A personal experience

I thought I would share an experience we had during the early stages of diagnosis and medications.

When my son was four, we went to a professional private counseling organization and he was tested for about 3-4 hours on everything from IQ to specific tests used for early detection of various things.  This is where he was diagnosed with ADHD.  Usually, that diagnosis is not determined until about 6, however, he tested with many signs.  So then, we were advised to go to a pediatric psychiatrist.    The counselor thought it would be necessary to get another opinion and help if my son was to ever succeed. 
 We finally met with the pediatric psychiatrist.  I must say I wasn't impressed.  She had made up her mind before we ever me her on what she was going to tell us to do.  She gave us free medicine.   Okay, we were so torn up about her hasty appointment.  Never even thought about using drugs for our four year old son.   Our son was hyper, but obedient.  He was excited about life and jumped up and down, but still waited in line.  Upon expressing these truths to her.  I guess it showed our doubt in her treatment, because, that is when she told us the biggest lie we ever heard!
                  "Your son will never learn anything without being medicated"  
We did return to her office, why I am not sure.  We did try one small dose of something because we were just overwhelmed and wanted to help our son.  After taking the medicine, my son went into a fetal position and stayed there the rest of the day.  I think we tried 3 days and then something in me broke.  I realized that I am the parent.  I could not accept negative comments from arrogant doctors who thought  their way was the only way!  I chose to believe that my son could learn.  I knew he was learning new things everyday.  He may not have looked or acted like everyone else, but he didn't need medication at that time to assist his learning.   


Decisions have to be made.  We chose to go without medication for our son for several more years, actually about 8 more years.   Yes, he was a hyper, but he had a brother 19 months older and they were all boy.  That's normal!  The biggest problem I had was keeping red food coloring and sugar away from him.  Hawiian Punch and Brownies were the favorite snack at a group class he went to on Wednesday nights!   UGH!!  I have videos of him literally bouncing all over my couch for an hour after class. 

Decision making for your child on treatment while you are in turmoil over what would be right is so difficult.  Seek wisdom from others whom you trust, but know this.   You were chosen to be the parent, you know what feels right for the moment.  Go with that.  You will know when things change and something else is needed.