Rx -vs- behavorial/cognition intervention

[tdinh2]

(this msg was posted under a wrong category so srry to those folks who have to read it again under this category =o)

Seems to me that medication and some form of behavioral/cognitive intervention are the most effective forms to treatment ADHD. However, I also heard some opinions about situations where parents believe that some children are prescibed quite powerful drugs. Which method is best to treat ADHD base on your knowledge about ADHD?

I, personally believe both methods are a good way to treat ADHD. But I'd prefer behavioral intervention as the first choice if I have to choose...but I'm still indecisive about this....what do you think?

[sierra]

In my opinion they go hand in hand. The meds make it possible to focus on behavior modification. The goal if possible is for the kid to develop skills and compensations that mean medications aren't necessary. Sometimes it's not possible. But it's what we try to shoot for in this house.

[eaccae]

Well - whether you go the route of medication or natural alternatives - behavior modification is necessary as well. It's the combo that has great success. If you depend soley on medication/supplements you are still not working on the whole problem. Same with behavior modification - adhd is neurological. Medication or natural supplements & diet help to regulate the function of the neurological gateways - so if you are just relying on behavior modification alone - it's not going to work alone either.

Meds/supplements & diet don't "fix" or teach appropriate behavior. Behavior modification can't make a child less impulsive, focus better, or lower their hyperactivity. It is the combination of treatments that is the most effective.