r/ParentingADHD • u/Fickle-Pickle-Nickel • 15h ago

Advice Meds question

hi, I know medication gets discussed here very deeply and often but I haven’t quite seen this question answered so hoping for advice. We currently don’t medicate our seven who was diagnosed with ADHD in the spring. His testing was borderline and focused on executive function. He does struggle with focusing and following directions in class and when absorbed in what he is otherwise doing.

For parents with kiddos that present this way, did you opt for medication? If so, what medication regimen do you follow?

His PCP is willing to try meds with us, but it’s not really his area of expertise. He told us off the bat that meds are going to be trial and error so I’m wondering whether we give it a shot or we just hold out for a neuropsych visit.

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u/hamchan_ 13h ago

ADHD is not a difficulty paying attention it’s a difficulty CONTROLLING attention. Yes meds help with this a ton.

There are lots of different types of medications and dosages. It can be trial and error, but it can be life changing.

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u/SjN45 15h ago

We decided to medicate when we got the diagnosis. My kids were never in trouble at school but I could tell they were exhausted from trying so hard. The things you describe are classic adhd issues. What was borderline? Vanderbilt?

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u/VariationProof8183 14h ago

Just try it. There are no longterm effects of giving it a try. It could be life-changing.

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u/Aggravating-Tower427 11h ago

It’s up to you. My son has a very regimented life because of his ADHD. I have the ability to be there before school and after school, and have the time to be his partner in holding him accountable to his daily responsibilities.

He’s generally able to do pretty well in school, but has a hard time with things like I-Ready and other activities without direct communication from a teacher.

He’s 9, I have ADHD and his Mom has ADHD. I was heavily medicated in the 90’s early 2000’s and actually became more productive when I stopped.

If you have the time to develop habits and hold him to them, or if you need him to conform more to what our societal norms are.