When it comes to parenting a child with ADHD and similar challenges, it’s time to put aside the judgment and foster a supportive community among ourselves. For families navigating the complexities of raising a child with special needs, every day can feel like a battle. Some of us may deal with children who exhibit explosive behaviors, struggle with communication, or have difficulty with basic tasks. Regardless of the unique challenges we face, we are all in this together.
Choosing to medicate your child can be one of the most daunting decisions a parent can make. The daily reality of raising a child, whether on medication or not, can be exhausting. Here’s a glimpse into the experiences of those who have opted for medication.
The Pharmacy Dilemma
If you’ve never had to hand a paper prescription to a pharmacist for your child’s medication, you might not fully grasp the frustration that often accompanies this essential task. Due to the regulations surrounding our child’s medication, refills can only be processed one day before the current prescription runs out. This strict policy becomes particularly challenging when traveling, especially when family lives far away. During one summer visit to his grandparents, we faced a six-hour ordeal of phone calls to multiple pharmacies and insurance companies just to secure his medication.
And, of course, the pharmacy often seems to run out of your child’s specific medication or dosage right when you need it most. This can lead to days, or even weeks, of waiting, all while managing a child prone to outbursts and a lack of focus without their medication. As parents, we must adhere to pharmacy policies, which can lead to distress for our children as they come off their medication. The cycle can feel never-ending.
Facing Judgment
Expect to encounter judgment from schools, family members, and even friends. But remember, no one knows your child better than you. If your child faces behavioral challenges, prepare yourself: the journey can get messy. Parenting itself is a demanding job, but raising a child whose reactions to disappointment are extreme can feel like an uphill battle. We simply don’t have the luxury of dwelling on the opinions of others, no matter how plentiful they may be.
It’s crucial to remind ourselves that our child’s medication is prescribed for valid reasons, enhancing their ability to function. Dismissing the choices we make for our kids as mere excuses for poor parenting is misguided. We have spent countless hours researching and praying over this decision. Ultimately, if medication helps our child manage their focus or anxiety, then it’s a choice we stand by, regardless of what others think.
The Positive Impact of Medication
While some critics may generalize the use of medication, it’s important to acknowledge that for many children, it serves as a vital tool. As a former member of the “I would never medicate my child” group, I can share that the dynamics of our lives shifted dramatically once we decided to try medication for our son, who has been diagnosed with ADHD, GAD, SPD, and ODD. Prior to medication, he struggled to complete tasks, often resorting to physical aggression and frustration.
After implementing medication, we saw a remarkable change. He was able to engage in sports, succeed academically, and form friendships—milestones he had previously struggled to achieve.
When the Medication Wears Off
It’s essential to maintain our child’s personality while they are on medication, allowing them to express themselves freely. However, the moments before the medication kicks in can be the most challenging for us as parents. Mornings often start with a burst of energy that can be overwhelming, leading to resistance over simple tasks and emotional outbursts. Yet, as the medication begins to take effect, we often see our child return to their calm and engaging self.
Unfortunately, the medication journey doesn’t come without its frustrations. Many children have varying sensitivities to medications, necessitating constant adjustments in dosage. This delicate balance can feel like an endless cycle of trial and error, requiring communication with doctors and specialists.
Parenting is a complex journey, especially when it involves children who may be highly intelligent, creative, and at times, unpredictable. While opinions on medication can vary widely, it’s vital that we support each other. The age-old saying, “It takes a village,” rings true; find your community, as they will understand your struggles and triumphs intimately.
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In summary, parenting a child on ADHD medication can be fraught with challenges, but it’s also filled with opportunities for growth and understanding. Embrace your journey, lean on your support network, and remember that you are not alone in this fight.