Ritalin la?!
Question: my 7yr old son was just diagnosed with ADHA the doc prescribed ritalin la im looking for anyone that has delt with this drug or has any advice from being in a similar situation. I have not yet started giving him the medication im trying to do as much research as possible. Anyone with advice please help. Please no comments about im trying to drug my child because thats why im on here and doing as much research as possible im trying to help my son he has alot of problems in school and at home and i want to do what is best for him. Thank you
Answers: my 7yr old son was just diagnosed with ADHA the doc prescribed ritalin la im looking for anyone that has delt with this drug or has any advice from being in a similar situation. I have not yet started giving him the medication im trying to do as much research as possible. Anyone with advice please help. Please no comments about im trying to drug my child because thats why im on here and doing as much research as possible im trying to help my son he has alot of problems in school and at home and i want to do what is best for him. Thank you
I would assume that he is having trouble in school b/c of the symptoms. Have the teacher(s) complete a psychometric survey called "vanderbilt" which rates ADHD symptoms (if you haven't done so already). Once you have the survey rating his symptoms.....give it to him for 2 weeks and see what happens.
Did you know that kids who take Ritalin for ADHD from a young age have higher self esteem and are less likely to use drugs than a child who wasn't treated for ADHD.
If giving your child a stimulant is what you are worried about ask your doctor about Strattera, it is a new ADHD medication that is not a stimulant, some people also report that it helps stabilize their mood.
I was against medicating my son at that age to, but I also got tired of the behaviors and symptoms, so I gave it a shot. When he started the medication (concerta) which is Ritalin extended release....his grades shot up dramatically especially in reading...and I stopped getting calls from the school, an he seemed more mature at home.
If you don't do something he will end up with low self esteem, because ADHD have trouble with impulse control and that leads to nagging and or humilation or getting introuble just because he has a brain disorder. All of that negativity adds up!
Basically you are withholding treatment for him.
Maybe getting a second opinion would be a good idea especially if the one prescribing is not a psychiatrist or a nurse practitioner who speacizes in children and ADHD.
Needs a father figure in his life.
Needs a stable home life and a disciplined routine.
Needs encouragement and to be given some responsibilities.
Needs a structured environment with limits on tv and video games.
Needs to participate in sports. Also extracurriculars such as karate or yoga, depending on what he's interested in.
I would also encourage you to slow down. Read with him.
Reduce the stress in your own life that he may be feeding off.
I think drugs are a last resort.
What test determined he had ADD? Easily distracted and such?
Maybe he could have some outlets to express himself such as art.
Good luck. It's hard raising kids.