Never had a psychiatrist, Anika, who tested before prescribing. In fact, I asked one
about that and the answer was "I check after prescribing". I've always thought that testing first is the real answer. And, in fact, with mental conditions, because chemistry is so often skewed, it seems logical to me that bloodwork is called for before anything else is done (except where emergency treatment is necessary).

Glad you've had experience with youngsters who may have thyroid difficulty. Obviously, I know it only from an adult's treatment (I have it).