ADHD / ADD Support Group

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD) are more common than you might think. It is a syndrome that exhibits symptoms such as hyperactivity, forgetfulness, mood shifts, poor impulse control, and distractibility. Join others who suffer from these conditions and share your experiences.

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Testing What ifs

deleted_user
deleted_user
My grandson's doctor diagnosed him with ADHD after looking at the questionaire from school and wanted to put him on meds. I am not comfortable with putting him on meds based on the answers to a few questions. What if they were wrong? What if he doesn't have ADHD? What if it is something else? What if he started meds and really did not need them. After all he is only 5 yrs old. The doctor gave us a referal to a clinic that does testing for ADHD and other LD. The problem is that it will be several months before he can even get an appointment they stay so booked up. By then he will be better or much worse. School could test but I wonder how vaid these test could be? Testing would be done by LD teachers. And since he is 5 what kind of testing can be done? I have to make this better for him and now not it months. By then what if the damage has been done and he becomes the "bad child" that they treat him like at school?
deleted_user
deleted_user
I believe the school can test for possible LD's, but not specific ones like ADHD (unless things have changed in 3 years). I had to have my son tested by an outside psychologist because the school saw no issue. Finally, we had a diagnosis, and the school still would not acknowledge a problem. We lost 4 years fighting the school district, and finally, I hired an advocate, and things began to move...gee, miraculously, he's ADHD and needs some accomodations...go figure. Cost me $2500.00 out of pocket. I was advised to sue the district, but I also work for that district, so that could bring on a whole new set of issues...single mom needs her job...good luck.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Playing Devil's Advocate, what if they are correct? My son started meds at six. I was very undecided about allowing him to start meds, but...something needed to change. He was hyperactive and disruptive in the classroom, couldn't learn very much because he couldn't focus enough. So we tried the meds, and he responded to them. Some side effects? Yes. Was it worth it to see him succeed at school. Most definately! But I agree with the outside testing idea. We worked with numerous Doctor's and Psych. and got an official diagnosis-Gifted with ADHD.
ADHD or any learning difference is a long road that must be approached with an open mind and patience. Good Luck on your journey!
deleted_user
deleted_user
it's a wait and see situation. What ever meds he gets put on, watch him VERY closely and talk to his teacher and have her watch him at school also. The first 2 meds my grandson was on didn't last more than a week before I took him off. When he was put on adderal, the change was like night and day. You may have to try several meds before you find one that works. No med is a total cure all, and other help may be needed, such as counsling. Doing nothing can do more harm than good. Good luck to you!
deleted_user
deleted_user
One more thing, unless the school is trained in these kid of disabilities, they really can't test your child correctly. Once in a blue moon you might get a teacher who cares enough to get extra training . The school itself doesn't have the budget for this kind of testing.
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