Trying to figure this all out.....

[Cardosoc]

Hello, we are currently going through assessments, therapist, behaviorist etc. We have known my 4 1/2 year old son has been struggling for 2 years, and have been asking doctors for help and suggestions. Of course, many respond he is just a hyper young boy, he needs more discipline or you need to keep him busy etc. my husband and I have been very frustrated and heart broken during this process and are truly learning how inconsiderate people can be. I am actually an early child special education teacher and having that background and knowledge has been nothing but more stressful our son does not have an ADHD label yet but it has been mentioned. He is incredible, so intelligent and fun. He also goes through his difficult cycles, hyper focused on certain toys and activities, very active, easyily agitataed and can be very impulsive and aggressive. Regulating his emotions seems impossible right now, man he can love but also can become very angry. Does this sound familiar to anyone? Hoping to find support, humor and suggestions here during this difficult process/time.

[Crunchby]

Yep. You know somethings up Mom. I wish I was as on top of it as you are. Mine was tossed out of preschool at 4. She was very agressive. Keep doing what you're doing. Assess, assess and assess. Get answers, get meds, get him help. Follow your instincts and never stop advocating for him. It's a long road, but seems like your eyes are wide open. Good luck. Let us know how the assessments go. There is also a genetic test that will look for "off" enzymes that contribute to low dopamine, etc.

[Cardosoc in reply to Crunchby]

Thank you so much for your response. I agree being an advocate for him is what is needed especially at his young age. I’m just feeling so mentally and physically drained already. I am going to do some research on the genetic testing you suggested and thank you!

[christelferrer]

Sounds like you are at the beginning of the marathon. It will be painfull, long but rewarding because you chose to be aware and not ignore it. So already bravo, you are doing the right thing.

I have always known something was up with my son and he was finally diagnosed at 6. I do it all: meds (changed 4 times), individual therapy, family therapy, IEP, gifted and talented school program, sports, play dates are on me (since nobody invites him). It is exhausting but I have see HUGE progress in 6 months. It is not immediate and i still have outbursts on the regular but they are shorter.

Hang I there, you can do it, be strong.

[Cardosoc in reply to christelferrer]

Thank you so much for your kind words. Bravo to you and getting all support for your son. My little guy is currently on tenex and a very small dose of Prozac . I feel horrible giving him meds already but when he is screaming” help me” during one of his episodes my husband and felt it was time. We start aren’t sure if it’s helping. He is getting a behavior assessment tomorrow. Hoping we qualify it sounds like a great program that will provide him and us therapy. We recently started horseback riding too. My eyes teared when you said you are in charge of play dates because no one ever invites your son. That’s one of my biggest fears and I already see him sometimes struggling with his peers. Wishing you the best momma, keep up the great work!

[christelferrer in reply to Cardosoc]

Hello,

You will obviously have ups and downs and I really had a hard time accepting people I thought as friends turning their back because of his behavior. It is very difficult but there is no way around. You will see very fast who are your friends and who was around you for convenience :-).

Give each meds combo a try of 2 weeks, take notes and asses. Most of the meds won't take their full effect until then. Please find a doctor that you trust and who is willing to listen not only prescribe stuff. I am so thankful to have found mine. Don't feel bad (I felt awful too) about giving medications, I tried it all before, I failed. It is the combo of ALL methods that works. Horse riding is excellent, ADHD kids love the contact with animals and individual sports (they don't do good in team generally speaking)

Another thing that is helpful: if you go on CHADD.org, you may find some support group in your area. These are great because all parents get what is going on and understand without judging or giving you unwanted miraculous solutions (like you had not tried yet :-)). Plus this is a great way to get great tips on several topics such as best summer camps, how to address specific situations, tips on diet, etc.

Hang in there, you got this, I can tell! Stay on this excellent path and you will see a difference in the upcoming months. Very important: stay positive and celebrate ALL small victories. Wishing you the best too!