Diagnosis

[EllenR]

In reading some of the posts, I've seen where neuropsychiatrists are making the diagnosis. Is this typical?

With my 7yo son, the ped sent us to a psychologist. She administered the Wexler test After the 6 hours of testing, we were told he is ADHD. IMO, he is on the mild end since he can focus for 20 minutes, will sit and watch TV/movie without moving almost, and listen to books til your throat gives out. A mother at my work who's adult son was ADD said 20 min is great. PD also made the honor roll at his school (Catholic school).

I've struggled with the diagnosis but my husband has no problem with it. We also weren't informed of any alternatives to meds but right now he's just getting behavior mod with the psychologist. I'm going to check on the book 12 Things... and have a look at the Feingold Diet.

The only push to meds I've really seen is from the school's principal and that was only one time. His teacher this year is absolutely fantastic!

Sorry to go on but there's so much I've seen and learned so much on this site that it just adds to my questions and thoughts.

[eaccae]

EllenR

The natural alternatives board has a lot of information on supplements and other things. Alot of people have had great succes with the Feingold Diet and supplements including magnesium, omega3s and b vitamins. We are using meds so I am not well versed in it but the people on the board could probably answer any question you might have - as to where to start etc. Our son can't sit through one movie. Even on the computer it is kind of hysterical. He stands and wiggles - doing almost a dance while he's on it and every five minutes or so he has to run around like a maniac and then go back to it. Don't struggle too much with the diagnosis! It is more prevelant than you would think. Sounds like you have a good school who is willing to work with you and not push you towards anything!

[Jorgy]

Sitting still watching TV or playing electronic games is not unusual with ADHD kids. It is called hyperfocusing. When he is watching TV try to get his attention. Is it easy or do you have to actually go up and touch him? Welcome to the boards and to ADHD. God Bless, Sue

[EllenR]

I'll definitely check out the alternatives board and see what's there. I've found that sometimes trying to figure out which supplement to use can be mighty confusing.

For the TV -- it's true, to get his attention, it's best to stand in front of the TV ;D. There are certainly times when I have no problem with the dx and others when I just am not sure.

There are also those times when it seems like I do nothing but fuss/yell/discipline him. For those times, I'm trying to do a reality check and, if it's more my mood than him, to relax and just enjoy him being himself.