Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects approximately eight percent of children in the United States. Its symptoms have been described for more than 150 years with phrases like "impulsive insanity" and "mad idiots" and as recent as the 1960s was called "minimal brain dysfunction." It was not until 1987 that the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders III – Revised changed the name to the current Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

ADHD causes difficulties for children and adolescents in their ability to function in school and in society. The excess activity, poorly sustained attention and difficulty with impulse control make completing school work more difficult and can contribute to low self esteem and trouble getting along with others. Symptoms can disrupt the classroom, cause social isolation and even increase dangerous and risk-taking behaviors. There is significant co-morbidity with ADHD including Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders and Learning Disabilities which complicate presentation and treatment of ADHD.

Treatment approaches for Attention Deficit hyperactivity Disorder have included medications, both stimulants and non-stimulants, as well as psychosocial and behavioral interventions. However, controversy exists. The issues of clinical efficacy versus prescribing medications to developing children and adolescents and the increase in poly-pharmacy in young people put the prescribing physician in a challenging position. Additionally, issues of Cognitive Enhancement have added to the debate in the use of medications, some of which are used to treat ADHD.

The Texas Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry’s Annual Convention and Scientific Program July 20-22, 2012 in Arlington, Texas will address some of the challenges of working with children and adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This CME activity is accredited for a maximum of 8 hours of category I credits, including 1 hour of credit for education in medical ethics and/or professional responsibility.

Texas Society of Psychiatric Physicians

56th Annual Convention & Scientific Program

November 9-11, 2012

This year’s CME Program "Embracing the Future in Psychiatric Practice" offers 11 hours of Category 1 Credit and will feature the most up-to-date, evidence based data that can be translated into clinical practice. Topics will include: Substance Use Disorders; Evidence Based Treatment of PTSD; Update in Internal Medicine for Psychiatrists; Healthcare Legislation; Social Media: Effects on Patients, Physicians and the Practice of Medicine and Ethics and Nuance in Competency Assessment.

Exhibit Display is available and anticipated to sell out quickly. To confirm your space, please complete the attached Exhibit Display Application Form.

For Meeting Registration please click here.

The 2011 Texas Legislative Session

The Texas Legislature convened in January facing an unprecedented $26 billion revenue shortfall. That problem was the backdrop for virtually all public policy discussions which took place in Austin during the 82^nd Regular Session. Bill filings were down 20 percent in 2011, relative to 2009, chiefly due to the funding shortfall. The members also wrestled with congressional and legislative redistricting, which takes place after each decennial census, and is generally regarded as the most contentious activity the legislature can consider.

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