Why ADHD Is Not A Psychiatric Disorder Or Brain Disease with Dr. George Papanicolaou

Nov 2, 2020

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. George Papanicolaou, a board-certified family physician and functional medicine expert, challenges the notion of ADHD as merely a psychiatric disorder. He emphasizes the importance of understanding underlying causes over just treating symptoms. The conversation touches on holistic approaches, including the impact of nutrition and genetics, and successful case studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of targeted interventions like dietary changes and coaching. Papanicolaou also explores the role of meditation in supporting brain health for those with ADHD.

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INSIGHT

ADHD Increase

ADHD is increasing, and traditional approaches may be inadequate.
We're seeing a rise in learning disabilities and autism, possibly linked to environmental factors and the nature of our modern world.

INSIGHT

ADHD Misdiagnosis

ADHD is often misdiagnosed as a psychiatric disorder.
Most psychiatric disorders are rooted in biological factors affecting the brain.

ANECDOTE

The Teacher's Story

A 40-year-old teacher, overwhelmed and anxious, was diagnosed with ADHD.
After diagnosis and treatment, including medication and lifestyle changes, she thrived.

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Why ADHD Is Not A Psychiatric Disorder Or Brain Disease | This episode is brought to you by Paleovalley and Farmacy

The rates of attention deficit disorder (ADD), today referred to as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have skyrocketed in recent years. But what is ADHD? ADHD is just a name we give to people who share a collection of symptoms: They can’t focus or pay attention, they’re inattentive, and they are hyperactive. These are symptoms. So, what are the causes?

In this episode, Dr. Hyman sits down with Dr. George Papaicolaou to discuss the common drivers of ADHD, and why it is so important to identify and treat its causes, rather than its symptoms. They also share specific cases in which they have treated patients for ADHD.

George Papanicolaou is a graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and is Board Certified in Family Medicine from Abington Memorial Hospital. He is also an Institute for Functional Medicine Practitioner. Upon graduation from his residency he joined the Indian Health Service. He worked on the Navajo reservation for 4 years at the Chinle Comprehensive Medical Facility where he served as the Outpatient Department Coordinator. In 2000, he founded Cornerstone Family Practice in Rowley, MA. He practiced with a philosophy centered on personal relationships and treating the whole person, not just not the disease. He called that philosophy “Whole Life Wellness”. Over time as the healthcare system made it harder for patients to receive this kind of personal care Dr. Papanicolaou decided a change was needed. He began training in Functional Medicine through the Institute of Functional Medicine. In 2015, he established Cornerstone Personal Health – a practice dedicated entirely to Functional Medicine. Dr. Papanicolaou to join The UltraWellness Center in 2017.

This episode is sponsored by Paleovalley and Farmacy.

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In this conversation, Dr. Hyman and Dr. Papanicolaou discuss: