Rosa, (Sonoma) - 142
Doug Miller
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Walnut Creek, (Contra Costa) - 299
Donna Love
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Palo Alto, (Santa Clara) - 338
Michael Hinckley, PhD
Geoffrey Mangers
Write-in

Branch Coordinator
San Francisco - 709
Rachel Rosenfeld
Against or Write-in

Branch Coordinator
East Contra Costa - pending
No Candidate
Write-in

Branch Coordinator
Napa - pending
Karen Shepard
Against or Write-in

Director of Development
Lew Mills, PhD
Against or Write-in

Director of Finance (Treasurer)
Judy Marshall
Against or Write-in

Director of Internet & Communications
Lew Mills, PhD
Against or Write-in

Inquiries Director
Professional Resource List
Mary Sheehan
Against or Write-in

Public Policy Director, (VAN)
Lew Mills, PhD
Against or Write-in

Director of Media & Public Relations
Lew Mills, PhD
Against or Write-in

Membership Director
Judy Marshall
Against or Write-in

Newsletter Editor (Director) "Center of Attention"
Lew Mills, PhD
Against or Write-in

Program Director
Lori Schifrin
Against or Write-in

Chapter Board
At Large 1
Eileen Barry
Against or Write-in

Chapter Board
At Large 2
Peggy Goodman
Against or Write-in

Santa Clara County Board
At Large 1
Peggy Goodman
Against or Write-in

Santa Clara County Board
At Large 2
Eric Hollister
Against or Write-in

Santa Clara County Board
At Large 3
Sanjay Jasuja, MD
Against or Write-in

Santa Clara County Board
At Large 4
Adele Newman
Against or Write-in

=============
CHADD ELECTION PROXY

(The proxy form can be downloaded from the web:
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/ExecBoard/Forms/Ballot03-04. But this is
what it says.)

I (blank)(Voter), a member in good financial standing of "CHADD of
Northern California", CHADD Chapter 504, hereby authorize (blank)
(Proxy)(Faxed ballots will be voted for you by the election team)
also a member in good financial standing of "CHADD of Northern
California" to cast a vote on my behalf at the consolidated Chapter
and Branch Elections to be held on July 12, 2003.

Voter's Name (Please Print)
Signature
Date


===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the right
place.


--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
23 June 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Feature Article: No Feature Today. Look for Election Special soon.
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Sonoma - 6/25/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Speaker: Bruce Gibbs, Ph.D. "Focusing" -- "Focusing" is a way to use
your bodily sense to help you minimize the effects of ADD and
Hyperactivity. Focusing was developed by Eugene T. Gendlin, Ph.D. and
has been researched for many years at the University of Chicago. You
may want to take a look at his book, "Focusing".
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
Marin - 7/8/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Couples Communication: Strategies for couples with an ADD partner -
Joel Crohn, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, 415-456-1166 -- Learn how to
transform frustrating patterns. Dr. Crohn has written & researched on
this topic for 25 yrs.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Marin - 7/15/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter? A drop-in peer-support group for organizing. -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 7/16/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
AD/HD and Co-Occurring Disorders -- Guest Expert: Jefferson Prince, M.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 888-759-9758
============================
San Francisco - 7/23/2003, Wed. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Denver, Colorado - 10/29/2003, --- through 11/1/2003
AD/HD Through the Years: From Science to Practice -- The 15 th Annual
CHADD International Conference on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder
Adam's Mark Denver Hotel, Denver, CO - Contact: See Website:
http://www.chadd.org
============================

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the right
place.


--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
9 June 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Giving Back to CHADD
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
Marin - 6/10/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Paperwork Control: Mail and Paper Piles - SueZee Poinsett, coach,
organizer, 415-492-8822 and Lin Barcellos, coach, organizer,
650-323-2122. -- Learn ways to control in-flow of mail and reduce/
purge piles papers. Meet organizers who can help. Bring your tips to
share.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 6/11/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 6/16/2003, Mon. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 6/17/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter? A drop-in peer-support group for organizing. -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 6/18/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 6/18/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Online - 6/19/2003, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
AD/HD and Organization: A Collision Course? -- Guest Expert: Judith Kolberg
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Yolo - 6/19/2003, Thu. 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
10 Steps for Dealing with ADD - Dr. Margolis, a child psychiatrist
for the Sutter Psychiatry Center. An extensive library of books,
articles, tapes and videos will be available for browsing and
check-out at 7:15PM with a refundable deposit.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929 or online at
www.chaddonline.org/chapters/chadd295.html
============================
Marin - 7/8/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Couples Communication: Strategies for couples with an ADD partner -
Joel Crohn, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, 415-456-1166 -- Learn how to
transform frustrating patterns. Dr. Crohn has written & researched on
this topic for 25 yrs.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Marin - 7/15/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter? A drop-in peer-support group for organizing. -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 7/16/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
AD/HD and Co-Occurring Disorders -- Guest Expert: Jefferson Prince, M.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Santa Clara - 9/6/2003, Sat. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. approximately
ADHD Outreach Conference - in Spanish!
== en Espanol == -- Hold the Date - Details following soon!
Christ the King Catholic Church, San Jose - Contact: CHADD Latino: 888-432-7174
============================

===== Feature Article ======

Giving Back to CHADD

Fairly often I try to tell you how CHADD can benefit you. If you are
able to help CHADD in return, financially, now I want to tell you how
to do that. Not everyone can afford a big gift to support CHADD, but
if you can, even a little, there are several relatively painless ways
that to do so. It makes a big difference in what CHADD can do for you
and others.

There are several specialty funds that you can support, which may
address specific areas you care most about.

Your donation to CHADD's Matt Cohen Scholarship Fund can rescue a
family. Every year, CHADD is able to provide a limited number of
annual memberships to applicants in dire need of national and local
CHADD services, information and support, but who cannot afford to
join. Every tax-deductible donation of $45 will make a one-year
hardship membership possible.

The CHADD Research Fund will provide small grants or seed money to
support Research Fellows, doctoral students and/or developing
scientists conducting original research on AD/HD. We hope to have
funds available in the very near future so that we can begin
accepting research proposals from new researchers.

More personally, if you want to make a memorial donation in memory of
a deceased family member or friend, CHADD will send a letter to that
individual's family acknowledging your thoughtful donation.

If you want to make a tribute donation to recognize a family member,
friend or other person, CHADD will send a letter to that individual
acknowledging your thoughtful donation. With either a memorial or
tribute donation, you will also receive a letter from CHADD
confirming that your donation has been received and that the honored
individual has been contacted.

There are also some creative ways to give, which may not involve
directly writing a check.

With the vehicle donation program, there is an easy way to take a tax
deduction on the car, truck, RV or boat you've been wanting to trade,
sell, remove or donate to a nonprofit charity and help CHADD at the
same time. Through the CHADD national program with the "National Car
Donation Processing Center" (Car Program LLP), all of the work is
done for you at no charge and you get a receipt for tax deduction
purposes.

Additionally, you can designate CHADD of Northern California to
receive a rebate of a portion of the net proceeds once the sale is
completed. We have benefited from this several times and it really
helps us substantially to move our local programs forward. Indicate
the full CHADD Chapter name and number when making your donation:
"CHADD of Northern California 504." Make your donation by telephoning
CHADD at (800) 233-4050.

Complete details and an on-line application are also available
through the National Car Donation Center web site at
http://www.donateacar.com/donation.html (look for CHADD in their
listing of charities).

Sometimes your workplace can increase the leverage of your donation.
A workplace payroll-giving pledge or direct gift to CHAD through the
United Way, the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) or other employee
deduction program is an excellent way to support CHADD's work on
behalf of people and families impacted by
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD).

The enrollment period for CFC -- like many United Way, corporate,
state, municipal and corporate campaigns -- begins in early September
and runs through November. Please remember to use CHADD's CFC No.
2555 when enrolling for the Combined Federal Campaign, which is for
federal civilian employees and members of the Armed Forces.

For United Way and other workplace programs, you will in most cases
have to write in on the campaign pledge cards the CHADD name and
mailing address: 8181 Professional Place, Suite 150, Landover, MD
20785, telephone: 301-306-7070.

Another sophisticated option is planned giving. Through planned
giving, a donor includes a charitable gift in an overall financial,
tax and estate-planning program so as to maximize benefits to both
the donor and CHADD as a charitable organization. Planned gifts
usually come from a donor's assets rather than income, and can be
either outright or deferred. It is recommended that donors consult
with their own tax or legal advisors prior to making a planned gift.

Planned gifts can include a gift by will, a gift by insurance, a
charitable gift annuity, a charitable remainder trust, or a
pooled-income fund. No, I do not understand how all of that works,
but I know that the National office can help you with it.

Here is how to contact them.

First, more information about these options is available at:

http://www.chadd.org/webpage.cfm?cat_id=8

Then you can also e-mail russ_shipley@...

Or call (800) 233-4050 ext. 110 or 123, or 301-306-7070 ext. 110.

You can even write to:

CHADD
Development Department
8181 Professional Place, Suite 150
Landover, MD 20785

For cash gifts, have ready your
- Contact information (name, address, phone).
- Credit card number and expiration date.
- If honorary or memorial donation, provide the name and contact
information of honoree or deceased person's family.

Your gift to CHADD will help the association fulfill its mission of
improving the lives of people affected by
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. CHADD is an IRS approved,
nonprofit, tax-exempt, Section 501 (c)(3) charitable organization,
and donations are tax deductible under the provisions of the IRS Code.

Thank You!

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the right
place.


--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
26 May 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Announcements: CHADD Latino Conference, 9/6/03
Feature Article: ADHD Across Cultures
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
Santa Clara - 5/27/2003, Tues. 7pm - 9:30pm
San Jose ADD self-help group -- Share struggles and strategies with each other.
School of Choice, San Jose - Contact: Geoffrey Mangers: 408-978-3149
or geoffreymangers@...
============================
Sonoma - 5/28/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Speaker: Nancy J. LoDolce, Attorney at Law.  -- Ms. LoDolce
represents families and children in general/special education
matters.  After a brief introduction and presentation, Ms. LoDolce
will open the floor to answer your questions and concerns.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
Santa Clara - 5/28/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Maximize Learning and Joy by Bridging the Gap Between Left and Right
Brain Hemispheres -- Linda Skerbee shares how the brain truly learns
and retains knowledge, and what the Myers-Briggs reveals about the
ADD personality. Book-signing after her lecture.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 6/2/2003, Mon.  12:30am-2:30pm
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...(Note that this meeting is 6/2
instead of Labor Day)
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Contra Costa - 6/4/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Strategies for Managing Impulsivity --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 6/4/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Organization! -- Susan Kloss, a professional organizer, will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 6/10/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Paperwork Control: Mail and Paper Piles - SueZee Poinsett, coach,
organizer, 415-492-8822 and Lin Barcellos, coach, organizer,
650-323-2122.  -- Learn ways to control in-flow of mail and reduce/
purge piles papers. Meet organizers who can help. Bring your tips to
share.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 6/10/2003, Tues. 7pm - 9:30pm
San Jose ADD self-help group -- Share struggles and strategies with each other.
School of Choice, San Jose - Contact: Geoffrey Mangers: 408-978-3149
or geoffreymangers@...
============================
Alameda - 6/11/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 6/16/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group (CONFIRM  this date before going. It may change.)
-- Share skills and strategies for success at home, in the workplace,
in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 6/17/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822.
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 6/18/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 6/18/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Online - 6/19/2003, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
AD/HD and Organization: A Collision Course? -- Guest Expert: Judith Kolberg
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Yolo - 6/19/2003, Thu. 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder. An extensive library of books,
articles, tapes and videos will be available at 7:15PM.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929 or online at
www.chaddonline.org/chapters/chadd295.html
============================
Santa Clara - 6/24/2003, Tues. 7pm - 9:30pm
San Jose ADD self-help group -- Share struggles and strategies with each other.
School of Choice, San Jose - Contact: Geoffrey Mangers: 408-978-3149
or geoffreymangers@...
============================

======== Announcements ==========

The CHADD Latino conference is now set. Put it on your calendar! Our
first conference that is entirely in Spanish is set for Saturday,
September 6, 2003, to be held at Christ the King Catholic Church in
San Jose. The hour is still tentative, but it will probably run from
8 to 2 pm.

See this week's article for more background on why it is important
for the Latino community, and particularly primarily Spanish speaking
families, to have access to a culturally competent CHADD.

If you would like to be involved in the planning, please let us know.

===== Feature Article ======

ADHD Across Cultures

June's Attention!® Magazine (a benefit of CHADD membership) has
several articles on ADHD across cultures. Contrary to a popular
misconception, ADHD is not just an American, white, middle-class,
suburban phenomenon. It crosses all lines. That can be particularly
baffling as we try to support each other in different cultures.

The misconceptions that people have generally about ADHD are often
repeated about different sub-groups as well. Is ADHD over-diagnosed
in some groups? (Probably not, even though diagnosis may be affected
by bias in the rating scales.) Are children from some of these groups
over-prescribed medications? (No, in fact they may have less access
to effective treatments.) Haven't these questions already been
adequately researched? (No!)

As a first step, CHADD of Northern California is now embarking in
outreach to Latino families and adults with ADHD. The Latino
community will often have further complications in treating ADHD, and
CHADD hopes to begin to address those. Ultimately we want to create a
new branch of CHADD: CHADD Latino!

There are two general categories of barriers in getting the best care
for ADHD among Latinos: access to care and cultural barriers. In
terms of accessing care, some of the barriers are financial. Of
course these barriers can affect any ethnic group, and they may get
worse as government programs become more under-funded.

A more important access issue for many immigrant groups, including
first generation Latinos, may be language barriers. Even Latinos that
would consider themselves fully fluent in English will report that
they do not feel like they have understood their doctor on important
health issues. In the worst-case scenarios a child may have to
translate the doctor's conversation for other family members or there
may be no interpretation at all.

For those of you who have English as your first language, you know
how hard it is to understand the complex information that you receive
about ADHD from your doctor. Now imagine that you have to digest that
information in whichever second language you studied in high school.
Are you baffled? The amount of material available now in Spanish,
though based on good science, is still less accessible than English
information was a decade ago. (There is no book in Spanish like
Driven to Distraction.)

With poor access to care and information, there is little
counterforce to cultural attitudes that may impede access to care.
The biggest of these might be the associated stigma of a mental
health condition. This is not an unreasonable wariness for families
that may have first hand experience of discrimination. The idea of
attaching a label by which your child may be further discriminated
against is a daunting prospect. If combined with misinformation or
lack of information, it is much less likely that a Latino family
would seek out a diagnosis of ADHD.

We all know that the consequences of untreated ADHD can be quite
dramatic: school failure, driving accidents, unwanted pregnancies,
juvenile justice incarceration and so on. In families with first
generation immigrants and fewer resources the stakes may be
overwhelming. If it is important to support families grappling with
ADHD generally, doesn't it follow that we should be bringing this to
families that face barriers to access even more so?

This is just a start. We certainly know that there are lots of other
groups and individuals that need our extra attention. We hope that
CHADD can expand its reach to help everyone.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter and CHADD of Northern
California more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the right
place.


--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
12 May 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

* Calendar of Events
* Announcements: No elections pending
* Feature Article: (We don't have a new article for this week. Sorry!
Please send us your submissions!)
* Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
Santa Clara - 5/13/2003, Tues. 7 pm
ADHD: Meeting the Challenges, Embracing the Opportunities
Edward Hallowell, M.D.  -- In his Tools for Parents lecture, Dr.
Hallowell will offer an update on his 1994 bestseller, "Driven to
Distraction" and discuss what it takes to ensure that children, no
matter what obstacles they face, grow up to be happy, well adjusted
adults. $15 for advanced tickets.
Camino Ballroom; Rickey's, a Hyatt Hotel; 4219 El Camino Real, Palo
Alto - Contact: Bay Area Parents Magazine: Call 800-657-0288 or visit
www.toolsforparents.com
============================
Marin - 5/13/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Paperwork Control: Bills and Taxes - A panel of our "Paperwork
Assistants".  -- Learn ways to pay bills on time and file paperwork
logically for next years taxes. Meet paperwork assistants who can
help. Bring your tips to share.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 5/14/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Online - 5/15/2003, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
ADD and Addiction -- Guest Expert: Wendy Richardson, M.A., M.F.C.C., C.A.S.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Yolo - 5/15/2003, Thu. 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder. An extensive library of books,
articles, tapes and videos will be available for browsing and
check-out at 7:15PM with a refundable deposit.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929 or online at
www.chaddonline.org/chapters/chadd295.html
============================
San Francisco - 5/17/2003, Sat. 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Parent Education Network Conference - "Helping LD Kids at Home and
School" -- For Parents and Educators: featuring Tucker Geerds, (a
leading expert on Learning Differences), a panel of LD kids and a
Disabilities Workshop.
Saint Ignatious High School,  - Contact: Dewey Rosetti: E-mail drosetti@...
============================
San Francisco - 5/19/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult ADD Success Group - Guest Speaker on ADD Medication -- This
month's format will be different than the regular sharing group.  Dr.
Richard Goldwasser will join us for a Q&A about medication for adults with
ADD. Individuals with ADD can bring guests (i.e. family member, partner). We
will meet in the Conference Center (on the lobby level) of CPMC
Pacific Heights Campus.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 5/20/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822. Cost: $10 donation
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 5/21/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 5/21/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Sonoma - 5/28/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Speaker: Nancy J. LoDolce, Attorney at Law.  -- Ms. LoDolce
represents families and children in general/special education matters
including mediations, hearings on special education, suspension and
expulsion issues, court appearances and other disputes involving
educational matters.  After a brief introduction and presentation,
Ms. LoDolce will open the floor to answer your questions and concerns.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: More information and directions: 707-765-4863
============================
Santa Clara - 5/28/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Maximize Learning and Joy by Bridging the Gap Between Left and Right
Brain Hemispheres -- Drawing on her 30+ years as a teacher,
psychologist and writer, Linda Skerbee shares how the brain truly
learns and retains knowledge, and what the Myers-Briggs reveals about
the ADD personality. Her book can work for all teachers and students
alike. Book-signing after her lecture.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 6/2/2003, Mon.  12:30am-2:30pm
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...(Note that this meeting is 6/2
instead of Labor Day)
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Contra Costa - 6/4/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 6/4/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 6/4/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Organization! -- Susan Kloss, a professional organizer, will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 6/10/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Paperwork Control: Mail and Paper Piles - SueZee Poinsett, coach,
organizer, 415-492-8822 and Lin Barcellos, coach, organizer,
650-323-2122.  -- Learn ways to control in-flow of mail and reduce/
purge piles papers. Meet organizers who can help. Bring your tips to
share.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 6/11/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================

======== Announcements ==========

Despite earlier rumors, there is not going to be an election for new
officers this Spring. If you are interested in taking on a more
responsible position in CHADD, please let us know and we will work
hard to find a good fit for you.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at Lew@.... Simply
replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the right
place.
--

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:Lew@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
28 April 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Announcements:  IDEA ReAuthorization
Feature Article: Bipolar Disorder, a Mixed Blessing of Endowments and Risks
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Marin - 4/28/2003, Mon.  12:30am-2:30pm
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
San Francisco - 5/1/2003, Thu. 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Overcoming Dyslexia  -- Come hear Dr. Sally Shaywitz discuss her new
book, Overcoming Dyslexia, followed by questions and answers, and a
book signing. Recommended audience: Parents, educators, adult
dyslexics, psychologists. Free.
San Francisco Day School; 350 Masonic Ave., San Francisco - Contact:
Northern California Branch of IDA : Visit www.dyslexia-ncbida.org/
============================
Alameda - 5/2/2003, Fri. 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Promoting Success for Children with Attentional Differences in the
Regular Classroom -- Designed for teachers. Send your child's
teacher, or come as a parent! With Glenn Gelfenbein, MA & Kathy
Allen, MA.
Home/Base; 2750 Todd St., Alameda - Contact: Abiliy Resource Center:
510-595-5548
============================
**** - 5/2/2003,  through 5/4/01
ADDA 2003 National Conference on Attention Deficit Disorders --
Keynote Presentations: includes the best national ADD authorities
including Hallowell, Ratey, Solden, Nadeau, Quinn, Novotni,
Goldstein, and many more.
No Directions Available, Portsmouth, VA - Contact: See Website:
www.add.org/conference.htm
============================
Contra Costa - 5/7/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 5/7/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 5/7/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Coping Skills -- Dr. Michael Hinckley will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Alameda - 5/10/2003, Sat. 9 am - 3 pm
Breaking the Code: Demystifying the Evaluation Process for Students
with Learning Disabilities -- David Berg, Nancy Cushen White, Jack
Davis and Glenn Gelfenbein guide parents, educators and allied
professionals to better understand and interpret a diagnostic
evaluation. $25
UCB Extension - International Center Auditorium; 2222 Harold Way,
Berkeley - Contact: UC Berkeley Extension: 510-642-4111
============================
Santa Clara - 5/13/2003, Tues.
ADHD: Meeting the Challenges, Embracing the Opportunities
Edward Hallowell, M.D.  -- In his Tools for Parents lecture, Dr.
Hallowell will offer an update on his 1994 bestseller, "Driven to
Distraction" and discuss what it takes to ensure that children, no
matter what obstacles they face, grow up to be happy, well adjusted
adults. $15 for advanced tickets.
Camino Ballroom; Rickey's, a Hyatt Hotel;  4219 El Camino Real, Palo
Alto - Contact: Bay Area Parents Magazine: Call 800-657-0288 or visit
www.toolsforparents.com
============================
Marin - 5/13/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Paperwork Control: Bills and Taxes - A panel of our "Paperwork
Assistants".  -- Learn ways to pay bills on time and file paperwork
logically for next years taxes. Meet paperwork assistants who can
help. Bring your tips to share.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 5/14/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Online - 5/15/2003, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
ADD and Addiction -- Guest Expert: Wendy Richardson, M.A., M.F.C.C., C.A.S.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Yolo - 5/15/2003, Thu. 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder. An extensive library of books,
articles, tapes and videos will be available for browsing and
check-out at 7:15PM with a refundable deposit.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929 or online at
www.chaddonline.org/chapters/chadd295.html
============================
San Francisco - 5/17/2003, Sat. 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Parent Education Network Conference - "Helping LD Kids at Home and
School" -- For Parents and Educators: featuring Tucker Geerds, (a
leading expert on Learning Differences), a panel of LD kids and a
Disabilities Workshop.
TBA - Bay Area,  - Contact: Dewey Rosetti: E-mail drosetti@...
============================
San Francisco - 5/19/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 5/20/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822. Cost: $10 donation
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 5/21/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 5/21/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Sonoma - 5/28/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Speaker: Nancy J. LoDolce, Attorney at Law.  -- Ms. LoDolce
represents families and children in general/special education matters
including mediations, hearings on special education, suspension and
expulsion issues, court appearances and other disputes involving
educational matters.  After a brief introduction and presentation,
Ms. LoDolce will open the floor to answer your questions and concerns.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: More information and directions: 707-765-4863
============================
Santa Clara - 5/28/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Maximize Learning and Joy by Bridging the Gap Between Left and Right
Brain Hemispheres -- Drawing on her 30+ years as a teacher,
psychologist and writer, Linda Skerbee shares how the brain truly
learns and retains knowledge, and what the Myers-Briggs reveals about
the ADD personality. Her book can work for all teachers and students
alike. Book-signing after her lecture.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================

======== Announcements ==========

IDEA, the fundamental legislation that protects children with ADHD in
schools, is up for reauthorization. The bill HR1350 has been very
controversial in this regard!

This affects you very directly, so please stay informed!

For more information, see CHADD website at: http://capwiz.com/chadd/home

When you enter your zip code, you go to a page with your Senators'
and Representative's names.

Virtually all of the other disabilities rights organizations are
mobilizing around this. One exciting alternative is a "CALL-IN Day"
from Disabilities Rights Education Defense Fund (DREDF):

"Every parent & advocate can make at least one phone call ON Tuesday,
April 29 to oppose HR 1350 in addition to other letter/fax writing &
personal visits to Congress underway in opposition to 1350"

There is also a popular online petition that you can look at:

www.petitiononline.com/IDEA2003/petition.html

Don't stay in the dark on this one!

===== Feature Article ======

Here is a summary of the NAMI Marin meeting on Monday, 4/14, by
Beverlee Kell and Joan Olsson.

Bipolar Disorder, a mixed blessing of endowments and risks

The April general meeting featured Dr. Michael Freeman, a Marin
county psychiatrist and a psychologist Robert Reiser, Ph.D., who
specialize in Bipolar Disorder. They will be offering 10-session
psycho-educational therapy groups to help individuals with Bipolar
Disorder build on their strengths and better manage moods. For more
information, they can be reached at 415-378-6678 or 415-456-5256.

Dr. Freeman described Bipolar Disorder as a constellation of special
gifts and certain risks. Those gifts may include tremendous
creativity, energy, stamina, vision, love of work, ability to think
across conventional lines, innovative novel solutions, charisma and
gregariousness associated with mania or hypomania (low-grade
mania/euphoria.) Heightened creativity often is a hallmark of the
bipolar individual as shown in such historical figures as Winston
Churchill, Van Gogh, Hemingway, Jackson Pollack, T.S. Elliott, and
Michelangelo. Research suggests that medication does not impair
creativity and definitely improves productivity.

Bipolar Disorder has now expanded to four subtypes. More than half of
those with Bipolar Disorder have an onset before age 20, so there is
a significant population of bipolar children. The most common ages of
onset are age 5, 10, 15 and 17-21. In children with bipolar disorder,
depression will manifest as social withdrawal. See the child mood
chart at www.bpkids.org.

Dr. Freeman discussed the differential diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder
and ADHD(attention deficit disorder.) Recent data shows that about
30-40% of persons with Bipolar Disorder also have ADHD (attention
deficit disorder) or learning disabilities. In children with Bipolar
Disorder, about 70% are also ADHD. About 20-30% of persons with ADHD
also have Bipolar disorder. Both disorders include symptoms of high
energy, distractibility and impulsivity. The characteristics that
seem to best differentiate Bipolar Disorder from ADHD are
grandiosity, hyper-sexuality and reduced need for sleep. When Bipolar
Disorder is treated the symptoms of distractibility and impulsivity
usually improve. Neurostimulant medication used to treat ADHD can
make Bipolar Disorder worse. When the two disorders co-occur, the
physician must use extreme care to stabilize mood first before
considering neurostimulants.

Dr. Reiser described three specialized therapies that, along with
medication, do work to prevent or reduce the severity and duration of
relapse:

1) "Family Focused treatment." He highly recommended the Bipolar
Disorder Survival Guide by David Miklowitz.

2) "Interpersonal Social Rhythm therapy" developed by Ellen Frank,
PhD (Univ. of Pittsburg) which teaches how to stabilize sleep and
wake cycles and how to recognize mood shifts by mood graphing. He
said that insomnia is an incredible path to mania.

3) "Cognitive Behavioral therapy" which helps a person reframe how
they think about things. Here Dr. Reiser recommended David Burn's
book Feeling Good. Also see his web site www.feelinggood.com. A good
self-help web site for bipolar individuals is www.dbsalliance.org/

An estimated 60-70% of bipolar individuals also misuse substances
such as alcohol and illegal drugs. Some will use stimulating activity
or drugs to stay manic or to activate themselves out of depression.
The task of getting them to recognize they have a problem sometimes
can be solved with "motivational interviewing" which elicits a plan
from the client rather than imposing a plan on the client. For
families dealing with medication non-compliance, the Kay Jamison
book, An Unquiet Mind was recommended.
Parents have a difficult role of trying to anticipate and prevent
harm and at the same time allow a child to experience some
consequences. A turning point does not occur for some unless they
faced with very serious consequences.

Dr Freeman said that medications require constant titration and for
the client it becomes an art. Drugs used to treat Bipolar Disorder
may include: 1) lithium, 2) mood stabilizers (anticonvulsants) such
as tegretol, lamictal and topamax 3) atypical antipsychotics such as
risperodone, Xyprexa, and clozapine, 4) anti-depressants, and 5)
sleep medications. The only alternative therapy shown to provide
possible benefits is Omega 3 fatty acids, 3 to 4 grams a day.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
14 April 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Announcements: Mr. Dimples goes on Spring Break!
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
Marin - 4/15/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822. Cost: $10 donation
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 4/16/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Adult AD/HD and Relationship Issues -- Guest Expert: Arthur Robin, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Contra Costa - 4/16/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 4/16/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Francisco - 4/21/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group. Topic: Workplace Issues -- Share skills and
strategies for success at home, in the workplace, in relationships,
etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Santa Clara - 4/23/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Discussion of and sharing
successful ADHD/LD strategies and coping skills with other like
ADDults
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Yolo - 4/24/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder. (Call first to confirm.)
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
Marin - 4/28/2003, Mon.  12:30am-2:30pm
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
San Francisco - 5/1/2003, Thu. 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Overcoming Dyslexia  -- Come hear Dr. Sally Shaywitz discuss her new
book, Overcoming Dyslexia, followed by questions and answers, and a
book signing. Recommended audience: Parents, educators, adult
dyslexics, psychologists. Free.
San Francisco Day School; 350 Masonic Ave., San Francisco - Contact:
Northern California Branch of IDA : Visit www.dyslexia-ncbida.org
============================
Alameda - 5/2/2003, Fri. 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Promoting Success for Children with Attentional Differences in the
Regular Classroom -- Designed for teachers. Send your child's
teacher, or come as a parent! With Glenn Gelfenbein, MA & Kathy
Allen, MA.
Home/Base; 2750 Todd St., Alameda - Contact: Abiliy Resource Center:
510-595-5548
============================
**** - 5/2/2003,  through 5/4/01
ADDA 2003 National Conference on Attention Deficit Disorders --
Keynote Presentations: includes the best national ADD authorities
including Hallowell, Ratey, Solden, Nadeau, Quinn, Novotni,
Goldstein, and many more.
No Directions Available, Portsmouth, VA - Contact: See Website:
www.add.org/conference.htm
============================
Contra Costa - 5/7/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 5/7/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 5/7/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Coping Skills -- Dr. Michael Hinckley will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Alameda - 5/10/2003, Sat. 9 am - 3 pm
Breaking the Code: Demystifying the Evaluation Process for Students
with Learning Disabilities -- David Berg, Nancy Cushen White, Jack
Davis and Glenn Gelfenbein guide parents, educators and allied
professionals to better understand and interpret a diagnostic
evaluation. $25
UCB Extension - International Center Auditorium; 2222 Harold Way,
Berkeley - Contact: UC Berkeley Extension: 510-642-4111
============================
Santa Clara - 5/13/2003, Tues.
ADHD: Meeting the Challenges, Embracing the Opportunities
Edward Hallowell, M.D.  -- In his Tools for Parents lecture, Dr.
Hallowell will offer an update on his 1994 bestseller, "Driven to
Distraction" and discuss what it takes to ensure that children, no
matter what obstacles they face, grow up to be happy, well adjusted
adults. $15 for advanced tickets.
Camino Ballroom; Rickey's, a Hyatt Hotel;  4219 El Camino Real, Palo
Alto - Contact: Bay Area Parents Magazine: Call 800-657-0288 or visit
www.toolsforparents.com
============================
Marin - 5/13/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Paperwork Control: Bills and Taxes - A panel of our "Paperwork
Assistants".  -- Learn ways to pay bills on time and file paperwork
logically for next year's taxes. Meet paperwork assistants who can
help. Bring your tips to share.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 5/14/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Online - 5/15/2003, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
ADD and Addiction -- Guest Expert: Wendy Richardson, M.A., M.F.C.C., C.A.S.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
San Francisco - 5/17/2003, Sat. 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Parent Education Network Conference - "Helping LD Kids at Home and
School" -- For Parents and Educators: featuring Tucker Geerds, (a
leading expert on Learning Differences), a panel of LD kids and a
Disabilities Workshop.
TBA - Bay Area,  - Contact: Dewey Rosetti: E-mail drosetti@...
============================


======== Announcements ==========

"CHADD Dimples" is a pen name. Don't tell anyone, but the name came
from the 2000 elections in Florida, when there was some difficulty
counting the "dimples" on ballot "chads." Remember?

Anyway, if you have any difficulty with the cold, hard truth about
that cute little fellow, CHADD Dimples, just imagine that he is on
spring vacation in Fort Lauderdale this week. And when he gets back,
please don't tip him off that I told you, OK?

By the way, there is a picture of him on our website at
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter/editor.htm

- Lew Mills, Editor in Mr. Dimples' absenceŠ

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.


--

CHADD Dimples
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:CHADD_Dimples@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
31 March 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Summer Programs
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Contra Costa - 4/2/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 4/2/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Social Skills, Relationships and Getting Along at Work with AD/HD --
Program subject to change...
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Mateo - 4/5/2003, Sat. 9 am - Noon; Registration at 8 am
Public Talk on Behavior - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd.  -- Register online.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit
www.SchwabLearning.org/SchwabLearning.asp?id=1306
============================
Marin - 4/8/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Referenced-EEG, a New Approach - Mark Schiller, MD, Assistant
Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCSF.  -- Learn about
Referenced-EEG, a test which measures brain wave abnormalities and
suggests the medications that would be most helpful. It is 80%
clinically effective and used for ages 6-90. Results are not related
to a DSM diagnosis.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 4/9/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 4/9/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Sacramento - 4/12/2003, Sat. 7:00 a.m. through morning
Annual "Walk for Hope" -- UC Davis MIND Institute
Sacramento - Contact: Kevin Duggan: 888-324-0464; www.mindinstitute.org
============================
Marin - 4/15/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822. Cost: $10 donation
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 4/16/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Adult AD/HD and Relationship Issues -- Guest Expert: Arthur Robin, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Contra Costa - 4/16/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 4/16/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Santa Clara - 4/23/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Discussion of and sharing
successful ADHD/LD strategies and coping skills with other like
ADDults
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Yolo - 4/24/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder. (Call first to confirm.)
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis
Contact: Yolo County CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
Marin - 4/28/2003, Mon.  9:30-11:30am
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
**** - 5/2/2003,  through 5/4/01
ADDA 2003 National Conference on Attention Deficit Disorders --
Keynote Presentations: includes the best national ADD authorities
including Hallowell, Ratey, Solden, Nadeau, Quinn, Novotni,
Goldstein, and many more.
No Directions Available, Portsmouth, VA
See Website: www.add.org/conference.htm
============================
Contra Costa - 5/7/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 5/7/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 5/7/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Coping Skills -- Dr. Michael Hinckley will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Alameda - 5/10/2003, Sat. 9 am - 3 pm
Breaking the Code: Demystifying the Evaluation Process for Students
with Learning Disabilities -- David Berg, Nancy Cushen White, Jack
Davis and Glenn Gelfenbein guide parents, educators and allied
professionals to better understand and interpret a diagnostic
evaluation. $25
UCB Extension - International Center Auditorium; 2222 Harold Way,
Berkeley - Contact: UC Berkeley Extension: 510-642-4111
============================
Santa Clara - 5/13/2003, Tues.
ADHD: Meeting the Challenges, Embracing the Opportunities
Edward Hallowell, M.D.  -- In his Tools for Parents lecture, Dr.
Hallowell will offer an update on his 1994 bestseller, "Driven to
Distraction" and discuss what it takes to ensure that children, no
matter what obstacles they face, grow up to be happy, well adjusted
adults. $15 for advanced tickets.
Camino Ballroom; Rickey's, a Hyatt Hotel;  4219 El Camino Real, Palo
Alto - Contact: Bay Area Parents Magazine: Call 800-657-0288 or visit
www.toolsforparents.com
============================
Marin - 5/13/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Paperwork Control: Bills and Taxes - A panel of our "Paperwork
Assistants".  -- Learn ways to pay bills on time and file paperwork
logically for next years taxes. Meet paperwork assistants who can
help. Bring your tips to share.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 5/14/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Online - 5/15/2003, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
ADD and Addiction -- Guest Expert: Wendy Richardson, M.A., M.F.C.C., C.A.S.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
San Francisco - 5/17/2003, Sat. 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Parent Education Network Conference - Helping LD Kids at Home and
School -- For Parents and Educators: featuring Tucker Geerds, (a
leading expert on Learning Differences), a panel of LD kids and a
Disabilities Workshop.
TBA - Bay Area,  - Contact: Dewey Rosetti: E-mail: drosetti@...
============================

===== Feature Article ======

Summer Programs

CHADD has a quick webpage on summer camps and programs:

http://www.chaddnorcal.org/camps.htm

There are other links there to more information. But this week we
really want to ask for your ideas. What are you going to do with your
child this summer, to enrich, entertain, or just hope they don't
cause too much trouble? Tell us and we will compile your comments for
everyone.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
17 March 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Children's Fears of War and Terrorism: How Parents Can Help
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

San Francisco - 3/17/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 3/18/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 3/19/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Making Multimodal Treatment a Reality -- Guest Expert: William Pelham, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Contra Costa - 3/19/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 3/19/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 3/20/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
Santa Clara - 3/26/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Don't Let Your Schooling Get In The Way of Your Education - Higher
Learning for ADHD/LD Adults -- Lew Mills, PhD, MFT is a Bay Area
psychotherapist who works with Adults with ADHD. Trying to write a
dissertation was his own wake-up call to ADHD and LDs in higher
education. He concludes that it is possible, and probably worth
attempting, but that you need to learn how to make school fit your
needs. He will talk about the official and unofficial strategies to
get through school and actually learn something too!
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org/
============================
San Francisco - 3/27/2003, Thu. 7:00 - 8:30 pm (allow time to park)
Summer Fair for Children with Learning Style Differences -- Over 20
program representatives and tutors talking about a wide range of
summer resources. Open to all families.
Susan Andrews Theater - Presidio Hill School; 3839 Washington St.,
San Francisco - Contact: Presidio Hill Parent Group on LD:
415-751-9318
============================
San Francisco - 3/29/2003, Sat. 9:00 am - Noon
Support for Families of Children with Disabilities' Annual
Information & Resource Fair -- Workshops * Exhibitors * Presentations
John O'Connell High School, San Francisco - Contact: See Website:
415.469.4518 for more information or visit www.supportforfamilies.org
============================
Marin - 3/31/2003, Mon.  9:30-11:30am
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Contra Costa - 4/2/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 4/2/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Social Skills, Relationships and Getting Along at Work with AD/HD -- TBA
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Mateo - 4/5/2003, Sat. 9 am - Noon; Registration at 8 am
Public Talk on Behavior - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd.  -- Register online by 3/26.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit www.SchwabLearning.org
============================
Marin - 4/8/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Referenced-EEG, a New Approach - Mark Schiller, MD, Assistant
Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCSF.  -- Learn about
Referenced-EEG, a test which measures brain wave abnormalities and
suggests the medications that would be most helpful. It is 80%
clinically effective and used for ages 6-90. Results are not related
to a DSM diagnosis.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 4/9/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 4/9/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Sacramento - 4/12/2003, Sat. 7:00 a.m. through morning
Annual "Walk for Hope" -- UC Davis MIND Institute
Sacramento - Contact: Kevin Duggan: 888-324-0464;  www.mindinstitute.org
============================
Marin - 4/15/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Got Clutter?  A drop-in peer-support group for organizing.  -- SueZee
Poinsett; Professional coach and organizer, Member of Na. Assoc.
Professional Organizers. 415-492-8822. Cost: $10 donation
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 4/16/2003, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Adult AD/HD and Relationship Issues -- Guest Expert: Arthur Robin, Ph.D.
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Contra Costa - 4/16/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 4/16/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================

===== Feature Article ======

Children's Fears of War and Terrorism:
How Parents Can Help
by Don R. MacMannis, Ph.D.

(This is reproduced from www.tfkteachers.com/advice . You may be
concerned about how to talk to your children about war and terrorism.
Please consider these tips from Don MacMannis, a child psychologist.
You can also visit www.tfkteachers.com/advice. )

These are uncertain, turbulent times, colored as they are by fears
about war and terrorism. As a result, children as well as adults are
experiencing higher levels of stress. When a flu bug is going around,
conscientious parents make sure their child is getting plenty of
sleep, vitamins and a healthy diet to build their immune system. How
can we, in a similar fashion, build up our children's capacity to
deal with current stresses?

Although there is no magic pill, there is a healthy diet of social
and emotional skills that you can provide children. Increasing these
skills is the most effective way to help children deal with the
current threat, as well as learn valuable lessons that last a
lifetime. It is normal for children to feel afraid, yet there are
things we can do to help our kids function optimally in these trying
times. Here are some suggestions:

1. Ask children what they have heard from peers, schools and the news
and discuss their concerns. But don't push the issue. It's best not
to fill children with fears they don't have, but also to realize that
their concerns won't go away if you ignore them. If children are
worried, reassure them by saying: "I can see you are feeling really
scared-this is a hard time for us. I know we'll feel better when it's
over."  Avoid telling children, "Everything will be okay," because if
something does happen, you'll lose their trust.

2. Recognize children's signs of stress. Kids reveal their stress in
individual ways. Some act out, some are quiet and some become immune
and numb. Watch for signs of sadness, aggression toward others, new
fears that may seem unrelated to the war and difficulties with making
"bad" thoughts go away. Many children will start acting younger than
their age.

3. Help children separate imagined from realistic fears.
Entertainment and real events can blend together for children. For
example, many kids saw the Twin Towers fall on TV and insisted it was
a movie. Other kids saw the image repeated on the news and thought
the event was happening over and over again. Children need to know
that very few people are terrorists and that the war will be fought
far away.

4. Limit children's exposure to adult media. Children need to know
that their immediate social environment-their family, friends and
school-is safe. The news and violent programming can be too
upsetting. Watch the news after children go to bed. If children
insist on watching the news, watch with them so that you can gauge
their reaction and talk about it.

5. Deal with your own stresses and emotions. When kids sense your
feelings and stress, they can become overwhelmed and unsettled.
Provide patience, safety, support and consistency to help children
feel secure. Share your own fears-but with restraint.

6. Use this time to teach life-long social and emotional skills.
Programs are available to provide kids with songs and activities to
learn positive thinking, hopefulness and prevent obsessive thoughts
or feelings from overwhelming them. It's an ideal time to learn about
cooperation and consideration, and to celebrate differences rather
than stereotype and blame.

7. Provide constructive outlets. Encourage kids to get involved by
sending  letters or drawings to military families or public-safety
workers.

8. Maintain rituals of connection and stick to normal routines, rules
and expectations. The only places to soften might be allowing
siblings to share rooms, or extending the bedtime "going to sleep"
ritual.

9. Don't let war play become aggressive. Limit exposure to violent
video games and movies.

10. Notify your school if a family member is leaving for the war.

11. Find support for yourself from local groups and organizations,
friends and, if needed, professional counselors and psychologists.

Don R. MacMannis, Ph.D., is a child psychologist specializing in the
treatment of children and families. He has been a consultant to
teachers and schools for the past 30 years. He is also currently
music director and one of three songwriters for the hit animation
series, Jay Jay the Jet Plane, featured on PBS. His highly acclaimed
book/CD, A Pocket of Tunes: Songs and Activities for Social and
Emotional Learning, will soon be featured in the Time/Life Primary
Teacher's Book Club.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
3 March 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Announcements: Women's Reading/Support Group Forming in San Francisco
Feature Article: The Four S's: A Comprehensive Program for ADD Coaching
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
San Francisco - 3/1/2003, Sat. 9:00a.m.-12:30p.m
Eileen Marzola - Becoming a Strategic Reader: Linking Assessment to
Reading Comprehension Instruction -- Sponsored by the International
Dyslexia Association.
UCSF Conference Center, Laurel Heights, San Francisco - Contact:
International Dyslexia Association: 650-328-7667 or visit
www.dyslexia-ncbida.org
============================
Contra Costa - 3/5/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 3/5/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 3/5/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
ADD 101 -- Dr. Stubblefield of the Amen Clinic will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 3/11/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Procrastination. Deborah Lancaster, ADDult. -- Learn practical,
useful solutions and techniques to overcome our natural tendencies to
procrastinate and disorganize.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 3/12/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 3/17/2003, Mon. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 3/18/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 3/19/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 3/19/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 3/20/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
Santa Clara - 3/26/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Don't Let Your Schooling Get In The Way of Your Education - Higher
Learning for ADHD/LD Adults -- Lew Mills, PhD, MFT is a Bay Area
psychotherapist who works with Adults with ADHD. Trying to write a
dissertation was his own wake-up call to ADHD and LDs in higher
education. He concludes that it is possible, and probably worth
attempting, but that you need to learn how to make school fit your
needs. He will talk about the official and unofficial strategies to
get through school and actually learn something too!
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
San Francisco - 3/29/2003, Sat. 9:00 am - Noon
Support for Families of Children with Disabilities' Annual
Information & Resource Fair -- Workshops * Exhibitors * Presentations
John O'Connell High School, San Francisco - Contact: See Website:
415.469.4518 for more information or visit www.supportforfamilies.org
============================
Marin - 3/31/2003, Mon. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Contra Costa - 4/2/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 4/2/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Social Skills, Relationships and Getting Along at Work with AD/HD --
Dr. Lew Mills will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================

======== Announcements ==========

Women's Reading/Support Group Forming in San Francisco

(There are still openings)

Using Sari Solden's first book, "Women with Attention Deficit
Disorder" and excerpts from other reading material as a basis for
discussion and self-exploration, our goal is to learn how to respect
our limits and build on our strengths. We will meet the 2nd and 4th
Tuesdays of the month for 8-10 sessions with a minimum of 6 and
maximum of 9 participants. A small fee (to $5) for room rental may be
charged. Please contact Kali Grosberg for more information.
415-673-6416 or kali.g@...."

===== Feature Article ======

The Four S's: A Comprehensive Program for Coaching People With ADD
By Sue Coleman, MCC, and Susan Sussman, M.Ed.

A comprehensive approach towards coaching people with ADD can be
summarized in four words: structure, support, skills and strategies.
Each is a focal point at various times in the coaching relationship;
and sometimes all are provided or worked on simultaneously.
Structure, support, skills and strategies are the building blocks
used in providing an ADD client with a complete coaching experience.

STRUCTURE:

Structure is a framework within which the ADD client can live his
life. It provides the means by which an ADD client can be proactive
(not reactive) in the face of chaos, paradox and change.
_Structure consists of the following components:
1. Clearly defined vision, goals, and values. These concepts are
central to a life with direction, purpose and fulfillment. To
illustrate this, in his book First Things First, Stephen Covey
defines them as the "compass for our lives." Goals, vision, and
values are clarified in the early phases of the coaching relationship
and inform the client's basic and true sense of identity, purpose,
and fulfillment.

2. Systems for managing daily life. Systems are developed for things
like decluttering on a regular basis, handling mail and bills, doing
the grocery shopping, and handling financial affairs.

3. The essential structure of a time management system. A time
management system is created that works for the client (it could be a
Franklin Planner or Daytimer, or something totally personal and
original). The coach helps the client identify priorities, break them
into manageable steps, and schedule them into a calendar.

4. Daily or weekly appointments that are scheduled, reliable and
consistent. An integral part of consistency is the accountability the
coach requires from the client for designated priorities.

5. A single daily action (SDA) taken every day, no matter what. The
SDA, identified in the initial coaching session, gives the client a
sense of accomplishment and forward momentum and raises self-esteem.

6. Daily habits which are small constructive actions done on a daily
or routine basis. These daily habits form the foundation upon which
major change takes place. Habits can be developed in a client's
professional and/or personal life.


SUPPORT:

For ADD'ers who have spent their lives feeling blamed, criticized,
and misunderstood, support is essential. In a support role a coach
can serve a number of functions. First, clients need an opportunity
to tell their story. Here the coach serves the role of witness and
empathizer, someone who understands and has empathy for the client's
journey - his past, current struggles and victories, and his future
hopes and dreams.

Coaches also offer support in other ways as the coaching relationship
unfolds: Feedback and support involve telling the client what you see
them doing. For example, "It seems to me you are really efforting in
your life right now. How can you make it easier for yourself?"

The coach can support the client and acknowledge their wins. Clients
can start the check-in call with a list of wins accomplished since
the last call. Coaches need to acknowledge clients' wins and
encourage clients to acknowledge themselves. During this process the
coach must be sure that the acknowledgement "lands," i.e., that the
client really gets the message.

Coaches can also offer support by holding their client's vision -
especially when the client forgets. Individuals with ADD can forget
their vision when the going gets tough. At these times coaches can
remind clients of their vision and help them get back on a
forward-moving track.

Coaches can also champion their clients. This is the skill of
standing for the client when they doubt or question their abilities.
Championing occurs when the coach really knows the client. The coach
can act as the client's memory, reminding them of their basic values,
the path they have chosen, and their inventory of strengths.

Celebrating is another support-based coaching skill. The coach uses
this skill to deepen the client's appreciation of their failures and
successes. Celebration serves to deepen the client's experiences and
appreciation of their lives at any given moment.

Clearing: When a client is preoccupied with a situation or mental
state which gets in the way of resourcefulness or being proactive,
the coach assists by being an active listener while the client vents
or complains, helping the client clear the situation out of the way.

Creating trust: The coaching relationship rests on a foundation of
safety and trust. To create trust, the coach discusses both
confidentiality and safety. The coach offers the client the
opportunity to verbalize the various ways the coach can be most
helpful, and is specific about what the client can count on from him.

Finally in the area of support, the ADD coach can track progress and
provide specific information and guidance each step along the way.

SKILLS:

When individuals with ADD work on skill building, their worlds become
more consistent and predictable.

The first step in the process of skill building occurs when the coach
helps the client identify their strengths and weaknesses. Coaches
help clients with the process of skill building and support clients
in working from their strengths. Coaches can help ADD clients build
the following skills:

Time management: Most ADD clients have difficulty managing time.
There are many helpful tools available. Often ADD clients need
information about these tools and help putting them in place and
using them.

Goal setting: Includes educating clients about the characteristics of
a goal (establishing the who, what, when, where, and why) and
teaching clients how to break goals into manageable steps.

Setting boundaries: Includes recognizing that one's time has limits
and being able to say "no" when appropriate. Clients can be given a
written description of healthy boundaries that can be referred to
throughout the coaching relationship.

Dealing with transitions: Consists of teaching the client about the
nature of transition. Clients can be referred to the book
_Transitions_ by William Bridges when dealing with big life
transitions. (One such transition is the process of ADD diagnosis and
learning to understand and manage it.) Transition skill building also
includes developing strategies to move smoothly from task to task.

Dealing with the inner critic: The ADD client often has a strong
inner critic who gives negative feedback on an ongoing basis. Helping
the client track the voice, identify its messages, and learn to
detach from it is an important part of skill building.

Other areas in which ADD coaches work with clients include developing
listening skills, social skills, and organizational skills.

STRATEGIES:

Strategies are creative tools coaches use to help clients navigate
their daily lives efficiently and achieve their goals. Lists of
strategies can be as extensive as the creativity, skill and knowledge
of the individual coach allow.

1. Corralling energy: The coach can help the client identify
high-energy times for engaging in tasks requiring concentration and
stamina.

2. Pattern learning: This strategy enables clients to remember to do
tasks because they are "piggybacked" on top of other tasks. For
example, "When I finish brushing my teeth I will take my medication."

3. Setting realistic start and stop times for each action: A project
with a defined ending is much less daunting than one that seems
endless. An effective strategy is to chunk down tasks into 15 minutes
or 30-minute segments. Teach clients to set a timer s so that when
the time is up, they can give themselves permission to quit.

4. Identifying blocks and resistances before the beginning of a
project as well as each step of the way. With this approach,
obstacles can be defused before they sabotage the job. Also clients
become familiar with their resistance patterns and can develop
strategies for avoiding them in the future.

5. Establishing markers to identify the completion of each step of a
project: For example: "When I'm finished labeling my file folders,
I'm done with the second step of reorganizing my office."

6. Setting up rewards: "If I declutter my office on Saturday, I can
treat myself to dinner at my favorite restaurant or buy myself the
computer game I've been dreaming about."

Although there is no one "right" way to coach clients with ADD,
coaching that carefully examines how structure, support, skills and
strategies can benefit each unique client will help immeasurably in
creating a relationship between coach and client that fosters growth,
learning, and change over time.

(Sue Coleman can be reached at (510) 339-6197 or scoleman@...)

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
17 February 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter, designed to keep you up to date with CHADD of Northern
California's activities and updates in the field.

===== In This Issue =====

Calendar of Events
Announcements: Women's Reading/Support Group forming in S.F.
Feature Article: Schools Fail Kids With Learning Disabilities
Please Tell Us

======== Calendar of Events ==========

San Francisco - 2/17/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 2/18/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 2/19/2003, Wed. 7 pm
Mel Levine is giving a free talk on his new book, "The Myth of
Laziness"  -- Mel Levine is considered one of the top special
education authorities.  This is a great opportunity to increase your
knowledge!
Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto - Contact: TBD:
============================
Contra Costa - 2/19/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 2/19/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Francisco - 2/20/2003, Thu. 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
How Will California's Budget Crisis Impact Your Child with Special
Needs -- Learn more about proposed cuts and what you can do about
them. From "Open Gate Family Resource Center." RSVP required, one
week in advance.
John O'Connell High School, San Francisco - Contact: See Website:
415.469.4518 for more information or visit www.supportforfamilies.org
============================
Marin - 2/24/2003, Mon.  9:30-11:30am
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Sonoma - 2/26/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and Support.  -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses,
teenagers and significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Medical Office Building East, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma
Warmline: More information and directions: 707-765-4863
============================
Santa Clara - 2/26/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Discussion of and sharing
successful ADHD/LD strategies and coping skills with other like
ADDults
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
San Francisco - 3/1/2003, Sat. 9:00a.m.-12:30p.m
Eileen Marzola - Becoming a Strategic Reader: Linking Assessment to
Reading Comprehension Instruction -- Sponsored by the International
Dyslexia Association.  Details forthcoming
UCSF Conference Center, Laurel Heights, San Francisco - Contact:
International Dyslexia Association: 650-328-7667 or visit
www.dyslexia-ncbida.org
============================
Contra Costa - 3/5/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 3/5/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 3/5/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
ADD 101 -- Dr. Stubblefield of the Amen Clinic will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 3/11/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Procrastination. Deborah Lancaster, ADDult.  -- Learn practical,
useful solutions and techniques to overcome our natural tendencies to
procrastinate and disorganize.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 3/12/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 3/17/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 3/18/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 3/19/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 3/19/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 3/20/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================

======== Announcements ==========

Women's Reading/Support Group Forming in San Francisco

Using Sari Solden's first book, "Women with Attention Deficit
Disorder" and excerpts from other reading material as a basis for
discussion and self-exploration, our goal is to learn how to respect
our limits and build on our strengths. We will meet the 2nd and 4th
Tuesdays of the month for 8-10 sessions with a minimum of 6 and
maximum of 9 participants. A small fee (to $5) for room rental may be
charged. Please contact Kali Grosberg for more information.
415-673-6416 or kali.g@...."

===== Feature Article ======

Parents and Teachers Say Nation's Schools Fail Kids With Learning Disabilities

National Center for Learning Disabilities launches call to action to
Keep Kids Learning

New York, NY, January 15, 2003 - An overwhelming majority of parents
and teachers say the nation's schools take too long to identify
students with learning disabilities, according to a benchmark study
released today by the National Center for Learning Disabilities
(NCLD). The study provides important insights given the Congressional
debate set to take place early this year about education legislation
known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The
poll findings have spawned an online initiative called
KeepKidsLearning (www.keepkidslearning.org), to empower parents and
teachers to express their opinions about the critical policy changes.

Conducted by Peter D. Hart Research Associates/American Viewpoint,
the survey strongly indicates that both parents and teachers favor
replacing the current model for classifying students with learning
disabilities with an alternative model that focuses on early
identification and intervention. In fact, nearly half of parents in
the country have children who are struggling learners.

The Hart Research/American Viewpoint Poll-conducted among 603 parents
of children in Kindergarten through 12th grade and 403 teachers of
grades K-6-highlights the country's growing concerns about the
current education system for identifying and serving students who
struggle to learn and the desire to adopt a new one. Highlights of
the poll include:
44 percent of parents have a struggling learner in the household
Parents (82%) and teachers (90%) believe that adoption of the
alternative system would have a positive effect on the progress of
students with learning disabilities

78 percent of parents favor adopting an alternative education system
that is focused on early identification and intervention

85 percent of teachers who see the effects of the current system in
their classrooms on a daily basis prefer a newer model

65 percent of teachers believe that many of their colleagues could
use more training to help them identify students with learning
disabilities

66 percent of parents and 82 percent of teachers say that adopting an
alternative system for identifying children with learning
disabilities would have a positive impact on the classroom overall

"As this landmark poll indicates, the majority of parents and
teachers are tired of watching struggling learners suffer alone,"
said Geoffrey Garin, president of the Peter D. Hart Research
Associates. "They are heavily in favor of a new educational system
that allows these children to get the help they need right from the
onset of academic troubles."

The survey findings highlight the increasing debate on the
reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(IDEA). Introduced 27 years ago, IDEA revolutionized the standards of
special education. Today, however, its out-of-date approaches force
struggling learners to fail for one year or more before providing the
crucial instruction and support that can enable them to succeed.
Regrettably, almost three times more students with learning
disabilities are receiving special education services at ages 9-11
than at ages 6-8, despite the knowledge that to be most effective,
interventions must be delivered by the end of second grade.

"Parents and teachers know that the earlier children are identified,
the more likely they are to succeed in the future," stated James H.
Wendorf, executive director of NCLD. He added, "When you consider
that a below-average reader loses one million words of active
vocabulary each year, the benefit of early identification is
undeniable."

Compared with a system that waits a year or more, the new model would
allow children to be identified as early as kindergarten. As soon as
it becomes evident that a child is struggling, teams of classroom
teachers and special educators would provide special instruction and
monitor progress almost immediately after the initial problem has
been spotted. Those students continuing to show low levels of
progress after three months would then be eligible for special
education services.

In conjunction with NCLD, co-sponsoring organizations of the Keep
Kids Learning online campaign are calling for universal screening for
early literacy skills, problem-solving approaches for earlier
identification and intervention, and enhancing the professional
development of our teachers who work with struggling students
everyday. The Learning Disabilities Roundtable works to find
consensus on LD issues that will influence current federal policy.

"Since IDEA comes up for reauthorization once every five years, now
is the time to communicate and work with Congress to ensure that all
children benefit from the best research available," stated Wendorf.
He added, "As the nation begins making resolutions for the new year,
we must ensure that Congress embraces critical changes to IDEA now
because no child has five years to waste."

To help parents, teachers and community members weigh in on IDEA,
NCLD has created a web site called KeepKidsLearning
(www.keepkidslearning.org). At the web site, visitors can easily send
their opinions and concerns about the legislation to their Senator or
Representative.

*The statistical margin of sampling error is ± 4.0% among the parents
and ±5.0% among the teachers.


About National Center for Learning Disabilities
The mission of NCLD (www.LD.org) is to increase opportunities for all
individuals with learning disabilities (LD) to achieve their
potential, and to provide solutions to help them participate fully in
society. NCLD accomplishes its mission by promoting public awareness
and understanding of learning disabilities, conducting educational
programs and services that advance research-based knowledge, and
providing national leadership in shaping public policy.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
3 February 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: The Gifts of ADHD
This Week - Announcements
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Contra Costa - 2/5/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 2/5/2003, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 2/5/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Central Auditory Processing Disorder versus AD/HD. -- Judith Paton,
pediatric and adult audiologist, will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 2/11/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Ask the Doctor - Dr. Michael Freeman, MD, psychiatrist. -- Ask
questions about current treatments. Hear about the virtues of ADHD
and Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Freeman is a psychiatrist in Kentfield who
specializes in mood and anxiety disorders.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 2/12/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 2/17/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 2/18/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 2/19/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 2/19/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Francisco - 2/20/2003, Thu. 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
How Will California's Budget Crisis Impact Your Child with Special
Needs -- Learn more about proposed cuts and what you can do about
them. From "Open Gate Family Resource Center." RSVP required, one
week in advance.
John O'Connell High School, San Francisco - Contact: See Website:
415.469.4518 for more information or visit www.supportforfamilies.org
============================
Marin - 2/24/2003, Mon.  9:30-11:30am
Parent Resource Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Santa Clara - 2/26/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Discussion of and sharing
successful ADHD/LD strategies and coping skills with other like
ADDults
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org/
============================
San Francisco - 3/1/2003, Sat. 9:00a.m.-12:30p.m
Eileen Marzola - Becoming a Strategic Reader: Linking Assessment to
Reading Comprehension Instruction -- Sponsored by the International
Dyslexia Association.  Details forthcoming
UCSF Conference Center, Laurel Heights, San Francisco - Contact:
International Dyslexia Association: 650-328-7667 or visit
www.dyslexia-ncbida.org
============================
Contra Costa - 3/5/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 3/5/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
ADD 101 -- Dr. Stubblefield of the Amen Clinic will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================

===== Feature Article ======

The Gifts of ADHD

(The following article has been published with kind permission from
Lew Mills, PhD, MFT, a Bay Area psychotherapist working with
Attention Deficit in Adults.)

Lew Mills, PhD, MFT

Perhaps the easiest way to get a debate started amongst a group of
people with ADHD is to ask whether ADHD is a "disorder" or a
"difference." Is it a curse or a gift? It's everyone's favorite
topic, and everyone has an opinion. Actually, I have two opinions.
Like many big questions, the answer lies somewhere not just in the
middle but at both ends.

On the positive side, if treated, ADHD doesn't usually have to ruin
your life. What's more, there are lots of skills, abilities and
characteristics that routinely come with ADHD, and which most people
find appealing. This is why in debates about treating children, we
always hear warnings about "taking the spark" out of some "Huck Finn"
type of child. Never mind that Huck is a fictional character, and
that if you had to raise him as your own, you would be a rather
frustrated parent. Still Huck has a charming perspective on the
world, a winning way with people and an infectious enthusiasm for
life. These qualities often do translate over into the real life
people with ADHD.

But at the same time, ADHD is defined by symptoms. In the book of
diagnoses, a person doesn't even qualify as having ADHD without
"significant impairment." If it doesn't get in your way, it's not
ADHD. This is literally "by definition." There also doesn't seem to
be a "fully treated" ADHD yet. Treatments are clearly not
"normalizing." We can just reduce symptoms. Usually a person comes on
the diagnosis because things have been going significantly wrong. The
person who is being diagnosed is not naive about what they are up
against. Hopeful "gift" sermons might meet with skepticism.

I suspect that virtually always, the person with ADHD has experienced
significant shame in their life, about things that they were not able
to do, and which came easily to others. One part of the difficulty is
that the disorder is largely "hidden." ADHD adults say things like,
"If I were in a wheelchair, people would understand how hard I have
to try, but nobody gets it with ADHD." Furthermore, the debilitating
aspects of ADHD are hidden from the person that has it also. As
children, we cannot figure out on our own that we are disabled by
ADHD. Instead, We erroneously attribute our own behavior to "bad
character", lack of motivation, or worse.

Because of this, a central experience of ADHD is humiliation and
shame. That sounds harsh, but it is crueler to ignore that, to date,
this experience is nearly inevitable. The depth to which our culture
condemns the incapacities ADHD brings remains largely unfathomed.

So why do I insist that ADHD is still "a gift" as well. It could be
sentimental compensation for enduring what is clearly a big problem.
But I have two other much better reasons.

It does bring gifts. I have frequently heard ADHD people say that
they know they see something in the world that nearly everyone else
is missing. I don't think this is just a cheap self-aggrandizement,
to make up for their pain. I think it is often true. There are two
more bits of good news here. I don't think that treating the ADHD
makes these go away. And second, these really are the gifts that we
find idealized in children like Huck Finn, or maybe like Harry
Potter. They are hard to explain to the "muggles" who don't live in
this wizard's world, but they are intuited and revered there, even as
the wizards of ADHD suffer them like a secret scar.

My second reason for seeing ADHD as a gift may be a harder sell. I
once quipped, "ADHD is God's way of teaching you humility." I think I
came up with this after having to apologize for and explain something
that I did which was indeed, inexplicable. I slowly realized that
there is some benefit in knowing that you can't control all the
aspects of your life. This is despite the fact that you would like to
and that society demands it of you. You have limits. You make
mistakes.

In world on the edge of war, where the concept of hubris is
considered quaint, a touch of humility may be a great gift indeed.
But the trick, of course, is how to transform experiences of
humiliation into the wisdom of humility. Often enough, they instead
lead to greater defensiveness, arrogance and the hubris we would like
to avoid. I think that the secret is to learn to accept our
limitations, even at the moments when everyone else continues to
condemn them. With acceptance of our limitations comes a new hope for
our realistically appraised capacities.

Nothing takes a person further from him or herself than trying to
perfect the challenged parts of themselves that they don't
understand. And nothing brings a person home as much as discovering
their true strengths. ADHD has the wickedly strange ability to force
the understanding of our challenges. With luck, we then turn to
studying our strengths.

As we find our limitations, I think we are also more inclined to find
the interdependencies we have with other people. ADHD will enforce
asking for help. My personal goal is to say "thank you" at least as
many times to those who help me out as I am obligated to say "I'm
sorry" to those whom I disappoint. Once a person has to acknowledge
that they cannot master everything by themselves, the door is open to
seeing how universally we need to consider each other's strengths and
challenges. In that, I believe, is a truer dignity than we might have
gained otherwise.

Gift or curse? Sometimes a gift feels like a curse. Sometimes a curse
is a gift in hiding.

======== This Week ==========

The Silicon Valley warmline phone was out for a while, but it's back:
650-949-ß5472.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
20 January 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Wraparound Services for Your ADHD Child
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
San Francisco - 1/20/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group - Topic: Time Management -- Share skills and
strategies for success at home, in the workplace, in relationships,
etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 1/21/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 1/22/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
New Directions in Brain Scan Imaging -- William C. Klindt, MD.,
Director of Silicon Valley Brain Imaging, Inc.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 1/22/2003, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
San Mateo - 1/25/2003, Sat. 9 am - Noon; Registration at 8 am
It's So Much Work Being Your Friend; Teaching Friendship Skills to
Children. - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd.  -- This workshop will outline
the development of childhood friendships and will offer specific
strategies designed to enhance the child's friendship skills.
Register online.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit www.SchwabLearning.org
============================
Contra Costa - 2/5/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 2/5/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Central Auditory Processing Disorder versus AD/HD. -- Judith Paton,
pediatric and adult audiologist, will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 2/11/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Ask the Doctor - Dr. Michael Freeman, MD, psychiatrist, specializing
in mood and anxiety disorders.  -- Discuss the virtues of ADHD and
Bipolar Disorder. Ask your questions about current treatment.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 2/12/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 2/17/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 2/18/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 2/19/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 2/19/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Santa Clara - 2/26/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Discussion of and sharing
successful ADHD/LD strategies and coping skills with other like
ADDults
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 2/26/2003, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================

===== Feature Article ======

WRAPAROUND SERVICES FOR YOUR ADHD CHILD: WHAT IS IT AND HOW CAN IT HELP?

(The following article was published in ADDvisor newsletter Number 10
May 15, 2002. We are publishing this article in our newsletter with
kind permission from Alan Graham and Bill Benninger of ADDvisor.)

The May 2002 edition of the Brown University Child and Adolescent
Behavior Letter includes an article about wraparound services for
kids. Wraparound services are designed to meet the total needs of
each individual client. It usually involves a planning process that
creates an individualized set of services and supports for a child
and the family.

The Brown letter cites a Burns and Goldman (1999) article that lists
the 10 essential elements of wraparound services.

1. Services must be community-based.

2. Services must be individualized, strength based and designed to
meet the needs of children to promote success, safety and permanence
in home, school and community.

3. The process must be culturally competent.

4. Families must be full and active participants in every aspect of
the process.

5. The approach must be team-drive, involving the child, family,
natural supports, agencies and the community services working
together to develop, implement and evaluate the individualized plan.

6. The teams must have adequate, flexible approaches and flexible funding.

7. Individualized plans must include formal and informal services.

8. An unconditional commitment to serve children and families is essential.

9. The process should be interagency, community-based and collaborative.

10. Outcomes must be determined and measured for the child/family,
the program and the system.

In McHenry County, I had the opportunity to participate in the
design, implementation and evaluation of a wraparound program for an
ADHD child. This program incorporated all of the above elements. The
local mental health board provided a case coordinator. The school
system, big brother program, respite care, myself and other community
based agencies participated.

What resulted was a comprehensive program for this child and
accounted for his daily activities with goals and objectives for
every aspect of his life. The parents even were able to access
respite care so they could go out together on a Saturday evening to
help strengthen the marriage.

The Brown article offers an example from Milwaukee which also
incorporates all ten elements. This is a model that holds promise and
could be helpful in managing the more difficult children.

CONTACT INFORMATION
_______________________
Alan R. Graham, Ph.D.
Bill Benninger, Ph.D.
ADDvisor.com
Voice: 1-866-ADDvisor
Fax: 847-824-2386
Email: Alan@...
Bill@...
Web: www.ADDvisor.com
(c) Copyright 2002 ADDvisor.com, Ltd. All rights reserved

The above material may be retransmitted or distributed to whomever
you wish as long as not a single word is changed, added or deleted,
including the contact information. However, you may not copy it to a
web site.

Republication of "The ADDvisor" in paper media is encouraged and
permitted by organizations and associations which serve parents of
ADHD children at the national, state and/or local level as long as
the issue is reprinted in its entirety without charge and includes
the contact information. With advance permission, we are happy to
edit an issue to fit your space requirements.

Republication is also encouraged under other circumstances, however,
the advance permission of ADDvisor.com, Ltd. must be obtained in the
event that changes in the text are desired or republication is to be
made by individuals or by organizations other than those mentioned
above.


===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
6 January 2003

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Review: View from the Cliff
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Sacramento - 1/7/2003, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Dealing with AD/HD at Home, Work, and at School -- Angela Paccini,
MFT, private practice in Roseville
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Alameda - 1/8/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Santa Clara - 1/8/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
ADD Through the Life Cycle -- Dr. Harry Verby of the Behavioral
Medical Clinic in San Mateo
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 1/14/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Learn down-to-earth skills to manage your anger. -- Peter Chinnici, LCSW
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 1/15/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 1/15/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 1/16/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
San Francisco - 1/20/2003, Mon. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group - Topic: Time Management -- Share skills and
strategies for success at home, in the workplace, in relationships,
etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 1/21/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 1/22/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
New Directions in Brain Scan Imaging -- William C. Klindt, MD.,
Director of Silicon Valley Brain Imaging, Inc.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org/
============================
Marin - 1/22/2003, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
San Francisco - 1/23/2003, Thu. 7-9pm
Educational Speaker TBA --
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: San Francisco Warmline:
415-442-1944
============================
San Mateo - 1/25/2003, Sat. 9 am - Noon; Registration at 8 am
It's So Much Work Being Your Friend; Teaching Friendship Skills to
Children. - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd. -- This workshop will outline
the development of childhood friendships and will offer specific
strategies designed to enhance the child's friendship skills.
Register online.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit www.SchwabLearning.org/
============================
Contra Costa - 2/5/2003, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: TBA --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 2/5/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Central Auditory Processing Disorder versus AD/HD. -- Judith Paton,
pediatric and adult audiologist, will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
===== Feature Article ======

Book Review:
View from the Cliff - A Course in Achieving Daily Focus
by Lynn Weiss, PhD

Reviewed by Lew Mills, PhD, MFT (http://www.millsconsulting.com)

Some books are just too hard to tackle when you are an adult with
ADHD, even if they are intended for an ADHD audience. After a couple
of excursions into multiple theories and a lengthy examination of the
research, we have checked out.

There are two styles of books that are more effective for ADHD
Adults. The more common style is to be very stimulating, with lots of
variety, pictures, cartoons, sidebars, cute stories and so on. This
can work well at engaging and keeping your attention. I personally
enjoy reading these. A fun example is "Time Management for
Unmanageable People."

The downside of this style is that it can spin you off into more
tangential thoughts and plans than you are ever going to be able to
follow through on. While it appeases your ADHD curiosity, it also
plays to all of its distractibility. You can have a lot of fun
reading it, but at the end, you are not sure what you are going to do
about what you learned.

The second style for Adult ADHD books is more rare and, I think, more
useful. This gives you a very simple clear-cut executable plan for
addressing problems and maximizing the assets of having ADHD. Weiss'
book falls clearly in this second category. On the surface, it may
seem relatively dull. But if you pick it up and read a page or two,
you find yourself instantly engaged in advice from someone who knows
just what you are struggling with. This kind of book is likely to end
up being useful over years to come.

The way the book works is to cover a very wide range of issues that
many ADHD adults grapple with, all in a simple standardized format.
Each dilemma you face is first phrased in an assessment question like
"Do you procrastinate starting projects?" or "Do you regularly burn
pots, lose contact lenses, or overflow the backyard pond because you
don't pay attention to what you are doing?" She then proceeds to
describe you succinctly in a few paragraphs. OK, now you know that
she knows you, (even if you don't have a backyard pond).

Here is where she takes you through what becomes a familiar process
to work on each problem. It really does feel like a well-structured
"course" in achieving focus. Each "lesson" is very concise and
tightly constructed, respecting the effort you are putting into
understanding it.

After describing just what you do, she explains "Why this happens."
This is the part that may be familiar from other ADHD books, and it
is very helpful to understand the "whys" of ADHD. But then she goes
to the part on "What not to do." Often this section includes the
injunction to not get down on yourself about just being the way that
you are. Hopefully you have already heard this before, but even so,
it bears repeating!

The next step is about what you can and should do. There are some
marvelously clever tricks here that I have not seen elsewhere. For
example, she describes a technique of "anchoring" yourself at the
point where you are about to drift off on a tangent, so that you have
a way to get back on track when your tangent is completed.

As you begin to tell yourself that this technique will never work for
you, you are surprised that the next section acknowledges "What makes
this hard to do." Her recommendations don't just leave you with the
feeling that if it doesn't work for you, you did it wrong. Instead
she tells you how you can work more successfully at the toughest
parts of the task.

Throughout the whole process, Weiss acknowledges the three parts of
yourself that you bring to your struggle with ADHD: the hurt you feel
at a world that rarely understood you, the ways you can get the world
to accommodate you now, and the "true you" that you will rediscover.
This perspective pulls the book far past being just a collection of
clever tricks, to where she really grasps how and why ADHD adults do
what they do, in a way that helps you make better choices.

So here is a book that you will be able to come back to over and
over, that will teach you very usable strategies, and that
acknowledges that you are already trying a lot harder than it may
look to others. This one is definitely worth owning.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
23 December 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Gifted and AD/HD (longer article)
Volunteer Opportunity - Plan Latino Community Forums, May '03
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Sacramento - 1/7/2003, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Dealing with AD/HD at Home, Work, and at School -- Angela Paccini,
MFT, private practice in Roseville
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Alameda - 1/8/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Santa Clara - 1/8/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
ADD Through the Life Cycle -- Dr. Harry Verby of the Behavioral
Medical Clinic in San Mateo
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 1/14/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Learn down-to-earth skills to manage your anger. -- Peter Chinnici, LCSW
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 1/15/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 1/16/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
San Francisco - 1/20/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 1/21/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 1/22/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
New Directions in Brain Scan Imaging -- William C. Klindt, MD.,
Director of Silicon Valley Brain Imaging, Inc.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit  www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 1/22/2003, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
San Francisco - 1/23/2003, Thu. 7-9pm
Educational Speaker TBA --
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: San Francisco Warmline:
415-442-1944
============================
San Mateo - 1/25/2003, Sat. 9 am - Noon; Registration at 8 am
It's So Much Work Being Your Friend; Teaching Friendship Skills to
Children. - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd.  -- This workshop will outline
the development of childhood friendships and will offer specific
strategies designed to enhance the child's friendship skills.
Register online.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit www.SchwabLearning.org
============================

===== Feature Article ======

Gifted and AD/HD
By Dana Olney-Bell, SchwabLearning.org


I'm twelve years old and for as long as I can remember, I've had
opposite sides to myself. I'm told that I'm "gifted"-- very smart and
creative. But I also have to work really, really hard at things that
seem much easier for other kids, like memorizing and paying attention.

Here's an example: In math and science and in art, I'm quicker at
figuring things out than other kids. Like when my teacher tells us a
new way to subtract fractions, it seems obvious to me and not to
other kids. But when I'm trying to listen to someone talking or
lecturing, my mind starts to wander.

Once when we were talking about plants in science, it made me think
about my garden and what I was going to plant next year. And that
made me think about a new kind of chili pepper that I'm going to try
to plant for my dad because he likes spicy things. And that made me
think about the hot dishes he used to eat when we lived in Singapore.

It feels sort of like branches on a tree, and pretty soon I don't
know what the discussion is about any more. Sometimes this is good
when I'm talking to someone because it helps me branch out on our
conversation. If I'm in class, it helps me bring up new ideas that no
one else has thought of. But it also hurts me in class because I
don't always fully get what the teacher is saying.

Sometimes I have complicated ideas that I can't explain to others.
That really frustrates me, and I get upset with the person for not
getting it! I guess you could say I cry pretty easily, and sometimes
I overreact and start crying. This really bugs my mom. Sometimes I
have the same sort of problem when I need to ask a question. I get
stuck on a question because I can't formulate it. And I have the same
problems when I'm trying to write down my ideas for a paper.

When I'm doing something that's hard for me, like writing, I drift
off easily and end up doing a quick job so I can do something else
that I'm better at. But then I don't get a very good grade on my
essay, and I feel bad. The problem is there are so many interesting
things to do in my house; things that I think are just as educational
as writing. I'd rather do chemistry and cooking experiments in the
kitchen, or try out new kinds of seeds or soil mixtures in my garden,
or watch the Discovery or History channel or Popular Mechanics for
Kids, or solve logic puzzles and games. I'd rather study bird
behavior (with my birds, of course!), work on my Web site with my
dad, read stuff I want to read, and engineer new contraptions with
string or wood or whatever else is lying around. I love my school but
I hate it that homework takes away time from doing these things.

That's what it's like to be gifted and AD/HD.

I've tried some medicine to help me with attention. I couldn't
believe there was such a thing when my mom told me about it. It's so
weird that they make a medicine for that! Ritalin helped me
concentrate and be more energetic about school. Adderall helps in a
different way because it makes me more optimistic, but when it wears
off I feel less cheerful and have shorter attention and drift more.
Sometimes I have trouble remembering to take it in the afternoon. One
thing about the Adderall is that it helps some, but it doesn't
completely solve the problem of attention. I still have to work at
paying attention, and sometimes I still drift off even with the
medicine.

Medicine doesn't help the problems I have memorizing and studying for
tests. My tutor suggested that I draw pictures when I'm memorizing
facts for my history test. For example, when we were studying the
Renaissance, I drew a picture of a harp for the rebirth of music, and
numbers for rediscovering science, and a cross for the rebirth of
culture. That helped me remember those things for an exam. But the
problem is that it takes too long to study like that, so I wasn't
able to study everything and I got a bad grade because there were
lots of parts that I didn't get to. Sometimes it makes me sad and it
makes me want to give up when I realize how much harder I have to
work at things that are not that hard for other kids.

Japanese has been easier for me to learn because when you write in
Japan, writing is an art, and I love to draw. A word can be totally
different if, say, two lines are touching than if they're not.
Writing in Japanese is full of precision, and I like taking a long,
long time on something and making it exact. But, slowness is another
problem I have that frustrates other people. And my tutor says that I
sometimes have a hard time deciding when getting into details makes
my work better or when it actually hurts my work because "I can't see
the forest for the trees." There IS one part of Japanese that has
been very hard for me. I'm way behind the rest of my class on
memorizing Japanese characters and character blends.

In third grade I went to a special school for kids with LD where we
learned the Slingerland method for reading. That was really good for
me. Now I read books that are really hard, like The Golden Compass
and The Amber Spyglass, my favorite book series.
Visualization-verbalization was really helpful, too, for figuring out
spelling. I'm still a bad speller, but I'm better than I was! But the
other parts of school were too easy for me, and I got bored because I
already knew the science and stuff. When I returned to my public
school, kids asked me, "Dana, Did you go to a special ed. school in
3rd grade?" Special education is not a popular thing. You have to be
normal to be cool.

Some people idealize gifted students because they think they're good
in every subject, but that's not true. We're not super smart in
everything, like a computer. I'm gifted in certain ways. My tutor
told me that I'm a visual learner. For example, in history when my
teacher was telling us about World War II, she showed us pictures of
the ditches that they fought in and the barbed wire. I've always
remembered that scene. History is also more interesting to me when
there are pictures along with words.

Being gifted is a bad thing at some of the schools I've been to. In
movies, "smart alecs" aren't usually fit and good at sports. People
think if you're super smart, then you're probably weak. It's pretty
cool to be a whiz at math, but it's a lot cooler if you're really
athletic. That's what I found at my old public school. Maybe the
other kids are jealous if you're smart. But if you get treated like
that when you're smart, I don't know what they're jealous of!

Now I go to a school for gifted kids, and we're plenty athletic
there. We do movement and dance and martial arts almost every day.
I'm glad that the kids at my school aren't as much into style and how
cool your clothes are. It's a lot more comfortable for me that way.

What's the best way to help kids like me? We need lots of parent
support and not to be yelled at for getting bad grades. The best
thing parents can do is help their kids overcome their difficulties.
It's helped me when my mom keeps me on task and shows me new ways of
studying for a test. It's helped me to find friends that are honest
and don't talk behind my back. It's helped to find a school where
kids don't always worry about being cool and where the teachers see
that I do have things I'm very good at. Once my mom told me a story
about computer nerds who ended up taking over the world, and
sometimes I think of that story and it makes me feel better too.

I hope other kids who are gifted and AD/HD know they're not alone.
I'm sure there are lots of kids who share the same feelings and
frustrations. I hope what I've written helps kids talk to their
parents and teachers about things that bother or worry them and makes
them feel less weird and alone. Talking with them about what things
you're good at and what things are hard for you--and why they're hard
for you -- can help kids start to figure out how to make school a
little easier. Most of all, talking about these things can also help
kids feel better about themselves.

--------
Dana Olney-Bell is a sixth grader at a private middle school in
California. She was diagnosed with AD/HD (attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder) last year. She wrote this story with
her mom, Kathryn Olney, who is a freelance writer and editor.

© Copyright 2002 SchwabLearning.org. Reprinted with kind permission
of Schwab Learning. For more information, please visit
http://ww.schwablearning.org.

======== Community Forums ==========

A Volunteer Opportunity!

CHADD of Northern California will sponsor 2-3 "Community Forums" to
outreach to Latino/Hispanic parents about children with ADHD. The
focus is on access to good mental health care and an appropriate
education. Events may be held in San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento
or other Northern California cities, as determined soon. Events will
be in May 2003.

Your contribution can be large or small, depending on what works for
you. The time commitment is flexible. Experience with outreach or
event planning is very useful but not mandatory.

Please reply directly to this newsletter or to Lew@... to
express interest and get further details.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
9 December 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: (On vacation, back in two weeks)
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Marin - 12/10/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Setting Limits: Learn skills to save your sanity.  -- Speaker:
Michael Vurek, LCSW.
Also, our Annual Holiday Party- Come and enjoy treats and good cheer.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 12/11/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 12/16/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 12/17/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 12/18/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Online - 12/19/2002, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
John and Nancy Ratey - Managing Life & Marriage with AD/HD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Sacramento - 1/7/2003, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Dealing with AD/HD at Home, Work, and at School -- Angela Paccini,
MFT, private practice in Roseville
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Alameda - 1/8/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Santa Clara - 1/8/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
ADD Through the Life Cycle -- Dr. Harry Verby of the Behavioral
Medical Clinic in San Mateo
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 1/14/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Learn down-to-earth skills to manage your anger. -- Peter Chinnici, LCSW
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 1/15/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 1/16/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
San Francisco - 1/20/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 1/21/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 1/22/2003, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
New Directions in Brain Scan Imaging -- William C. Klindt, MD.,
Director of Silicon Valley Brain Imaging, Inc.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org
============================
Marin - 1/22/2003, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
San Francisco - 1/23/2003, Thu. 7-9pm
Educational Speaker TBA --
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: San Francisco Warmline:
415-442-1944
============================
San Mateo - 1/25/2003, Sat. 9 am - Noon; Registration at 8 am
It's So Much Work Being Your Friend; Teaching Friendship Skills to
Children. - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd.  -- This workshop will outline
the development of childhood friendships and will offer specific
strategies designed to enhance the child's friendship skills.
Register online.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit
www.SchwabLearning.org/SchwabLearning.asp?id=1306
============================
Santa Clara - 2/5/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Central Auditory Processing Disorder versus AD/HD. -- Judith Paton,
pediatric and adult audiologist, will speak.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Marin - 2/11/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Ask the Doctor - Dr. Michael Freeman, MD, psychiatrist, specializing
in mood and anxiety disorders.  -- Discuss the virtues of ADHD and
Bipolar Disorder. Ask your questions about current treatment.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 2/12/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 2/17/2003, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 2/18/2003, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 2/19/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 2/20/2003, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================

===== Feature Article ======

The "Feature Article" got a little too buried in the holidays and
will not appear this issue. It will be back next issue, in two weeks.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
25 November 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: The Full Stop - Unemployment for the Adult with ADHD
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Online - 11/25/2002, Mon.  6-8:00 PM PST
Dr. Robert "Bob" Brooks - Fostering Resilience and Hope in Children
with ADD/ADHD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Marin - 11/27/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Sonoma - 12/4/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and Support.  -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses,
teenagers and significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: More
information and directions: 707-765-4863
============================
Contra Costa - 12/4/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Taming the Tiger of Impulsivity --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 12/4/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Marin - 12/10/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Setting Limits: Learn skills to save your sanity.  -- Speaker:
Michael Vurek, LCSW.
Also, our Annual Holiday Party- Come and enjoy treats and good cheer.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 12/11/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 12/16/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 12/17/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 12/18/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Online - 12/19/2002, Thu. 6-8:00 PM PST
John and Nancy Ratey - Managing Life & Marriage with AD/HD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Sacramento - 1/7/2003, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Dealing with AD/HD at Home, Work, and at School -- Angela Paccini,
MFT, private practice in Roseville
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Alameda - 1/8/2003, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Santa Clara - 1/8/2003, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Presentation: Dr. Harry Verby of the Behavioral Medical Clinic in San
Mateo will speak.  -- TBA
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================

===== Feature Article ======

The Full Stop - Unemployment for the Adult with ADHD

By Lew Mills, PhD, MFT (http://www.millsconsulting.com)

More often than one might imagine, adults with ADHD find themselves
without a job and without a plan. Losing a job can have many causes,
but being without a plan is easy to associate with ADHD. ADHD is
characterized by having difficulty visualizing the future as well as
in knowing how to put the pieces together to get there.

Ordinarily unemployment is a good time for some counseling or career
coaching, to focus on the next steps. But I want to describe a
specific circumstance, which I call the "full stop." Beyond having
difficulty thinking of what to do next, at a full stop a person feels
they are losing all forward momentum. It will feel as if they can
never find a job that will use their unique abilities or engage their
unique passions. The full stop is recognizable by the inability to
move forward.

Paradoxically, an ADHD person may also feel like they have a torrent
of thoughts about where to turn next. But each one leads to a few
weeks of planning, submitting applications to schools, sending out a
few tentative resumes and then a realization that something else is
more interesting or workable or more promising. After a bit of time
at the full stop, it is nearly impossible to start forward again.
Paralysis sets in and depression follows.

For a non-ADHD person, with a raft of experiences of success in their
work life, it might make sense to take this opportunity for some
serious re-evaluation of one's life priorities. Life-coaching, or
in-depth career planning might make sense. However, for an ADHD
adult, on the brink of depression and perhaps financial ruin, this
broader perspective is difficult to achieve and anxiety will soon
swamp any view of the big picture. With ADHD, some specific
strategies for the full stop are indicated.

Here is an analogy. When you ride a bike, the faster you are going,
the easier it is to turn smoothly and remain stable. As you approach
a stop sign, you find yourself switching the handlebars back and
forth to keep the front wheel underneath you. If you come to a full
stop, it is nearly impossible to balance on the bike. In order to
navigate the bike now, you need to get some forward motion. It
actually doesn't matter in which direction. Once you are moving, you
can then steer the bike again.

By analogy, you cannot pick a career direction when you have lost all
forward momentum. If you try, you will most likely "tip over."
Pondering the limitless possibilities can quickly overwhelm you.
Before you can pick a direction, you need to have some forward motion!

To translate the metaphor, you need to have a context of success in
the present in order to choose your future. If you get any kind of
experience of success with work, it will give you some momentum. From
there you can build on your confidence and make some turns into
perhaps totally different directions. The more momentum you have
going for you, the easier it is to switch directions, even if you
have been going in the completely wrong direction.

You need to get started somewhere, and it is OK to let go of making
it the "best" direction to be going in. There is one more
qualification of this rule, however. It is much easier to get started
going downhill than facing up the hill. In other words, you do have
to choose something that you will succeed in. Here it is important to
realize where your strengths and weaknesses are.

A person who feels that they have failed in one job will sometimes
choose the next job at a "lower level." But this does not necessarily
mean it uses their strengths better. Often lower level jobs are ones
with more clerical, organizational demands and fewer higher-order
thinking demands. How much sense does it make to go with a job that
suites your ADHD abilities less? Think about what you really do know
that you can do well, and go with that. Narrow your vision for a
short while and stick to that, until you are moving again. Then you
can steer.

Can't even find a starting place? Here is another analogy for how
almost any activity is better than no activity at all. In sailing,
like bicycles, you can sometimes come to a full stop as well. But if
you "scull" the tiller back and forth you can actually fan the water
off the back of the boat enough to push yourself forward. Literally
changing direction, repeatedly and forcefully, can propel you forward
enough that you can then turn back into the wind and sail. There may
not be any other way to catch the breezes that will push you forward.

You don't fool yourself that this aimless churning of the water off
of your stern is deliberate steering. You know that it is just to
move you to where you can turn into the wind again. In other words,
if you do need to investigate a million possibilities, know that you
are sculling, not steering. You will meet lots of people, talk about
a lot of ideas, and something eventually is going to happen that will
push you along. Once you have momentum, then you can find where the
wind can help you most.

Is this making sense? Get moving forward before you try to steer. If
you can't move at all, steer everywhere, just to generate the
activity that will help you find some forward motion. Once you are
moving, then you can actually steer where you want to go.

Let's hope you never find yourself in this position. It is a very
lonely and scary place to be. But if you do find yourself there, know
these self-rescue tips and it might help you get back to smooth
sailing sooner than you think!

(Lew Mills, PhD, MFT, is a psychotherapist in San Francisco working
with adults with ADHD.)

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
11 November 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Time Management & Organization
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Marin - 11/12/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Overcome Procrastination, Learn to Prioritize. -- Speaker: Deborah Lancastor
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 11/13/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Yolo - 11/13/2002, Wed. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
El Dorado - 11/16/2002, Sat. 10 am - 3 pm
Self-Advocacy Seminar for Students -- A free self-advocacy seminar
offered by Area Board III designed especially for special ed or 504
students (parents welcome as space permits).
100 Forni Road, Placerville - Contact: : 916-939-3905
============================
San Francisco - 11/18/2002, Mon. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 11/19/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 11/20/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 11/20/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Online - 11/25/2002, Mon. 6-8:00 PM PST
Dr. Robert "Bob" Brooks - Fostering Resilience and Hope in Children
with ADD/ADHD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Marin - 11/27/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Contra Costa - 12/4/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Taming the Tiger of Impulsivity --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 12/4/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================

===== Feature Article ======

Time Management and Organization

by Lew Mills, PhD, MFT

For adults, time management and keeping organized are often the
lingering symptoms of ADHD that extend past our childhood. Getting a
handle on these skills is usually a priority for ADHD adults. A good
place to start is a good book.

There are two kinds of books for "Time Management" and
"Organization." Knowing the difference may be the most important
thing you can learn. The difference is this: Some of authors know
that you have ADHD, and others don't get it. When an author gets it,
you'll harvest the three nuggets I have laid out for you below.

The nuggets are:
1. Know yourself and work with who you are.
2. Keep it simple
3. Don't fight yourself.

Let's start with the authors who don't get it about ADHD. A typical
approach to procrastination, for example, is to suggest that you take
a look at the unconscious reasons why you might delay important work.
Are you anxious about failure? Are you afraid of success? Do you
think that if you are successful, you will have to live up to
unrealistically high expectations from now on? Those could be
interesting questions, but for the ADHD adult, it is the wrong place
to start.

Here's what really matters. If you have ADHD, you don't see time the
way others do. You don't spread it out on a line, in equal minute
increments, one following the next at a constant speed. Yes, you know
that this is the way everyone says you are supposed to think about
time, but that is not how you do it.

No amount of cajoling about getting an earlier start is likely to be
helpful in changing this pattern. (I am writing this expert opinion
on this matter about three hours after I should have finished it up.
Trust me: knowing better doesn't count for much!)

Which brings me to a test for those authors who "don't get it." If a
book suggests that you should just try harder and get started
earlier, you should save your time by not reading it. You have
probably already "tried harder" repeatedly. The suggestion that you
"try harder at trying harder" this time is nonsensical.

So nugget #1 is that you need to understand how these things work for
you, not for some ideal person. Learn about yourself and accept what
you learn. Work with how you are, not how you should be. The good
news is that there are ways to work with the kind of person you are.
Good books show you how.

Here's another clue that you are on the wrong track. Your book's
project plan to get you organized is detailed in chapters 33 through
39. You now embark on the 18 step, process. You pick up the 23 items
you'll need at four different stores and lay them out on your living
room floor, by categories. You have made a special note of 14 things
to keep in mind as you proceed to get organizedŠ

I'm sorry! If you got this far, you may not have ADHD. Go check out
the Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder website. Getting organized for an
ADHDer has to be simple.

So here is nugget #2: Do it slow and simple. It actually takes years
to learn to organize yourself and manage time. Don't expect to get it
done in a weekend. It is worth it, but know that you are in for the
long run, and take it easy.

Now, here is a part that is most difficult and has the biggest
payoffs. Nugget #3 is, "Don't fight yourself." Why would you fight
yourself? Who knows! But we do fight with ourselves constantly, and
we usually lose!

A quality that often comes with ADHD is a penchant for fighting with
"authority." Most rules just seem stupid to an ADHDer. Maybe it's
true and lots of rules are stupid. But we can't let it go. We have to
show everyone how stupid those rules are. Rule-makers don't enjoy
this much and often have the power to make us suffer for sharing our
wisdom.

But therein is the tougher challenge. When we try to organize
ourselves, try to manage our time and so on, we are managing
ourselves. What? I just became a "manager" and a rule-maker? That's
right!

Now that you are a manager, this is your chance to make the kind of
rules that work, not stupid ones, not the ones that a person would
resent. You need patterns and structures that help you get things
done. Those are rules. You don't need new ways to punish yourself
when you break your own rules.

So reward yourself when you get it right. When you mess it up
completely, make your failure into a success. When you procrastinate,
remind yourself that you had a good time doing it. When you take a
break, go do something fun! Get off your back. Make the best of what
you were able to do, forgive yourself, and move on.

We do constantly disappoint ourselves, as we do others. But it just
doesn't do any good to punish yourself for it. Self-recrimination
wastes energy. Skip fighting with yourself, have a reasonable break,
and then go back to work for a self-"manager" that you like! You
don't need more "self-discipline." You need some "self-reward."

That's nugget #3. Don't fight with yourself. Catch yourself doing
something right and give yourself a raise.

Remember nugget #1? Know yourself and work with who you are. And #2:
Keep it simple.

OK. I think that a few good books are in order. I have created a few
links on the CHADD website where you can look up books that are
specifically geared toward ADHD adults. Check out which resonates
best for you. Don't buy them all today, right? Just get a start on
it. Read the introduction and leave it out on your kitchen table,
where you can see it. A good book will come back to you.

http://www.chaddnorcal.org/Books/Recs.htm

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
28 October 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: (CHADD Dimples took the day off.)
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Sacramento - 11/5/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
AD/HD and Women's Issues  -- Speaker: Cass Brown, PhD.
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Santa Clara - 11/5/2002, Sat. 7:15 - 9:30 pm
Working With The Schools -- Steve Corelis shares his experiences both
as an administrator and an advocate. The emphasis will be on conflict
avoidance and using "win-win" technique.
Parents Helping Parents, Santa Clara - Contact: Parents Helping
Parents: 3041 Olcott Street, Santa Clara, CA 95054
408-727-5775
============================
Sonoma - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and Support.  -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
Contra Costa - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Establishing Priorities --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Santa Clara - 11/6/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Medications -- Dr. Sanjay Jasuja, author of "A Book on Stress, ADD &
Parenting" and "Out of Chaos!" will speak on the subject of
medications.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
**** - 11/7/2002,  Through 11/9/2002
Building for the Future -- Learning Disabilities Association of
California 2002 State Conference
Ontario Airport Marriott, Ontario, CA - Visit the Web site at: www.lda-ca.org
============================
Marin - 11/12/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Overcome Procrastination, Learn to Prioritize.  -- Speaker: Deborah Lancastor
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 11/13/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 11/18/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 11/19/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 11/20/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 11/20/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Online - 11/25/2002, Mon.  6-8:00 PM PST
Dr. Robert "Bob" Brooks - Fostering Resilience and Hope in Children
with ADD/ADHD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Marin - 11/27/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Contra Costa - 12/4/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Taming the Tiger of Impulsivity --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
San Francisco - 12/4/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Marin - 12/10/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Setting Limits: Learn skills to save your sanity.  -- Speaker:
Michael Vurek, LCSW.
Also, our Annual Holiday Party- Come and enjoy treats and good cheer.
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 12/11/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 12/16/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 12/17/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Contra Costa - 12/18/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================

===== Feature Article ======

CHADD Dimples took the day off. He's sulking about the Giants' loss,
but he'll be back in two weeks!

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
13 October 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: My Story
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

============================
Marin - 10/14/2002, Mon.  7-9pm
Affordable Counseling- learn about the four main counseling agencies
in Marin that offer psychotherapy at sliding scale. Learn about the
services they offer for ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use
disorder, etc. for adults, couples, families, parents, children,
teens.  -- Note: different day & location from usual: Marin General
Hospital, main auditorium, first floor.  Conjoint meeting with NAMI.
Marin General Hospital, Corte Madera - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Marin - 10/15/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 10/16/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Yolo - 10/17/2002, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
**** - 10/17/2002, through 10/19/01
Partners For Progress: 15 years of giving hope, changing lives! --
CHADD Fourteenth Annual Conference on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder
Fontainebleau Hilton Resort, Miami Beach, FL - Contact: See Website:
www.chadd.org/webpage.cfm?cat_id=14
============================
San Francisco - 10/19/2002, Sat. 2-4:30pm
LD and/or ADHD Accommodations -- A workshop by educational therapist
Steven J. Corelis for teachers and parents, will focus on challenges
to the student in the classroom; student response to challenges; what
the law says; and accommodations, strategies, modifications,
compensations. (All programs at the SFPL are free)
San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco - Contact: SFPL  Resource
Collection for LDs: 415-557-4540
============================
San Francisco - 10/21/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Online - 10/23/2002, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Wendy Richardson - Eating Disorders, Addiction, and ADHD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Marin - 10/23/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Santa Clara - 10/23/2002, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Discussion of and sharing
successful ADHD/LD strategies and coping skills with other like
ADDults
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit [a href="http://www.kpinst.org/"
target="_blank"]www.kpinst.org/[/a]
============================
San Francisco - 10/24/2002, Thu. 7-9pm
Helping Parents to Advocate for their Child within the School System.
-- Janine Matteson, MFT, is a marriage and family therapist, as well
as a resource specialist in the present day school system.  CHECK
location: This meeting is in Dining Room A, across from the cafeteria.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: San Francisco Warmline:
415-442-1944
============================
Sacramento - 11/5/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
AD/HD and Women's Issues  -- Speaker: Cass Brown, PhD.
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Contra Costa - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Establishing Priorities --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 11/6/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Medications -- Dr. Sanjay Jasuja, author of "A Book on Stress, ADD &
Parenting" and "Out of Chaos!" will speak on the subject of
medications.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Sonoma - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and Support.  -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
Marin - 11/12/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Overcome Procrastination, Learn to Prioritize.  -- Speaker: Deborah Lancastor
Town Center Corte Madera Community Room, Corte Madera - Contact:
Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Alameda - 11/13/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================

===== Feature Article ======

My Story
By L.T.

When I saw a therapist friend of mine to find out if he had any
suggestions for the anxiety I was having, as well as an inability to
finish projects, he decided to ask me some questions before telling
me the usual remedy for anxiety.

I should first let you know I was talking to my friend with two
prejudgments I had already made about therapy and medication.

The first was that I was against any medication for things like
depression (everyone gets depressed, right), anxiety (everyone gets
anxious at times), or lack of focus (because a space cadet was a
label I got early on, and I liked how it made me feel apart from the
"norm").

More importantly though I was against any medication because my
family had a pretty bad record with drugs. I'm in AA. I've been sober
for 12 years now. My father was an alcoholic too, and after 18 years
sobriety, started drinking again after abusing prescribed medication.
In two years he was dead.

My sister was prescribed medication for depression, and shortly after
began drinking again. (I think she may have had ADD, and been
misdiagnosed, but I'm no MD). She found sobriety for a while after
that. Unfortunately after a couple of years of sobriety, she went out
and shortly after died.

So I hope you can understand my fear, and disdain for medications for
mental problems. I thought the steps of AA alone would save me. Well,
I waited until I had 12 years sobriety, and found the steps just
weren't enough. I just couldn't shake this feeling of anxiety.

But that wasn't the main reason why I was talking to my therapist
friend. I was talking to him because I could never finish anything.
Well that's not true. I finished a lot of things. I had a BA; I was a
talented inventor, and a hang glider pilot of 12 years. I had skills,
but I could never seem to follow through on most of them. And it was
driving me nuts! I always seemed to have at least five or six
projects going on at any one time. And if a project ran in to any
problems, I would drop it.

I realized I got off on the high of new ideas. It was a rush. But the
high would peek, and then I just wouldn't care as much.

As a person who wants to be a successful inventor, this is a perfect
description of hell. And I was in it. No matter how I tried, I
couldn't get out, until I got to the point of where I was willing to
do anything to get over this problem, including taking medication.

Now, up until that point I considered taking medication equal to a
death sentence, because I only had to look to my family to see the
results of what would happen. Not to mention I had seen many people
in AA go out on medications as well. So please understand that when I
asked my friend about this problem, I was doing it with a huge
portion of dread, and fear, should he recommend that I look to
therapy and possibly medications of some sort.

He asked me to describe how I was feeling. Then he asked me to tell
him a little about my past and growing up. After a short time, he
said, "You know, it sounds like you may have attention deficit
disorder." He gave me a referral to a MD physiatrist, who specialized
in ADD. This really scared me because I had gone to my family doctor
(which I don't recommend), and in two minutes got a prescription for
an anti-anxiety drug. I never could bring myself to fill it though
because I just didn't think my family doctor knew that much about
mental stuff.

Now at the time, here was my opinion of ADD. ADD was for parents who
couldn't handle being parents, and instead, wanted kids who were
doped up enough to calm down enough to look and act almost like
adults. Sorry, did I mention I can be really critical and judgmental
(ha ha)? I only knew one person in another 12 step program (debtor's
anonymous) who admitted having ADD as an adult, and it never occurred
to me that my experience was similar to his.

But at least I had learned in AA if you wanted to take action, that
meant taking action, even if you think it's not going to do anything,
or it's really scary, and/or unaffordable.

So I met with this specialist on ADD, and spent quite a bit of time
answering questions for him about my life, and my behaviors. At the
end of it, he looked up at me and said, "It sounds like you have ADD,
but we'll need to look further to see if there is anything else there
too." He gave me a book "Driven to Distraction", and began to outline
what ADD is, and how it affects both children and adults. He also
mentioned he had ADD too, and so I felt a little better, because I
discovered he understood the feelings.

I was floored. No, let me try and be more specific. I felt the same
feeling that I felt when I stepped into my first AA meeting. He was
speaking my language, to a tee. The lack of focus, inability to pay
attention in social situations and relationships, addiction to- (fill
in the blank here)-, school records filled with "potential", and
little results, restlessness, thrill-seeker, bright, creative,
problems with authority, and quick temper.

These also happen to be a good description of a dry drunk, or sober,
without serenity. This is why I had held out for so long before
seeing someone. I thought I was just flawed, broken. Bright, but
broken.

He recommended medication. I clinched my teeth, and said ok.

I read. I began the medication. I was nervous as hell, because I felt
it was only going to be a matter of time before I went out and got
loaded, and shortly after died. What choice did I have? My back was
up against a wall.

So I was dammed if I did, and dammed if I didn't.

Within two days, the most amazing thing happened though. My critical
self, which held a full-time office in my head telling me how I
wasn't going to succeed and that I was a fine chap who just didn't
have enough drive to get anywhere in life, left. Just plain moved
out, and hasn't been back since.

It was like a ten thousand pound weight was lifted off my head. About
this time, I also saw my projects in a new light. Well maybe I should
say any light, because they now looked as chaotic and scattered as
they really were.

So for the first month, I just put everything on hold, and enjoyed a
vacation from my old self, and discovered another gift of the
medication and therapy: the present.

My mind had always been on alert, waiting for the other shoe to drop,
which is fine if you're in a war zone, which I wasn't. It's like I
had a forest to guard, and was always setting traps. I had always
blamed it on my mother, because that was how she was. But with it
gone, I found I could really enjoy conversations better, the view
better, and that thing I had gone for therapy for in the first place,
focus.

Since I started treatment for my ADD, life has changed quite a bit.
It's not perfect. I still have my problems like any normal person. I
still have to work, and pay my bills, be a dad for my 4-year-old son,
and a husband for my lovely wife. But frankly after all these years
of being on a soapbox about medication and recovery, I'm convinced of
two things.

The first is that I don't have the letters "MD" in my name at all, so
I don't know squat about mental illness, and that unless your name
has an "MD" after it, you might not either. I'm humbled, and sorry to
everyone I've ever spouted off to about the dangers of medication in
recovery. I just hope I didn't contribute to anyone's death over the
years by holding them back from getting help outside of AA. I would
add that it was important (just for me) to have the recovery I had
before seeing a therapist, and beginning any kind of medication.
Medication is great, if needed, and therapy too, but in recovery, the
steps and all the work I've done in recovery have been priceless. But
that's where I stop offering any advice to those in recovery, because
frankly, I just don't know what's good for anyone other than me, and
even there I've been proven wrong more times than I care to admit.

The second is that I have ADD, and I'm a thousand times better now
that I'm doing something about it. And that I'm no longer broken,
just slightly askew.

In fact, I'm so happy how it's changed my life, I started a web site,
to attract and meet other people who have had similar experiences, or
perhaps are wondering if they, or someone they know might have ADD
too.

So like in AA I'll say, "Take what you like and leave the rest." And
if you don't hear your story in mine, but still think you may have
ADD, stick around and read some other folks stories cause you may
find that story that fits yours.

(L.T. is starting a web site for others to share ADD stories. If you
would like to send a story to CHADD Dimples, he will forward it to
L.T. -Ed.)

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with other members.
Please feel free to write to us about anything that you would like to
see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.


--

CHADD Dimples
Editor, "Center of Attention"
CHADD of Northern California, Chapter # 504
mailto:CHADD_Dimples@...
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
Fax or Voice Message: 510-291-2950
Toll Free 888-759-9758

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
30 September 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: IDEA Reauthorization
This Week: Today is the Last Day to Register for CHADD's National Conference!
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

San Francisco - 9/30/2002, Mon.  1-5 pm
Mental Health Association of San Francisco Presents:  Hoarding And
Cluttering: Solutions 2002 - Eviction prevention and de-cluttering
strategies for compulsive hoarders and people who care about them.
-- Confirmed Presenters include: Michael Tompkins, Ph.D, Director of
Professional Training - Center for Cognitive Therapy; Francis
Strassman, Professional Organizer - More Than Order. Registration:
$30. MHA Members $20. Low income: No one turned away for lack of
funds.
The State Building: 455 Golden Gate Avenue at Polk, San Francisco -
Contact: Mental Health Association of San Francisco: 415-241-2926 or
visit www.mha-sf.org
============================
Sacramento - 10/1/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Spectrum Disorders - John Capel, PhD. -- A revolutionary new model in
the diagfnosis and treatment of AD/HD occurred when some researchers
forged the new concept of "spectrum disorders." This presentation may
offer some answers for people struggling with atypical symptoms.
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Contra Costa - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Finding the Right Career for the ADDer --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Sonoma - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Pamela LeBlanc, MA, Parent Educator will speak on Parenting Styles
and the Six Goals of Behavior.   -- What is your parenting style?
Would you like to learn how to create mutually respectful family
relationships?  Can tools like these work in other relationships,
like with bosses, co-workers, or your child's teacher?  You bet!
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
Santa Clara - 10/2/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Presentation: Dr. Brendan Pratt -- TBA
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Francisco - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
San Mateo - 10/5/2002, Sat. 9 am - Noon
Last One Picked...First One Picked On: The Socail Implications of
Learning Differences. - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd.  -- $20.
Pre-registration ends 9/20/02.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit www.SchwabLearning.org/events
============================
San Mateo - 10/5/2002,  through 10/6/02
Reed Martin, JD - Workshop - Special Ed Advocacy, IEP's and 504's, 2
day Workshop -- Sponsored by Learning Disabilities Association of CA.
Registration: LDA Members, $150; Non-members, $175.
San Mateo Marriot, San Mateo - Contact: www.ldaca.org or 916-745-7882
============================
San Mateo - 10/8/2002, Tues. 7:30 - 9:00 pm
Jonathan Mooney - Overcoming Learning and Attentional Difficulties to
Reach Academic Success -- Jonathan Mooney is co-author of "Learning
Outside the Lines" and addresses the emotional experiences of
alternative learners and shares practical strategies. Co-sponsored by
Orinda Union School District and Schwab Learning.
Orinda Intermediate School; 80 Ivy Drive, Orinda - Contact:
925-254-5990 or visit Schwab Learning: www.SchwabLearning.org/events
============================
Alameda - 10/9/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Marin - 10/14/2002, Mon.  7-9pm
Affordable Counseling- learn about the four main counseling agencies
in Marin that offer psychotherapy at sliding scale. Learn about the
services they offer for ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use
disorder, etc. for adults, couples, families, parents, children,
teens.  -- Note: different day & location from usual: Marin General
Hospital, main auditorium, first floor.  Conjoint meeting with NAMI.
Marin General Hospital, Corte Madera - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Marin - 10/15/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 10/16/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
**** - 10/17/2002,  through 10/19/01
Partners For Progress: 15 years of giving hope, changing lives! --
CHADD Fourteenth Annual Conference on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder
Fontainebleau Hilton Resort, Miami Beach, FL - Contact: See Website:
www.chadd.org/webpage.cfm?cat_id=14
============================
San Francisco - 10/19/2002, Sat. 2-4:30pm
LD and/or ADHD Accommodations -- A workshop by educational therapist
Steven J. Corelis for teachers and parents, will focus on challenges
to the student in the classroom; student response to challenges; what
the law says; and accommodations, strategies, modifications,
compensations. (All programs at the SFPL are free)
San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco - Contact: SFPL  Resource
Collection for LDs: 415-557-4540
============================
San Francisco - 10/21/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Online - 10/23/2002, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Wendy Richardson - Eating Disorders, Addiction, and ADHD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Marin - 10/23/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Santa Clara - 10/23/2002, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Discussion of and sharing
successful ADHD/LD strategies and coping skills with other like
ADDults
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org/
============================
San Francisco - 10/24/2002, Thu. 7-9pm
Helping Parents to Advocate for their Child within the School System.
-- Janine Matteson, MFT, is a marriage and family therapist, as well
as a resource specialist in the present day school system.  CHECK
location: This meeting is in Dining Room A, across from the cafeteria.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: San Francisco Warmline:
415-442-1944
============================
Sacramento - 11/5/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
AD/HD and Women's Issues  -- Speaker: Cass Brown, PhD.
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Contra Costa - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Establishing Priorities --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Santa Clara - 11/6/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Medications -- Dr. Sanjay Jasuja, author of "A Book on Stress, ADD &
Parenting" and "Out of Chaos!" will speak on the subject of
medications.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Sonoma - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and Support.  -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 11/6/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================

===== Feature Article ======

IDEA Reauthorization and The Special Ed Commission:  Current Threats
to the Rights of Children With AD/HD and Other Disabilities

In July, The President's Commission on Excellence in Special
Education issued their report entitled, "A New Era: Revitalizing
Special Education for Children and Their Families".  The Commission,
which was created in October 2001 by President Bush to ultimately
"recommend reforms to improve America's special education system",
reported 9 findings and 3 major recommendations.  While some of their
findings are certainly valid, the Commission's report in conjunction
with The No Child Left Behind Act pose a threat to the rights of
children with disabilities and their families.  (The No Child Left
Behind Act was signed in to law January 2, 2002.)

Currently IDEA is up for reauthorization even though IDEA '97 hasn't
been fully implemented to date and its' successes cannot be entirely
judged. Among other things, the Commission's report may very likely
contribute to changes in eligibility categories, behavioral supports
and protections, and a reduction in required paperwork and its'
safeguards. Numerous disability advocacy groups stress that changes
in these areas will particularly affect children with mental health
issues including AD/HD.  The report does not address the need to
fully fund IDEA.

During conference in Miami, a V.A.N. session is being held on
Saturday, October 19 at which time Dr. Robert Pasternack, Assistant
Secretary for the U.S. Department of Education Office for Special
Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), will be addressing the
Department's position on the reauthorization of IDEA.  Matt Cohen
will be responding with CHADD's position.  The moderated discussion
will then be opened up for comment.  This is an excellent opportunity
for CHADD leaders and members to present their personal stories and
have impact on the reauthorization process.

If you are passionate about this issue, are well versed in the
issues, and are interested in the possibility of giving testimony,
please contact Dina Dudarevitch (dmdina@...) prior to or during
conference. Individual statements will be no more than 3 minutes in
length, so prepare accordingly.  Written statements should focus on
pertinent issues, successes experienced by your child or children due
to IDEA, and written from the heart!  Please include an appeal to
protect and fully implement IDEA as currently written.  It is
extremely important that all adversarial contact is avoided.

Thank you, not only for your efforts on behalf of CHADD, but for the
benefit of all children with disabilities.

RESOURCE LIST:
1) "Looming Reauthorization Battle Threatens Rights of Kids with
Disabilities Under IDEA '97" by Matt Cohen; Attention! Magazine,
August 2002.

2) "A New Era:  Revitalizing Special Education for Children and
Families", The President's Commission on Excellence in Special
Education.
http://www.ed.gov/inits/commissionsboards/whspecialeducation/

3) CHADD Comments on the Recommendations of the President's
Commission on Excellence in Special Education (PCESE) for the
Reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act /
Letter to Mr. Thomas Irvin,  Office of Special Education and
Rehabilitative Services
http://www.chadd.org/newszoom.cfm?cat_id=7&subcat_id=37&news_id=91

4) No Child Left Behind Act
http://www.nclb.org/

5) Join the CHADD V.A.N.-Volunteer Action Network
http://www.chadd.org

6) NAMI Where We Stand
http://www.nami.org/policy/wherewestand/idea.html

======== This Week ==========

Today is the Last Day to Register for CHADD's National Conference! If
you looked before and fares seemed too high, look again. Many fares
have fallen.

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
16 September 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Announcing: San Francisco Group Launch - 9/23
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Marin - 9/17/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 9/18/2002, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Ned Hallowell, MD - The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Santa Clara - 9/18/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Alameda - 9/18/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Yolo - 9/19/2002, Thu. Lending Library 7:00 pm; 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm
County Meeting -- CHADD welcomes all with interest or concerns
regarding attention deficit disorder.
Davis Branch, Yolo County Library, Davis - Contact: Yolo County
CHADD: 530-750-3929
============================
San Francisco - 9/23/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group NEW!! -- This launches the New San Francisco
Adult group, to be on the third Monday of the month from here on out.
(This one is on the fourth Monday, one time only.) "The first meeting
will be an opportunity to get input from the group on the topics they
would like to cover in subsequent meetings. I want to be the
organizer/facilitator, but get the membership very active in
selecting topics, gathering materials, etc." - Rachel
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 9/25/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Santa Clara - 9/25/2002, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
ADD and Procrastination -- Debbie Lancaster, member of Silicon Valley CHADD
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit www.kpinst.org/
============================
San Francisco - 9/26/2002, Thu. 7-9pm
Educational Speaker TBA --
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: San Francisco Warmline:
415-442-1944
============================
Santa Clara - 9/28/2002, Sat. 9 am to 5 pm
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Empowering Teens
HP Corporation; 19447 Pruneridge Ave.; Bldg 48; Oak Room, Cupertino -
Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit
www.kpinst.org/
============================
San Francisco - 9/30/2002, Mon.  1-5 pm
Mental Health Association of San Francisco Presents:  Hoarding And
Cluttering: Solutions 2002 - Eviction prevention and de-cluttering
strategies for compulsive hoarders and people who care about them.
-- Confirmed Presenters include: Michael Tompkins, Ph.D, Director of
Professional Training - Center for Cognitive Therapy; Francis
Strassman, Professional Organizer - More Than Order. Registration:
$30. MHA Members $20. Low income: No one turned away for lack of
funds.
The State Building: 455 Golden Gate Avenue at Polk, San Francisco -
Contact: Mental Health Association of San Francisco: 415-241-2926 or
visit www.mha-sf.org
============================
Sacramento - 10/1/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Spectrum Disorders - John Capel, PhD. -- A revolutionary new model in
the diagfnosis and treatment of AD/HD occurred when some researchers
forged the new concept of "spectrum disorders." This presentation may
offer some answers for people struggling with atypical symptoms.
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Contra Costa - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult Topical Meeting: Finding the Right Career for the ADDer --
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Sonoma - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Pamela LeBlanc, MA, Parent Educator will speak on Parenting Styles
and the Six Goals of Behavior.   -- What is your parenting style?
Would you like to learn how to create mutually respectful family
relationships?  Can tools like these work in other relationships,
like with bosses, co-workers, or your child's teacher?  You bet!
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
Santa Clara - 10/2/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Presentation: Dr. Brendan Pratt -- TBA
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Francisco - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
San Mateo - 10/5/2002, Sat. 9 am - Noon
Last One Picked...First One Picked On: The Socail Implications of
Learning Differences. - Richard Lavoie, MS, MEd.  -- $20.
Pre-registration ends 9/20/02.
South San Francisco Conference Center, South San Francisco - Contact:
Schwab Learning: 800-230-0988 or visit www.SchwabLearning.org/events
============================
San Mateo - 10/5/2002,  through 10/6/02
Reed Martin, JD - Workshop - Special Ed Advocacy, IEP's and 504's, 2
day Workshop -- Sponsored by Learning Disabilities Association of CA.
Registration: LDA Members, $150; Non-members, $175.
San Mateo Marriot, San Mateo - Contact: www.ldaca.org or 916-745-7882
============================
Alameda - 10/9/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
Marin - 10/14/2002, Mon.  7-9pm
Affordable Counseling- learn about the four main counseling agencies
in Marin that offer psychotherapy at sliding scale. Learn about the
services they offer for ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use
disorder, etc. for adults, couples, families, parents, children,
teens.  -- Note: different day & location from usual: Marin General
Hospital, main auditorium, first floor.  Conjoint meeting with NAMI.
Marin General Hospital, Corte Madera - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Marin - 10/15/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Santa Clara - 10/16/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
**** - 10/17/2002,  through 10/19/01
Partners For Progress: 15 years of giving hope, changing lives! --
CHADD Fourteenth Annual Conference on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder
Fontainebleau Hilton Resort, Miami Beach, FL - Contact: See Website:
www.chadd.org/
============================
San Francisco - 10/21/2002, Mon.  7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group -- Share skills and strategies for success at
home, in the workplace, in relationships, etc.
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================

======== Announcing: ==========

"Success" Group for Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (San Francisco)

Are you an adult who has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder?
Are you not diagnosed but think you might have ADD?

CHADD, the largest non-profit organization serving individuals with
Attention Deficit Disorder, is launching a new support group in San
Francisco. You do not have to be a member of CHADD to attend. Peers will
share successes and challenges and in the process learn new skills and
strategies to manage ADD at home, in the workplace and in relationships. The
first meeting is an opportunity to meet other attendees/members and provide
input on the topics to be covered in subsequent meetings. Members are
invited to take an active part in selecting topics, researching and
gathering materials.  Please join us to create a dynamic group serving the
city of San Francisco!

Date/ Time:
Monday 9/23 from 7-9 p.m. (Moving forward, the group will meet on the 3rd
Monday of the month.)

Location:
CPMC Pacific Campus (2223 Buchanan Street) in Pacific Heights- Board Room.
Directions: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/schedule/directions.htm#CPMC-D

Fee:
Free for members of CHADD, although a voluntary contribution is appreciated.
$5 for non-members

For more information:
http://www.chaddnorcal.org/schedule
or email rachel@...

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
2 September 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: Some Demystified Psychology
This Week: New San Francisco Adult Group!
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========

Sacramento - 9/3/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Social Skills -- More details at the meeting...
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Santa Clara - 9/4/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Presentation -- TBA at the meeting.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Sonoma - 9/4/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and Support. -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences. Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 9/4/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Attendance usually picks up in the Fall,
so this is your chance to meet some interesting, supportive new
women. Please Call Lynn to confirm times and locations before
attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
San Francisco - 9/14/2002, Sat. 9:00a.m.-12:30p.m
Dr. Ruth Serepca - "Executive Processing in Children:
Relationship to Learning and Social Functioning" -- Sponsored by the
International Dyslexia Association. Pre-Registration is Required:
Send a check payable to NCBIDA for $20 (IDA members) or $25
(non-members). Mail to NCBIDA Winter Meeting, 1737 Vallejo St., San
Francisco, CA 94123. With your check, include your name or a list of
the names of people pre-registering so that nametags can be made for
you and your group. NO confirmations will be sent. NO refunds
available.
UCSF Conference Center, Laurel Heights, San Francisco - Contact:
International Dyslexia Association: 650-328-7667 or visit
www.interdys.org
============================
Marin - 9/17/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
============================
Online - 9/18/2002, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Ned Hallowell, MD - The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Santa Clara - 9/18/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Alameda - 9/18/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Tri-Valley Parent Support Meeting --
Thomas J. Hart Middle School, Pleasanton - Contact: JoAnn Matone: 925-484-2173
============================
San Francisco - 9/23/2002, Mon. 7:00 - 9pm
Adult Success Group NEW!! -- This launches the New San Francisco
Adult group, to be on the third Monday of the month from here on out.
(This one is on the fourth Monday, one time only.) "The first meeting
will be an opportunity to get input from the group on the topics they
would like to cover in subsequent meetings. I want to be the
organizer/facilitator, but get the membership very active in
selecting topics, gathering materials, etc." - Rachel
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Rachel Rosenfeld: 415-362-7227
============================
Marin - 9/25/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Santa Clara - 9/25/2002, Wed. 7:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
ADD and Procrastination -- Debbie Lancaster, member of Silicon Valley CHADD
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD
Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit: www.kpinst.org
============================
San Francisco - 9/26/2002, Thu. 7-9pm
Educational Speaker TBA --
CPMC Pacific Campus, San Francisco - Contact: San Francisco Warmline:
415-442-1944
============================
Santa Clara - 9/28/2002, Sat. 9 am to 5 pm
Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Meeting -- Empowering Teens
HP Corporation; 19447 Pruneridge Ave.; Bldg 48; Oak Room, Cupertino -
Contact: Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute: 650-329-9443 or visit
www.kpinst.org
============================
Sacramento - 10/1/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
TBA --
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Sonoma - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Pamela LeBlanc, MA, Parent Educator will speak on Parenting Styles
and the Six Goals of Behavior.  -- What is your parenting style?
Would you like to learn how to create mutually respectful family
relationships? Can tools like these work in other relationships, like
with bosses, co-workers, or your child's teacher? You bet!
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
Santa Clara - 10/2/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Presentation: Dr. Brendan Pratt -- TBA
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
San Francisco - 10/2/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================

===== Feature Article ======

Some Demystified Psychology

In his work with learning differences in children, Mel Levine is
popularizing the idea of "demystification." The notion is that the
more you tell someone about their disability, the better they will
cope with it. It is not enough for professionals to decide how they
will help, based only on their expertise. It makes more sense to
empower the person who is in the front lines, struggling with their
challenges, so that they can make their own appropriate choices.

In this spirit, I want to offer some theory about how people
interact, which you may be able to put to immediate use for yourself
and the people around you. This is "demystifying" some of the social
dynamics that occur around ADHD.

The general category of this theory is called attribution theory, but
you only have to know the following basic rules:

First, we don't usually know why someone else did something and we
are unlikely to ask. Because of this, we guess. Second, our guesses,
about others' motivations and so on, are predictably distorted.
Specifically, we explain the motivations of others differently than
we do our own.

As a tendency, we attribute our own failures or mistakes to specific
circumstances. But other people's failures and mistakes seem to us to
be a product of permanent features about that person. In other words,
we are less charitable with our fellow humans than with ourselves. As
a third rule, we also tend to over-generalize the failings in others
into being a broad pattern of "character." Our own mistakes were a
one-time thing, but the other person's mistake is an indicator of
"how they are" in all realms of their life.

I don't think that these distortions are just a result of the "evil
in people's hearts." Part of it must be because we know less about
that other person. We don't have as much access to their inner
thoughts, which might more accurately explain why they did something.
So we are stuck guessing about people, in a process that emphasizes
character flaws and generalized incompetence rather than specific
circumstances.

Those are the rules of social judgment. And knowing them can help you
out! This theory is very applicable when anyone makes a judgment
about a person who has ADHD. We just can't see from the outside
whether or not someone is "trying as hard as they can" and so on. So
we are inclined to make the common judgments that are made about
people with ADHD: "He can do it sometimes, so I know he is able toŠ",
"She just needs to focus and try harderŠ" and "Don't give in. He is
just making excuses and you will encourage irresponsibility." In
these phrases, we attribute behavior to the ADHD person's "general
bad character."

What makes the situation even more difficult is that the person with
ADHD may be at as much of a loss for an adequate explanation of
himself or herself as the outside observer. They may not have a good
theoretical understanding of exactly what the disability is, and may
not even be a good observer of their own internal states, (a common
symptom). ADHD people become essentially "outside observers" of
themselves.

As a result, the ADHD person's guesses about their own behavior are
also based on ideas of character flaws and a permanent, generalized
incompetence. The person with ADHD will be just as inaccurate and
unfair as the outside observer is. And their remedies may at times be
as misguided and fruitless as those of the other people trying to
help them "improve their character." An adult with ADHD is likely to
tell themselves to "try harder" as ineffectively as a parent does an
ADHD child.

What can you do with this theory? Ned Hallowell often says that we
need to move from "moral" to "medical" diagnoses. We need to
understand how a disability disconnects what someone knows they
should do (in terms of having "good character") and what they can do,
given having ADHD.

If you live with someone with ADHD, now you know that there may be
more going on than you can guess at. You will acknowledge that you
don't really know if someone is "not motivated." With understanding,
it is more likely than you will think that the ADHD person is trying
as hard as they can, and a real disability is getting their way. Even
if you can't see that, you know that your guess is not as certain as
it feels to you.

You may also notice that the ADHD person is equally at a loss to
explain their own behavior to themselves. If they tell you that they
are just lazy, you could remind them that they are only guessing too.
Maybe you will see the evidence that their attribution is not true.
Give them some alternate hypotheses to explain their behavior.

Unfortunately, the human heart is easily fooled into broad judgments
of our fellow humans. More sadly, the heart can become addicted to
self-righteous indignation over the moral failures of others. We are
even too unforgiving of ourselves sometimes. Try to give yourself and
others a chance to see alternative possibilities. Focus on strengths,
keep it specific when looking at flaws, and don't jump to
conclusions. You'll be surprised at what you can do with a little
home-cooked, demystified psychological understanding.

======== This Week ==========

** New San Francisco Adult ADD Success Group! **

This new support group will launch on September 23rd and will be held
on the 3rd Monday of the months moving forward. Peers will share
successes and challenges and in the process learn new skills and
strategies to manage ADD at home, in the workplace and in
relationships. The first meeting is an opportunity to meet other
attendees/members and provide input on the topics to be covered in
subsequent meetings. Members are invited to take an active part in
selecting topics, researching and gathering materials. This will be a
structured group, focusing on practical strategies to move forward in
one's life. There will also be some flexibility within the structure
to meet the needs of members. Please join us to create a dynamic
group serving the City of San Francisco!

===== Please Tell Us! =====

Apologies to all who were expecting this in their e-mail Monday
morning, but the long weekend takes a toll on timeliness.

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.

Center of Attention
Newsletter of CHADD of Northern California
Also at: http://www.chaddnorcal.org/newsletter
19 August 2002

CHADD Works to Improve the Lives of People with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder through Education, Advocacy,
and Support

===== In This Issue =====

About the Newsletter
Calendar of Events
Feature Article: How a Support Group Can Help
Please Tell Us

===== About the Newsletter =====

The Center of Attention is CHADD of Northern California's bi-weekly
newsletter. The newsletter is designed to keep you up to date with
CHADD of Northern California's activities and updates in the field.
It's a step toward bringing the members closer together.

======== Calendar of Events ==========
============================
Contra Costa - 8/21/2002, Wed. 7-9 pm
Walnut Creek Adult General Support Meeting -- Ongoing, confidential
support groups for Adults with ADHD
Kaiser Mental Health, Walnut Creek - Contact: Donna Love: 925-687-4324
============================
Online - 8/28/2002, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Patricia Quinn, MD - Girls, Women, Hormones and AD/HD --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
============================
Marin - 8/28/2002, Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Parent Informational Resource and Support Group -- Call First...
30 Catalpa Ave., Mill Valley - Contact: Victoria Vogel & Holly
Seerly: 415-383-6048
============================
Sacramento - 9/3/2002, Tues. 6:45 p.m.; 7-9 pm
Social Skills -- More details later...
Sutter Center for Psychiatry, Sacramento - Contact: Greater
Sacramento CHADD: 916-552-1557
============================
Santa Clara - 9/4/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Presentation -- TBA
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
============================
Sonoma - 9/4/2002, Wed. 7 - 9 pm
Sharing and Support.  -- Bring your concerns, questions and
experiences.  Everyone is welcome, including parents, spouses and
significant others -- diagnosed and undiagnosed.
Kaiser Hospital Building, Santa Rosa - Contact: Sonoma Warmline: 707-765-4863
============================
San Francisco - 9/4/2002, Wed. 7:30pm
Women's ADD Support Group -- Please Call Lynn to confirm times and
locations before attending.
CPMC Davies Campus, San Francisco - Contact: Lynn: 415-621-1078
============================
San Francisco - 9/14/2002, Sat. 9:00a.m.-12:30p.m
Dr. Ruth Serepca  - "Executive Processing in Children:
Relationship to Learning and Social Functioning" -- Sponsored by the
International Dyslexia Association. Pre-Registration is Required.
UCSF Conference Center, Laurel Heights, San Francisco - Contact:
International Dyslexia Association: 650-328-7667 or visit
http://www.interdys.org
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Marin - 9/17/2002, Tues. 7-9pm
Drop in Support Group -- for Adults with ADHD and Significant Others
Marin Community Mental Health, Greenbrae - Contact: Beverlee: 415-789-9464
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Online - 9/18/2002, Wed. 6-8:00 PM PST
Ned Hallowell, MD - The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness --
CHADD Online Chat, Internet - Contact: Message Line: 510-291-2950
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Santa Clara - 9/18/2002, Wed. Reg: 7pm, Meet 7:30pm
Silicon Valley Adult, Parent and Spouse Support Groups -- Separate
peer-facilitated groups let you share struggles and strategies with
each other. Includes video.
Friends Meeting House, Palo Alto - Contact: Silicon Valley Warmline:
650-949-5472
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===== Feature Article ======

How A Support Group Can Help

By Lew Mills, PhD, MFT; Chapter coordinator and a psychotherapist for
Adults with ADHD in San Francisco.

Maybe you already have someone to talk to about medication. You may
also have a therapist to help you learn new ways of coping with your
or your child's ADHD. What would you want to use a support group for?
How much can a person just talk about these things?

Of course a support group may have been your starting point to set up
some of those resources above. You may have asked others for
suggestions about doctors, school issues and so on. A support group
can even be a source of information on more arcane issues, such as
figuring out what's the latest time of day for taking a medication
without ruining that night's sleep. Often a support group is the
first place you begin to put these things in order. But there is more
to what a support group can do than just sharing information.

Think about a support group in terms of these two different
functions: information and support. For the first -- though a lot of
information is available on the internet now -- none of it has the
interactivity of asking peers and following up with questions to
really develop a first hand sense of how things are in the real
world. Even seasoned hands at ADHD will learn things about the
practical matters of ADHD management. The second, and sometimes
overlooked, function of a support group is the support you get from
and give to others.

Many people do not know how important this support can be. Even when
you are fairly swamped, you can tell yourself that you are getting
along OK. And if you do not need some new information, you may not
see a need for a support group. It may seem that just going and
hearing about other people in the same situation as you doesn't solve
any problems. Maybe it will just make you feel worse, you wonder.

But support goes a lot farther than just blowing of some steam about
your frustrations. Support can have real effects on your well-being,
not just on your "feeling better." Studies of people with very
serious medical problems showed that being in a support group
actually improved their health and chances of survival. That is no
small matter. The mechanisms by which it helps are subtle but
powerful.

One of the key elements of attending a support group is realizing
that what you are going through is not so lonely and unique as it
feels. Many others have been in these same places. Some aspects of
what you are experiencing are universal. Breaking out of your
isolation and connecting with others can be a huge relief.

Support also means that there are others who understand what you are
going through and care about your success. Even though the people at
a support group start out as strangers, they will be involved in your
story just as you will be in theirs. A shared burden feels much
lighter. Furthermore, when you can help others, it empowers you. You
will have been having an experience of not being able to control a
lot of things. Being able to give to others is an area where you do
have a lot of control, and this can be an antidote to some of the
frustration you may experience.

It could be that you have been burdening your friends with some of
your struggles and eventually it starts to feel unequal or that they
are losing interest. Also, they may not understand, even though they
would like to. You can use the support group to lighten up the load
on your other friendships and be in a more equal give-and-take with
your support group peers.

Sometimes it is uncomfortable or intimidating talking about your
troubles with a group of people you have only recently met. But the
mutual support, not to mention the information sharing, can be an
invaluable aide in starting to get your life back on track. Don't
miss out on this opportunity!

See the CHADD schedule for a support group that meets near you. If
there are none, think about starting one. Contact us to find out how
(CHADD_Dimples@...).

===== Please Tell Us! =====

We thank members for their responses to the Newsletter. Any comments,
suggestions, or criticisms will be greatly appreciated. Please
continue to help us make this newsletter more beneficial to you all.

We also invite readers to share their experiences with us and other
members. Please feel free to write to us about anything that you
would like to see published.

You can e-mail your comments to us at CHADD_Dimples@....
Simply replying to this e-mail will also send your message to the
right place.