What should I do?

My daughter is 12 years old and was diagnosed with ADD at age 5. She started taking Strattera in December of 2003. Since that time I have seen such wonderful changes in her attitude, school work, organization and willingness to pitch in around the house. Last week she came to me and told me she wanted to discontinue using the strattera. I asked her why and she said because she just wants to be "normal". It made me feel so bad. I want her to feel that just because she takes medication does not mean that she is bad or not normal. She says she can stay on task with out it. I'm scared because I have seen such wonderful changes in her and I'm afraid if I take her off of it she will spiral downward. Any advice?

I wish I had some good advice for you. As a Adult with ADD all I want to do is feel "normal" and wish I knew how, so I can understand what she is feeling. As a parent myself, hearing that out of my child's lips would be heartbreaking.

I would start by telling her that her Dr. has put her on that medication for a reason. It has nothing to do about her being bad or not "normal" it has to do with a medical condition she has. Then, I would make a appointment with her Dr and discuss it with the Dr and your daughter together. Tell your daughter you want to make the best "Medical Choices" for her.

Good luck to both you and your daughter!

Kathy

JMO.. how is your daughter doing?????

Kathy

I HAVE TALKED WITH HER AND EXPLAINED THAT THE MEDICINE IS THERE TO HELP HER. i ALSO TOLD HER THAT I WILL SCHEDULE A DR APPOINTMENT TO DISCUSS OTHER OPTIONS. THANKS FOR YOUR ADVICE.