Pros and cons for ADHD medication

This is always a very interesting topic. ADHD is diagnosed very simply through parent and often teacher questionnaires about observed child behaviour. At age 7, as already mentioned, it can be difficult to differentiate between normal inattentive behaviour and pathologising, My other concern here is that usually with ADHD, even topics of high interest fail to hold a child’s attention when ADHD is present and so if their child can focus when engaged in a topic, it might simply be about the school looking to adjust their methods of engagement for their child. In saying that, parents know their child best and can support the Paediatric diagnosis. There are a lot of cons around change in appetite, sleep and mood so careful monitoring with a specialist is key.

At age 7, a lot of boys are not developmentally ready for the tedium of sitting still for long periods in class. In our case, my son's teacher suggested we have him tested for ADHD but the paediatrician advised us that he was simply an active 7 year old boy and that he would soon settle down without medication. In his case, this was true and his "hyperactive" spurts soon disappeared as his cognitive maturity increased and he was able to sit still and concentrate for longer periods.

Kids who have inattentive type ADHD may be less noticeable in a classroom, but they can find school as much of a struggle as they may be easily distracted and may not be able to follow a set of instructions.

I know of friends who have used a combination of medication and other therapies such as occupational therapy, social skills workshops, and play therapy to manage their child's ADHD. Another family prefer using more natural supplements and swear by a good quality Omega-3 oil to assist with concentration and brain function. They also include meditation and mindfulness practices into their daily routine and avoid eating processed sugars and high carbohydrate foods.

Whatever your friend decides to do, I think that when properly supervised under the guidance of a medical professional, ADHD medication can be life-changing for kids who are wired differently, but there are also other ways of trying to manage the condition without medication first if that is their preference.

I agree, I think that with the right supervision and assistance from a pediatrician, it can be life-changing, for all involved. The school hopefully has good resources for him, too, should he choose to medicate and make the transition. While I do think it's a great choice, it's important to keep in mind the learning curve once the medications start. I have seen students have a bit of ups and downs before getting the dosage right. Patience and support are two very important things and I wish your friend's family the best during this time.

I am someone who was originally against ADHD medications but have come full circle. I still believe that ADHD is over diagnosed and some kids are medicated when the issues are parenting-related - but i have now seen first-hand how medications can improve a child's life.

One of my boys has ADHD and another condition that means he does not feel pain normally. This meant a of injuries as he was impulsive and would act without thinking. Medications have been wonderful for him. He is much safer in his behaviour, doing better in school and has way more friends than he did before. The only side effect we have noted is that he is less hungry through the day but he has a big breakfast and a big dinner and that is keeping his weight stable.

Definitely seek advice from a pediatrician but for the right kids - medications can be a real blessing.