Note: My son gave his consent for me to share this account.
The prevalence of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnoses has been increasing, often attributed to various non-medical factors. Reports indicate that some schools may encourage parents to seek diagnoses for their children to enhance their academic performance metrics. Additionally, critics assert that pharmaceutical companies are incentivizing healthcare providers to prescribe medications to children exhibiting mere impatience or minor behavioral issues.
While dietary choices, particularly sugar intake, have been proposed as potential contributors to ADD/ADHD, research has not consistently supported these claims. It is essential to recognize that while some children may be misdiagnosed or improperly treated, there are many who genuinely suffer from ADD/ADHD and require medication for effective management. A significant challenge faced by parents of these children is the societal tendency to assign blame for their children’s learning difficulties.
My son, whom I will refer to as Alex, was diagnosed at age 8 after his teacher raised concerns about his attention span. Although my partner and I hoped that his difficulties were merely a reflection of immaturity, we soon acknowledged the reality of his condition. Alex was not a typical behavior problem; he did not disrupt class or act out at home. However, he was easily distracted and restless, finding solace primarily in watching television or playing video games—common indicators of ADD. Despite his intelligence, his academic performance did not meet our expectations, leading to the implementation of a 504 Plan to provide necessary accommodations, though we often faced obstacles in its execution.
No parent desires to medicate their child, and the decision to begin medication for Alex was not made lightly. However, once we observed the positive impact it had on him, we felt a profound sense of relief. It is important to clarify that medication was not a miraculous solution that transformed him overnight; rather, it was one component of a much larger journey. It took years of dedicated parenting and Alex’s personal growth before he was able to harness his intellectual potential, regardless of whether he was on medication.
Managing Alex’s medication throughout his childhood and teenage years was a continuous challenge. We often had to fine-tune his dosage, addressing instances where he might have been overmedicated, resulting in a lethargic demeanor. As he transitioned into adolescence and experienced significant growth, adjustments were necessary. Unfortunately, during his junior year of high school, we mistakenly consulted a newly recommended psychiatrist who drastically reduced his dosage by nearly 80 percent. This decision had severe repercussions on his academic performance and behavior, a mistake I deeply regret. We hesitated to trust our instincts, which became a valuable lesson.
I am confident in the accuracy of Alex’s ADD diagnosis. Were there areas for improvement in his diet or our parenting approach? Possibly. However, it was clear that his medication had a calming effect on him. Would it have been wise to forgo medication in favor of a strict dietary regimen or behavioral modifications? We felt that delaying treatment would have only prolonged his struggles. ADD is not merely an academic or behavioral issue; it affects the overall quality of life.
Ultimately, maturity has been the most significant factor in Alex’s progress. While some may argue that he would have naturally outgrown his symptoms with time, I believe that his current success is attributable to a combination of medication and personal development. Now at 21 and nearing graduation from college, Alex has learned to manage his ADD, discerning when to take his medication—primarily for academic purposes—and when it might not be necessary. He regularly consults a mental health professional for his prescription, rather than relying on a general practitioner. With the support available at his university, he has transformed into a diligent student. Whether he will continue with medication as an adult is a decision he will make for himself.
To those who dismiss ADD/ADHD as fictitious disorders or attribute them to poor parenting, I would pose this question: If your child were diagnosed with a health condition like asthma or allergies, would you choose to medicate them or wait to see if lifestyle changes might suffice? Would you want to experiment with your child’s well-being while they navigate the challenges of a manageable disorder? We chose to prioritize Alex’s health and happiness.
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Summary:
This article examines the complex decision-making process surrounding the decision to medicate a child diagnosed with ADD. The author shares personal experiences with her son Alex, highlighting the challenges of managing ADD and the importance of finding the right treatment. It emphasizes the role of maturity in managing ADD and addresses common misconceptions about the disorder.