Children are naturally energetic, impulsive and hyperactive. Many children struggle with sitting still for hours at a time at school, completing homework, paying attention to instructions and acting in a socially appropriate way. However, for children with ADHD, those tasks can be an overwhelming struggle every day. Treatment for ADHD includes psychotherapy, family therapy, medication, social skills training and parent skills training. Some parents would rather focus on non-medication treatments first to see if their children's symptoms decrease.
Realistic Expectations
ADHD medication won't solve all the child's problems, and it can create problems if the child experiences negative side effects. The medication will help reduce the symptoms of ADHD, such as impulsivity and trouble concentrating. The medication won't enable your child to never forget his homework or help with social awkwardness. If parents are looking for something more comprehensive, therapy would address of all of these issues.
Trial and Error
It can take multiple attempts before a child and her parent find the right match. Each medication works differently with each child. One child might have severe negative side effects when taking Ritalin, whereas another child might experience no side effects. It could take a lot of time and effort before figuring out the right dosage and medication. Also, as the child grows and ages, the medication will have to be adjusted.
Side Effects
There are two main types of medication for ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants. They both come with their own possible side effects. According to HelpGuide, some common side effects of stimulant medications include issues with sleeping and eating, feeling restless, headaches, irritability or depression, stomach upset and dizziness. Some common side effects of Strattera, which is the only non-stimulant approved by the FDA, include stomach issues, drowsiness, headaches, dizziness and irritability. Some children and their parents can't find a medication that doesn't cause side effects that impact the child on a regular basis.
There are other concerns with stimulants. They can increase aggression and hostility, and there is a potential for abuse. Some children and teens who take this medication take more than they should or sell the pills to friends. The Mayo Clinic reports that, although rare, there have been sudden deaths of children, who were taking stimulant medication, because of heart problems.
Other Treatments
Sometimes doctors and mental health professionals tell parents that their children need medication for ADHD without giving them information on other forms of treatment. It might seem like the only treatment for children with this disorder, but it's not. There are plenty of treatment options that don't include medication such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is a form of psychotherapy. Parents may feel pushed into medicating their children; however, some want to avoid the side effects and teach their child healthy coping mechanisms without relying on medication. Some parents decide to leave medication as a last option to treatment.
