Radio_flyer:

I think you've received some really good comments on this thread. I can definitely see why you would be concerned and I think your concerns are warranted. However, I would also caution against simply dismissing his suggestion that he may have ADHD. I guess I would recommend supportive skepticism Although you may think or feel like he is just wanting to "get a buzz", I would recommend keeping this comment to yourself and instead focus on encouraging him to get evaluated.

I think one problem with any stimulant medication is that when given to most people it will make them feel more energized and may even enhance mental and physical performance. This is why the military sometimes uses it to prevent fatigue and enhance alertness in soldiers. I think most college students could see some (likely minimal) improvement on exam performance with the use of a stimulant. Hence why NoDose, RedBull, and other similar products are so popular in this age group. Unfortunately, there is a down side to using these stimulants especially with the potential for addiction, stress on the cardiovascular system, affects on eating patterns, and the fact that they can enable students to engage in other unhealthy activities. One unhealthy and ineffective behavior that stimulants can enhance is cramming for exams. Research has proven again and again cramming for exam where you stay up all night to study for an exam, does not yield positive results. Usually students who pull the all nighters perform worse than those who close the books and instead get a good nights sleep.

I would recommend that you listen to your son and be supportive of him getting evaluated. I would also, emphasize non-medicative strategies for improving academic performance (i.e campus tutoring services, time management strategies, healthy eating and sleeping patterns, and various study strategies). If you are concerned about the possibility that he is looking for a buzz, see if he is open to trying some of these. If he isn't and just wants MEDS, then I would say you have real reasons for concerns. Maybe you could say something like... "Mark", I understand that you are struggling, but I am really concerned about some of the health risks associated with these medications." "I think we should look into trying some non-medicative methods for handling your concentration and focus issues first." "Then if they are not enough we can look into finding a doctor who specialize in treating ADHD patients and see what he/she suggests." "I think if you really feel like you have a problem, then we need to get you looked at and treated properly." "While we are waiting for an appointment lets see if we can come up with some ways to help you study better."

Maybe approaching it this way would give you an opportunity to personally investigate and assess what is going on and be supportive at the same time. It would show that you are being open-minded to the possibility that his academic struggles are not just because of laziness or lack of effort. You are offering help without advocating the use of medication.