[cs_s_angel]

My son is 4. He takes medication for ADHD. He also has ODD. I think it's more than that though. He's becoming worse. Now he doesn't want to eat, which could be a side effect of the medication... but he can go DAYS without touching food and still have energy... he's crabby, all the time. he's very preoccupied with certain toys, but he's not autistic. he's all in people's faces all the time. he repeats himself. he's scared of pretty much everything. sometimes he has conversations with himself. he has no interest in the alphabet or numbers or anything like that. my 2 year old is farther ahead mentally. my oldest seems intelligent, but it's like his intelligence is 'leaving' him. babysitters complain. grandparents won't watch him anymore... and i'm beginning to feel overwhelmed myself. he sees a psychiatrist, and he goes to counseling, but sometimes i wonder is the situation ever going to get better??? what should i do? and please give me some advice on what it could possibly be other than adhd and ODD.

[Junerain]

I firmly believe there is light at the end of the tunnel, dont ever hold back on HOPE you need it, it is our lifeline at times like these...

Havew you tried another psychiatrist, how supported are you by your current one?

Joined parenting groups for parents with children who struggle?

I hear you are at the end of your rope.....if I could I would be there with you...

Sorry, I have no idea what the problem is. May you soon find a solution.

[Eliza Jane]

Diagnosis is very tricky at such a young age. Talk to your son's psychiatrist and counselor about getting a formal assessment by a psychologist. The psychologist can rule out developmental delays, autistic spectrum disorders, etc. The findings of the psychologist can then be used to guide treatment with the counselor and psychiatrist. In addition, if a specific problem is identified (e.g., developmental delay) he may qualify for special services through the school system.

I know you are struggling, but I see it as very positive that you are seeking treatment while he is still young. Imagine how much harder it is for families who don't seek help until much later.

Consider seeking some individual counseling for yourself, as well. This is a hard situation to cope with and you are no use to your child if you are completely burned out.

Best,
Emily

[1flagwriter]

I feel very sorry for your son. Has he been on the medication long enough for you to see results? Is he approachable for you? Either way, I strongly urge you to thoroughly discuss this with your support team. This could potentially get a lot worse with age....

[lynn P.]

What is he like without the medication? Has he been fully screened for autism. I understand you're baffled. I hope it's okay to say this - but I think he's too young to be on medication and I have a feeling he's been misdiagnosed. I wonder if it could be food allergies. When you said "his intelligence is leaving him" - sounds like autism. Don't give up.