Hi! I'm new.

[Sadiewatermelon]

My daughter was diagnosed a year ago with ADHD and Tourette's Syndrome. We've tried to go without medication, but her behavior keeps getting worse at home. In school she does fine grade wise, but the teacher says she doesn't seem to be paying attention a lot of the time. She says she'll ask my daughter a question and she needs time before she answers, but she usually has the right answer. She has been so defiant lately. We are just at the end of our ropes. We were really trying to avoid medication, but I feel like we have no other choice at this time if we want our family to stay healthy. I also keep being warned by my daughters teacher that 3rd grade gets very tough and she worries my daughter will fall behind then even though she's doing ok now. Does anyone have any insight on our situation?

[pjv2001]

Hi! When I first got my adopted daughter and her parents were trying to reunify, they didn’t want her on meds and I agreed. We tried working with her on behavior, but it wasn’t until she started on medication that we saw a huge difference. She is so much happier! She said it’s like having bugs buzzing around your brain when she’s not on her meds.

[dianam123]

Hello,my son is 8 and have same issues,

Teachers already told us he will be retained this year(3rd)..and I actually want that. He is so behind I constantly worry for next year's to come..

We are not fan of medication but I feel there is no onther way..husband does not want medication but of course dad's don't deal with all like mom's do..

It's so hard,I love my child I don't know if I want a healthy child with focus problems and bad grades,or an unhealthy always sick child(from medication)but excellent in school!

I understand you!!

[Sadiewatermelon in reply to dianam123]

Yes, I agree. My thinking is if we start meds and see no benefit or she doesn't like the way they make her feel we can always stop them. That's how I'm getting through this terrifying decision. You always worry about long term side affects etc. But I also think what if I'm denying my child something that could make her life easier? It's so hard to know what the right answer is.

[floydwhite]

the teacher is right about the workload. you daughter is bright and able to do well. 3rd grade is a faster pace and the children began to mature socially. if you notice a decline after the first month or so medication may be necessary. another option may be to try medication over summer break. see if it helps. good luck

[floydwhite]

my son has been on meds for almost 6 years. We have had to change and do some trial and error. I do not regret putting him on medication. he is a honor roll student. he is able to make good decisions throughout the day. he participate in several activities. without the meds i would be one of the parents worrying about suspension and outbursts.