We went to our local Children’s Hospital last week to get a second opinion on the ADD (ADHD – inattentive) diagnosis of our son. We had him tested through our school district in the late spring which originally led to the diagnosis and to additional insights into his learning issues.

A diagnosis of ADD is not surprising to me because of the running commentary from his teachers all year long and my observations. The toughest part to face is that this is going to be a lifelong struggle for him. The second toughest part to face is that many of the non-medical strategies that are often tried for kids with ADD have not helped my son. He is in a small group classroom setting, he has gotten both verbal and physical (tap on the shoulder) cues and visuals developed by his teacher to teach him to self monitor his focus and energy level. NOTHING has worked or helped.

He has gone to a new summer academic camp and the Director of Admissions observed my son on multiple occasions. He basically summed up my child’s attention level as fluctuating in and out constantly. I have done a tremendous amount of research on ADD and have had conversations with therapists and other parents. I have come to the conclusion that the most effective approach from my son will most likely be a combination of therapy and medicine.

I know we are about to embark on a whole new journey – one that scares the hell out of me — putting my son on prescription medication. I have heard amazing success stories and horrible tragedies. I know that I only feel this journey to a certain level at this point because I am not yet handing a stimulant to my son with a glass of juice to swallow and fundamentally change his chemistry.

In doing this, however, I do KNOW a couple of things: First, my son has pretty significant learning issues and school is very difficult for him. I am considering giving him the medication so that he can be more AVAILABLE to learn and so that he can experience success and develop confidence. Second, it takes time and patience to find the right medication. Everyone’s body chemistry is different and we have to go into this knowing that we will need to give ourselves and the doctor some time to figure out the best approach. Third, my husband and I know our child best. No medical doctor or therapist will ever know our son as well as we know him. We will go into this with our eyes wide open and never stop being his biggest supporter, his advocate and his biggest fan.

I will share with you as well progress on our journey. If you want to hear another family’s perspective and thoughts, please go to www.adhdmomma.blogspot.com (including http://adhdmomma.blogspot.com/2009/07/more-medication-changes.html and http://adhdmomma.blogspot.com/2009/07/guilt-overload.html). Penny is a wonderful writer and gives incredible insights into their journey and shares significant wisdom.

Until next time ….

Karen