rebecarooni
05-10-2002, 12:50 PM
My son is five and was recently diagnosed ADHD (mild) with borderline anxiety issues. He is extremely sensitive and cries at the drop of hat. He takes minor incidents to extremes and has a very difficult time controlling his emotions if someone or something upsets him. We coach him bu telling him it is ok to get upset, that he should try to use his words because people can't understand him when he's crying and this seems to help for a couple of days. He is on metadate CD 20mg once per day and I am truly hoing he doesn't have to go on paxcil or zoloft as well. Any ideas?
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sams mum
05-10-2002, 02:00 PM
My son has adhd but is taking ritalin,have u looked to see if this could be a sie effect from the tablets.Hope this helps.
Markie Mark
05-13-2002, 10:48 AM
Have you tried fish oil (Omega 3 fatty acids) I know that it has really helped my emotional state, and anxiety level. It has also allowed me to reduce my dexidrine by 67%. I have a friend that has a son that also has ADHD and the fish oil has helped him.
Connor5
05-13-2002, 06:28 PM
Hi, I would like to know more about the fish oils. I just bought the capsules. I think I should be taking 2 a day. My 9 year old son has ADD and also anxiety. The capsules are so big, he just cannot swallow them. Have you seen the capsules that are smaller for children? Thanks in advance.
help
05-14-2002, 02:09 AM
I take mega dosages with excellent results.
8,000mg=8g divided up for twice a day.
It's worth it for overall brain function.
It's "brain-food".
8,000mg=8g divided up for twice a day.
It's worth it for overall brain function.
It's "brain-food".
19and onAdderall
05-14-2002, 02:49 AM
THE MOST INPORTANt thing that any parent who is going to administer drugs to there child must do, is take them yourself first! Observe the effects, and you will truly understand the circumstance you are creating for your childs fragile underdeveloped mind. Both adderall and ritilan are comparable to the street drug "Cocaine". I am speaking of 15mg of adderall or 15 mg of ritalin, and i am 19 and 150 pounds. I have developed tics as well. The drugs for one will prevent your child from developing a natural temperment. You parents must understand that it is the school syatem and the society against the child, not the child doing ill to himself. Yes, we must do what is required to find success, but to sacrifice our natural drug-less being is sacrificing your childs freedom. He will soon crave drugs in in adolescent, and after treatment is stopped, your child will be in withdrawel. Adderall and rita;lin extremely alter the direction of the mind, and they shut off contemplative and imagination mechanisms in trade for a falsly instilled rocket of self-discipline, leaving the child behind in its stimulant races. A child should not be on drugs, Im addicted and my friends little brother takes 3 times my dose at seven, dont make your child a lab rat, and please, if i could ask one thing of you all, try the drug for yourself, and try it in a dose relative to your size and age difference to your child. If he takes 10, try thirty for a few dayts and put the time in, in trying to analyze the effects, observe the comedown
Megherc
06-04-2002, 04:31 PM
Drugs are not the answer, except for the wallets of drug companies and psychiatrists. They "test" for ADD with a severe judgement on "acceptable" behaviors, NOT with a legitiment, medical test! It's like going to your medical doctor when sick and telling him your symptoms; then he judges based on that you have diabetes and puts you on insulin....no blood test. Wouldn't that be insane?
How can they claim a biological disorder with no biological tests? Doctors and scientists are indeed brilliant minds, but they really need a refresher course in Common Sense 101.
Some good reading is a book, "Toxic Psychiatry" by Dr. Peter Breggin, although he offers his information on a website for free that bears his last name. He is one of the few psychiatrists in existance who does not believe in drugs as therapy.
All parents want their children to excel in school. But each has to go his own way. For example, I had one child who hated school, basically because regular subjects bored the crap out of him. I stressed to him it is important to graduate high school so he could move on in life to more important things, but never expected or put pressure on him for good grades. So, even though he scored high in academic tests(90+%), he barely passed high school...but he passed and now he found something that didn't bore him (computers), so even without college, he taught himself networking, web design, etc, and recently landed a job in tech support with a company that makes computer routers. Now, he is so interested in the field he has decided to study to become Microsoft Certified.
I think ADD is really a disease of societies inability and impatience with these brillant children...brilliant children are frustrated and bored easily. So why chance damaging those growing, wonderful brains with drugs? And yes, they are drugs, not medication, because the only difference is that they are "legal" and given in controlled amounts.
Yes, it is true that a little poison is not as bad as alot, but it's still poison.
I read somewhere that George Lucas (Star Wars) was never attentive at school and was always daydreaming. Looking at his brilliance, who can say that was a bad thing?
How can they claim a biological disorder with no biological tests? Doctors and scientists are indeed brilliant minds, but they really need a refresher course in Common Sense 101.
Some good reading is a book, "Toxic Psychiatry" by Dr. Peter Breggin, although he offers his information on a website for free that bears his last name. He is one of the few psychiatrists in existance who does not believe in drugs as therapy.
All parents want their children to excel in school. But each has to go his own way. For example, I had one child who hated school, basically because regular subjects bored the crap out of him. I stressed to him it is important to graduate high school so he could move on in life to more important things, but never expected or put pressure on him for good grades. So, even though he scored high in academic tests(90+%), he barely passed high school...but he passed and now he found something that didn't bore him (computers), so even without college, he taught himself networking, web design, etc, and recently landed a job in tech support with a company that makes computer routers. Now, he is so interested in the field he has decided to study to become Microsoft Certified.
I think ADD is really a disease of societies inability and impatience with these brillant children...brilliant children are frustrated and bored easily. So why chance damaging those growing, wonderful brains with drugs? And yes, they are drugs, not medication, because the only difference is that they are "legal" and given in controlled amounts.
Yes, it is true that a little poison is not as bad as alot, but it's still poison.
I read somewhere that George Lucas (Star Wars) was never attentive at school and was always daydreaming. Looking at his brilliance, who can say that was a bad thing?
cafelatte
06-05-2002, 11:38 PM
It's all very well be brilliant, and creative and in a society that doesn't value such (agreed) But it is another thing altogether to be totally incapicated by brain-overload and the fog, to the point where one's life has been a series of devastating experiences and intolerable pain.
Brilliant and creative and emotional are valuable, yes, but not if you can't do anything with them. Whether the answer is drugs or not, I'm too inexperienced to know.
Brilliant and creative and emotional are valuable, yes, but not if you can't do anything with them. Whether the answer is drugs or not, I'm too inexperienced to know.
help
06-06-2002, 04:06 AM
Megherc,
I won't take the time to abstract with your comment;therefore, the little info i'll give is it's obvious you don't have ADD and obviously know absolutely nothing about it as well.
There are plenty of "biological" tests and it's NOT developed through environmental stimuli.
Don't base you belief's on a book. You just "bought" into HIS capitalistic profit. I hope to god one of your kids doesn't have diabetes.
I won't take the time to abstract with your comment;therefore, the little info i'll give is it's obvious you don't have ADD and obviously know absolutely nothing about it as well.
There are plenty of "biological" tests and it's NOT developed through environmental stimuli.
Don't base you belief's on a book. You just "bought" into HIS capitalistic profit. I hope to god one of your kids doesn't have diabetes.
Megherc
06-06-2002, 05:33 PM
Oh, I guess psychiatrists and drug companies are doing all this out of the goodness of their hearts...they don't charge a penny for all the office visits and refills I suppose. What humanists they are; Breggin ought to be ashamed for writing a book against drugging children.
Diabetes is confirmed by blood tests. What blood test confirms ADD? Don't tell me brain scans...most of those are done after meds have been taken for awhile, thus the altered result. Meds will alter the brain like drugs, in a permenant way sometimes, as a brain of an former drug user or former alcoholic will always look different than a brain never exposed to anything.
If I am "buying" anything, it's a drug-free life. A bargain in my book.
ADD can be very frustrating for parent and child: but too many people (alot on this board in fact), have seen results from fish oil, good nutrition and old-fashioned therapy to say drugs are the ultimate answer.
Diabetes is confirmed by blood tests. What blood test confirms ADD? Don't tell me brain scans...most of those are done after meds have been taken for awhile, thus the altered result. Meds will alter the brain like drugs, in a permenant way sometimes, as a brain of an former drug user or former alcoholic will always look different than a brain never exposed to anything.
If I am "buying" anything, it's a drug-free life. A bargain in my book.
ADD can be very frustrating for parent and child: but too many people (alot on this board in fact), have seen results from fish oil, good nutrition and old-fashioned therapy to say drugs are the ultimate answer.
help
06-06-2002, 10:46 PM
I'm not going to waste my time; although,
let me ask you a question ?
Do you know anything about biochemistry ?
I'm talking about pure biological function and it's pathogenesis; therefore, do not rebutle with an anti-capitalistic anarchy way of living. Yes there is corruption to different severities; therefore, don't judge in black and white.
Comparing the AMA to the AHMA is ludicrous !
It's obvious your intelligence in biology is limited,
may I suggest a few principle courses in genetics and pathology. At your inclination of course.
By the way fish oil, food, electromagnetic "stressors", ALL alter brain function, and are considered a "drug" by definition.
let me ask you a question ?
Do you know anything about biochemistry ?
I'm talking about pure biological function and it's pathogenesis; therefore, do not rebutle with an anti-capitalistic anarchy way of living. Yes there is corruption to different severities; therefore, don't judge in black and white.
Comparing the AMA to the AHMA is ludicrous !
It's obvious your intelligence in biology is limited,
may I suggest a few principle courses in genetics and pathology. At your inclination of course.
By the way fish oil, food, electromagnetic "stressors", ALL alter brain function, and are considered a "drug" by definition.
Megherc
06-07-2002, 04:51 AM
And may I ask, do you know anything about common sense? How can a biological hypothesis be proven with no real physical tests? Isn't biology the study of physical characterics and nature of living matter? Don't assume because someone never had$$$ for college that they don't have any sense or intelligence; that's plain rude and arrogant.
People with your "level" of intelligence did brain experiments' back in the 60's with LSD to see if it would stop someone from smoking..this was not on an "anti-drug" program, but was simply a documentary charting the history of psychiatry.
And attacking ones' intellegence is the most juvenille of responses: "I'm smarter than you", "I'm prettier than you" or "My dad can beat up your dad" or the like went out with grade school, didn't you know? I know some very educated people who can really quote from their textbooks but can't think their way out of a paper bag.
But really, my "attacks" here are geared to help make people more aware so they don't blindly follow the current pro-drug thinking without investigating for themselves! I, in no way, attack a patient for taking drugs because they are the victims in this whole thing, putting all their trust in professionals... the educated gods who misguide them. My intentions are good; perhaps I shouldn't give a crap, but unfortuately, I do.
Again, may I ask, where are the physical tests to prove one has chemical imbalances that cause ADD? Because I have asked doctors, searched the internet, and they just seem to not exist! Some attempts have been made to come up with proof by the psychiatric community, however, usually those blood tests or brain scans come after drugs have been introduced into the situation so they don't fool most people.
Glad you brought up food...yes, I do know it affects the brain as well as the body. Our brains need nutrition to function properly too, just like our bodies. Many people who abstain from drugs, alcohol, smoking and eat well seem to just feel better overall. They support the brains need to keep things running smooth and chemicals in balance.
You left out exercise....it alters our brain chemistry too, endorphins, the "feel good" chemicals. I suppose that exercise is also, by "definition", a drug also. If it alters brain function, surely it must be! Hmmm... definitions sometimes aren't so practical in real life. Are you getting this?
People with your "level" of intelligence did brain experiments' back in the 60's with LSD to see if it would stop someone from smoking..this was not on an "anti-drug" program, but was simply a documentary charting the history of psychiatry.
And attacking ones' intellegence is the most juvenille of responses: "I'm smarter than you", "I'm prettier than you" or "My dad can beat up your dad" or the like went out with grade school, didn't you know? I know some very educated people who can really quote from their textbooks but can't think their way out of a paper bag.
But really, my "attacks" here are geared to help make people more aware so they don't blindly follow the current pro-drug thinking without investigating for themselves! I, in no way, attack a patient for taking drugs because they are the victims in this whole thing, putting all their trust in professionals... the educated gods who misguide them. My intentions are good; perhaps I shouldn't give a crap, but unfortuately, I do.
Again, may I ask, where are the physical tests to prove one has chemical imbalances that cause ADD? Because I have asked doctors, searched the internet, and they just seem to not exist! Some attempts have been made to come up with proof by the psychiatric community, however, usually those blood tests or brain scans come after drugs have been introduced into the situation so they don't fool most people.
Glad you brought up food...yes, I do know it affects the brain as well as the body. Our brains need nutrition to function properly too, just like our bodies. Many people who abstain from drugs, alcohol, smoking and eat well seem to just feel better overall. They support the brains need to keep things running smooth and chemicals in balance.
You left out exercise....it alters our brain chemistry too, endorphins, the "feel good" chemicals. I suppose that exercise is also, by "definition", a drug also. If it alters brain function, surely it must be! Hmmm... definitions sometimes aren't so practical in real life. Are you getting this?
help
06-07-2002, 10:00 PM
About school,
I don't have any money (yet) and i'm in grad school.
It's called get exceptional grades and go for free with a FULL scholarship.
About biological determinants,
Specific gene sites include:
1.) The HLA on chromosome 6.
2.) The dopamine transporter gene on chromosome 5, and
3.) The D4 receptor gene on chromosome 11.
PLUS, close to EXCAT ratios can be determined; in which, ADD is passed down from parents to their offspring through heredity.
By the "childish insults",
They were NOT intended as insults; however, since they were takin as such context, i'd bet 1000 bucks on MY dad in the ring.
**By the way,
Intelligence is spelled with an "I" not an "E".
I don't have any money (yet) and i'm in grad school.
It's called get exceptional grades and go for free with a FULL scholarship.
About biological determinants,
Specific gene sites include:
1.) The HLA on chromosome 6.
2.) The dopamine transporter gene on chromosome 5, and
3.) The D4 receptor gene on chromosome 11.
PLUS, close to EXCAT ratios can be determined; in which, ADD is passed down from parents to their offspring through heredity.
By the "childish insults",
They were NOT intended as insults; however, since they were takin as such context, i'd bet 1000 bucks on MY dad in the ring.
**By the way,
Intelligence is spelled with an "I" not an "E".
help
06-07-2002, 10:27 PM
By the way, hyperactivity and a difficult sustainment of attention are only the MINOR symptoms of ADD.
Parents don't "drug" their children for behavior per se, they "drug" to increase "activity" within the prefrontal cortex which is located in the frontal lobes. This stimulation relieves an "overactive" limbic system and tries to stabalize a decreased temporal lobe function along with an "overload" within the hypothalamus. A hypothalamic "overload" within the hypothalamus is usually caused by a chronic "fight or flight" response; which in turn, can cause even more increased activity within the limbic system and damage hippocampal cells.
So with that said, ADD effects ALOT more than just behavior => hyperactivity.
This doesn't mean SOME physicians do NOT "prescribe" when not needed; they do, sometimes due to a misdiagnosis or sometime for a capitalistic profit.
However, true ADDers need to be treated pharmacologically to the extent of their underactivty.
If not, they have a life of "self-medicating", depression, anxiety, and an overall feeling of worthlessness due to multiple failures AHEAD of them; in which, are cause from either from poor school/work performance, and/or from a chronic "lateness" to appointment schedules.
The problem with society now days is, they base "too much" foundation on one to a few books point of view; in which, they blow every other science advancement out the window, and hold on to this "new" theory as the bible.
If you understood the propaganda floundered between the AMA and AHMA it would be no shock to individuals on the reason there is SO MUCH contradiction in and corruption in science, and theory.
Parents don't "drug" their children for behavior per se, they "drug" to increase "activity" within the prefrontal cortex which is located in the frontal lobes. This stimulation relieves an "overactive" limbic system and tries to stabalize a decreased temporal lobe function along with an "overload" within the hypothalamus. A hypothalamic "overload" within the hypothalamus is usually caused by a chronic "fight or flight" response; which in turn, can cause even more increased activity within the limbic system and damage hippocampal cells.
So with that said, ADD effects ALOT more than just behavior => hyperactivity.
This doesn't mean SOME physicians do NOT "prescribe" when not needed; they do, sometimes due to a misdiagnosis or sometime for a capitalistic profit.
However, true ADDers need to be treated pharmacologically to the extent of their underactivty.
If not, they have a life of "self-medicating", depression, anxiety, and an overall feeling of worthlessness due to multiple failures AHEAD of them; in which, are cause from either from poor school/work performance, and/or from a chronic "lateness" to appointment schedules.
The problem with society now days is, they base "too much" foundation on one to a few books point of view; in which, they blow every other science advancement out the window, and hold on to this "new" theory as the bible.
If you understood the propaganda floundered between the AMA and AHMA it would be no shock to individuals on the reason there is SO MUCH contradiction in and corruption in science, and theory.
Megherc
06-08-2002, 05:33 PM
Wow, I see what I am dealing with here...a snob! That's ok; I know a few so I'm familiar with the thinking.
I know lots of kids with good grades who did not get scholarships...it's not like they hand them out like candy. There is a limit to how many get them! Scholarships cost money, so there is a limit to the amount given out. My husband was on a scholarship commitee once and was so distraught because of the decision making process.
I do think you insult alot of people (not just me) by saying if they don't have formal schooling or got straight A's in high school, they really ought to shut up because they can't figure anything out in life! Yes, these are not your exact words but it comes through loud and clear. Someday I hope you don't insult the wrong person or you may find yourself in deep "doody".
Also, insulting comments about typing errors is once again, childish, so let's have a good laugh about it and move on.
So, genetically speaking, there are some people and there families who need amphetamines to function properly? Perhaps there is a real need for medical heroin or cocaine too? Once again, let me state for all the research, everything is basically theory intil proven by real medical tests that can effectively measure brain chemicals in a living human being.
It's also quite odd that some children with ADD or ADHD have not one "genetic" relative with symptoms.
And opposing views from "mainstream" are what bring about important changes, and open up new discoveries, since even science will admit there is still alot undiscovered about life and the universe. But you should know this already, right?
Well, it's sad because all sorts of mental ailments are on the rise and despite all the drugs, there is no end in site; meanwhile, kids on AD's and Ritalin are shooting up their schools; there are more medicated, non-violent people killing their families; road rage; everyone wants to fight someone and we all love Jerry Springer.
I just think people should think long and hard about the prescription drug issue and not just take some questionare's word for it. There is a new drug war going on and Breggin is not the only one waging it...there are others who have written about it who happen know biology and have degrees too. Only difference is, they chose to think outside the box.
I know lots of kids with good grades who did not get scholarships...it's not like they hand them out like candy. There is a limit to how many get them! Scholarships cost money, so there is a limit to the amount given out. My husband was on a scholarship commitee once and was so distraught because of the decision making process.
I do think you insult alot of people (not just me) by saying if they don't have formal schooling or got straight A's in high school, they really ought to shut up because they can't figure anything out in life! Yes, these are not your exact words but it comes through loud and clear. Someday I hope you don't insult the wrong person or you may find yourself in deep "doody".
Also, insulting comments about typing errors is once again, childish, so let's have a good laugh about it and move on.
So, genetically speaking, there are some people and there families who need amphetamines to function properly? Perhaps there is a real need for medical heroin or cocaine too? Once again, let me state for all the research, everything is basically theory intil proven by real medical tests that can effectively measure brain chemicals in a living human being.
It's also quite odd that some children with ADD or ADHD have not one "genetic" relative with symptoms.
And opposing views from "mainstream" are what bring about important changes, and open up new discoveries, since even science will admit there is still alot undiscovered about life and the universe. But you should know this already, right?
Well, it's sad because all sorts of mental ailments are on the rise and despite all the drugs, there is no end in site; meanwhile, kids on AD's and Ritalin are shooting up their schools; there are more medicated, non-violent people killing their families; road rage; everyone wants to fight someone and we all love Jerry Springer.
I just think people should think long and hard about the prescription drug issue and not just take some questionare's word for it. There is a new drug war going on and Breggin is not the only one waging it...there are others who have written about it who happen know biology and have degrees too. Only difference is, they chose to think outside the box.
Megherc
06-08-2002, 05:44 PM
This is to the original poster,
Your question has turned into a pissing match but that's not my original intention. I understand you want the best for your child, but multi-drug prescribing is pretty typical these days and could be a modern day Pandora's box for some people so be careful, ok?
Non-drug therapy might be useful in getting to the root of the problems without the health side effects and uncertain mental health results. Wouldn't it break your heart if your child developed tics? I am sure it doesn't happen in all cases, but why risk? At least maybe consider a psychologist who doesn't prescribe drugs. It couldn't hurt and would be worth a shot, wouldn't it? Also, have a medical doctor give a physical if he hasn't already had one; as our hormones, thyroids, blood sugar, etc. can effect the brain too. Better safe than sorry. Good luck, I hope all goes well. :)
Your question has turned into a pissing match but that's not my original intention. I understand you want the best for your child, but multi-drug prescribing is pretty typical these days and could be a modern day Pandora's box for some people so be careful, ok?
Non-drug therapy might be useful in getting to the root of the problems without the health side effects and uncertain mental health results. Wouldn't it break your heart if your child developed tics? I am sure it doesn't happen in all cases, but why risk? At least maybe consider a psychologist who doesn't prescribe drugs. It couldn't hurt and would be worth a shot, wouldn't it? Also, have a medical doctor give a physical if he hasn't already had one; as our hormones, thyroids, blood sugar, etc. can effect the brain too. Better safe than sorry. Good luck, I hope all goes well. :)
help
06-09-2002, 06:19 AM
If you had ADD you'd understand what i'm talking about.
Megherc
06-09-2002, 04:38 PM
I thought I needed the biology classes to understand, but now I only need to have ADD?
I am not unsympathetic to the plight of people with kids who are having problems but I only feel that the drugging today has gotten way out of hand and one should at least know the other side of the issue!
Sorry for all the fighting, but I feel very strongly about this and think I had some valid points which should have been "debated" more than "shot down" by you...
Well, I do admit I have alot of anger issues towards the doctors and drug companies (some personal experiences), so if I come on with a strong tone here it is really aimed at them. Although I try not to convey the anger here, I am probably not very successful at times.
So no hard feelings on this end and hope you stay well.....
I am not unsympathetic to the plight of people with kids who are having problems but I only feel that the drugging today has gotten way out of hand and one should at least know the other side of the issue!
Sorry for all the fighting, but I feel very strongly about this and think I had some valid points which should have been "debated" more than "shot down" by you...
Well, I do admit I have alot of anger issues towards the doctors and drug companies (some personal experiences), so if I come on with a strong tone here it is really aimed at them. Although I try not to convey the anger here, I am probably not very successful at times.
So no hard feelings on this end and hope you stay well.....
rebecarooni
06-11-2002, 09:55 AM
OK are you two through? I appreciate your opinions but back to the question at hand.. A five year old who is well and truly ADHD (He has a good diet loving home supportive school etc should be a perfect kid..) has anxiety issues. He takes fish oil 1000 to 2000mg per day and his anxiety is a bit better but now we are seeing sleep issues and an increase in ADHD symptoms although he is still on metadate. We've been fortunate, no real side affects (appetite, tummy troubles etc) but I am wondering if he needs to go up again on dosage of fish oil and metadate.
Megherc
06-12-2002, 04:33 AM
I definately finished. I don't know exactly what you are asking, but inability to fall or stay asleep, and nervousness (aka anxiety) are listed as side effects of Ritalin, so I am thinking if he had any issues like this before Ritalin, that they would only worsen with it's use or any other stimulants.
rebecarooni
06-12-2002, 10:25 AM
Anxiety is a comorbid condition of ADD/ADHD. He was anxious before he started metadte and seemed to have less trouble once he began the medication, he slept well etc. Since the introduction of the fish oil, the medication doesn't seem to work as well and he is having trouble sleeping. I am wondering if perhaps the fish oil at 1000mg is too high of a dose and could be causing his troubles.
Megherc
06-12-2002, 05:30 PM
Well, it's hard to say. Maybe he has developed tolerance to the drug and it is effecting him differently. Some drugs can start producing paradoxial reactions after some time too. Since all psych meds are based on theroy, how can anything really be pinpointed here?
As far as pre-drug anxiety, perhaps there was another cause that maybe a therapist could have discovered,(even coming from caring homes, some children can have experiences outside the family that cause fear and anxiety).
I know child one who had two outside stressors that caused him great anxiety (away from parents); he was always getting teased at school and yelled at by an uncle about every little thing he did...the parents found out finally about school(most kids don't want to "tattle-tale" on schoolmates.... and ok, the uncle was actually my husband (the child was his brother's) who I got very angry at about it, which didn't matter to him, but my daughter finally told him off and that shut him up. My mother-in-law even commented to me that the child would get "anxious" upon hearing his uncle was coming to visit. Sometimes there are people who feel they are helping discipline a child when parents are absent, but actually they do not have that right because it is not their child! I know if someone did that to our kids when they were young, my husband would have probably tore their heads off, family or not! I have no arguements about discipline but it has to be appropriate, and my husband was way out of line.
Did your son ever have a physical(hormones, thyroid, blood sugar).
But you probably should reduce or eliminate the fish oil to see if it is somehow interacting with his existing dose of meds. It does sound like he is on a lot of fish oil to me, maybe it is too much for him?
As far as pre-drug anxiety, perhaps there was another cause that maybe a therapist could have discovered,(even coming from caring homes, some children can have experiences outside the family that cause fear and anxiety).
I know child one who had two outside stressors that caused him great anxiety (away from parents); he was always getting teased at school and yelled at by an uncle about every little thing he did...the parents found out finally about school(most kids don't want to "tattle-tale" on schoolmates.... and ok, the uncle was actually my husband (the child was his brother's) who I got very angry at about it, which didn't matter to him, but my daughter finally told him off and that shut him up. My mother-in-law even commented to me that the child would get "anxious" upon hearing his uncle was coming to visit. Sometimes there are people who feel they are helping discipline a child when parents are absent, but actually they do not have that right because it is not their child! I know if someone did that to our kids when they were young, my husband would have probably tore their heads off, family or not! I have no arguements about discipline but it has to be appropriate, and my husband was way out of line.
Did your son ever have a physical(hormones, thyroid, blood sugar).
But you probably should reduce or eliminate the fish oil to see if it is somehow interacting with his existing dose of meds. It does sound like he is on a lot of fish oil to me, maybe it is too much for him?
rebecarooni
06-13-2002, 10:06 AM
He had a complete physical and an evaluation with a psychologist and two follow ups with the pediatrician prior to going on the meds. I have taken him off the fish oil for a couple of days and am going to gradually re-introduce it. I have also increased the amount of real fish that he eats. I know there is a middle ground where he will get the most benefit from both the med. and the supplement. It's the trip to that middle ground that is hard for him. But, he slept all night last night in his own bed which is a huge step foward.
Megherc
06-13-2002, 03:14 PM
I am glad to hear he slept good! Poor little guy probably really needed that. From what I have heard, alot of people reduce the meds while taking the oil...perhaps: too much oil + full dose meds = was not so good for a five year old?? I hope you have solved the problem and he will continue to sleep better!
Fish oil is really just an easy way...most people(especially kids) don't like to eat fish. My dad won't touch it! If your son doesn't mind eating it, fish is probably much better than the oil, just like eating vitamin-rich food is better than a synthetic.
Tuna is a more inexpensive, quick way to have fish and man, the protein content per calorie is huge! Protein and it's synthesis actually produce healthy neurotransmitters!(via amino acids found in proteins) If he don't like the taste, use alot of mayo to help.
Cottage cheese has alot of l-glutamine, a major amino acid from what I have read, and also a ton of protein. I don't like it, but find fruit mixed in helps the taste.
I read somewhere that eggs are very rich in amino acids too.
I hope you find some answers and your son feels better soon. I know there is alot of pressure these days to be the perfect parent. But there is no such thing, just like there are no perfect kids (ooooh, now that's a dream.)Our kids' behaviors sometimes embarrass us, and we think this reflects on us, but they really have no concept our positions and really don't care if we are embarrassed. They will know when they have their own; or better yet, get even...I constantly embarrass my grown children (but all in fun), and yep, payback is a *****. :D
Fish oil is really just an easy way...most people(especially kids) don't like to eat fish. My dad won't touch it! If your son doesn't mind eating it, fish is probably much better than the oil, just like eating vitamin-rich food is better than a synthetic.
Tuna is a more inexpensive, quick way to have fish and man, the protein content per calorie is huge! Protein and it's synthesis actually produce healthy neurotransmitters!(via amino acids found in proteins) If he don't like the taste, use alot of mayo to help.
Cottage cheese has alot of l-glutamine, a major amino acid from what I have read, and also a ton of protein. I don't like it, but find fruit mixed in helps the taste.
I read somewhere that eggs are very rich in amino acids too.
I hope you find some answers and your son feels better soon. I know there is alot of pressure these days to be the perfect parent. But there is no such thing, just like there are no perfect kids (ooooh, now that's a dream.)Our kids' behaviors sometimes embarrass us, and we think this reflects on us, but they really have no concept our positions and really don't care if we are embarrassed. They will know when they have their own; or better yet, get even...I constantly embarrass my grown children (but all in fun), and yep, payback is a *****. :D
rebecarooni
06-14-2002, 02:16 PM
Night two sleeping all the wawy through! He said he gets lonely at night, so last night the dog slept in his room. He was so happy when he woke up this morning and she was still there. We'll see how he's doing this weekend because it's also day two with no fish oil.
Megherc
06-14-2002, 02:46 PM
Wow, that's great to hear he slept well again. We sometimes have a "puppy sleepover" too and allow the dogs to sleep in my daughter's room. I think the dogs enjoy it as much as my daughter does!
I suppose when people eat right, the need for supplements is minor. We have mulitivitamins and fish oil in our cabinet but a month's supply lasts several months..I have noticed besides the obvious natural sources of vitamins, there are new products, for example, canned fruit smoothies, that have 100% of the antidoxiants we need. Hansen's makes some, and they are so good even my son, who is really picky about food and drink even at 24, actually likes them. They just blend the right amounts and combinations of juices to make a tasty beverage. Kerns' nectar's are yummy too.
Lately I have been into the food/drink way of getting vitamins, I rarely even take a pill anymore. I look down the very long vitamin isle at Savon and actually get sick. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif How can we swallow all that, I wonder? I find myself hating the idea of swallowing even a Vit. C pill even, so I reach for the orange juice!
Glad your son is doing better. Maybe someday he will even be able to reduce his meds. He's still growing so things could change drastically and work out quite well! :)
I suppose when people eat right, the need for supplements is minor. We have mulitivitamins and fish oil in our cabinet but a month's supply lasts several months..I have noticed besides the obvious natural sources of vitamins, there are new products, for example, canned fruit smoothies, that have 100% of the antidoxiants we need. Hansen's makes some, and they are so good even my son, who is really picky about food and drink even at 24, actually likes them. They just blend the right amounts and combinations of juices to make a tasty beverage. Kerns' nectar's are yummy too.
Lately I have been into the food/drink way of getting vitamins, I rarely even take a pill anymore. I look down the very long vitamin isle at Savon and actually get sick. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif How can we swallow all that, I wonder? I find myself hating the idea of swallowing even a Vit. C pill even, so I reach for the orange juice!
Glad your son is doing better. Maybe someday he will even be able to reduce his meds. He's still growing so things could change drastically and work out quite well! :)
ckinusa
06-18-2002, 01:50 PM
Hi Rebecca -
My son is now 11. He began meds about the same age after 4-5 yrs of absolute terror - We found he did become more anxious when the dose was too high. In fact we tried the Medadate CD 20 with very poor results recently. I would speak to your doctor about the concerns, read the side effects - more anxiety is one of them, more aggitation. not promoting meds, but we have went through ritalin and the extended form, dexadrine and the extended one and now we are on Adderall. We started with the smallest dose possible and went up from there. 20 mg. CD sounds like a lot for a kid that is that young...my son weighs 105, in 6th grade and the 20 Medadate CD was too much. You might want to look into a "mood stabilizer" if he is very anxious - we started one of these earlier in the year (a very low dose) and have been able to back off on the stimulant with great results. good luck, I have been there and am still only getting older. The decisions about meds or no meds and what meds don't get any easier as they get older. Catherine Originally posted by rebecarooni:
My son is five and was recently diagnosed ADHD (mild) with borderline anxiety issues. He is extremely sensitive and cries at the drop of hat. He takes minor incidents to extremes and has a very difficult time controlling his emotions if someone or something upsets him. We coach him bu telling him it is ok to get upset, that he should try to use his words because people can't understand him when he's crying and this seems to help for a couple of days. He is on metadate CD 20mg once per day and I am truly hoing he doesn't have to go on paxcil or zoloft as well. Any ideas?
My son is now 11. He began meds about the same age after 4-5 yrs of absolute terror - We found he did become more anxious when the dose was too high. In fact we tried the Medadate CD 20 with very poor results recently. I would speak to your doctor about the concerns, read the side effects - more anxiety is one of them, more aggitation. not promoting meds, but we have went through ritalin and the extended form, dexadrine and the extended one and now we are on Adderall. We started with the smallest dose possible and went up from there. 20 mg. CD sounds like a lot for a kid that is that young...my son weighs 105, in 6th grade and the 20 Medadate CD was too much. You might want to look into a "mood stabilizer" if he is very anxious - we started one of these earlier in the year (a very low dose) and have been able to back off on the stimulant with great results. good luck, I have been there and am still only getting older. The decisions about meds or no meds and what meds don't get any easier as they get older. Catherine Originally posted by rebecarooni:
My son is five and was recently diagnosed ADHD (mild) with borderline anxiety issues. He is extremely sensitive and cries at the drop of hat. He takes minor incidents to extremes and has a very difficult time controlling his emotions if someone or something upsets him. We coach him bu telling him it is ok to get upset, that he should try to use his words because people can't understand him when he's crying and this seems to help for a couple of days. He is on metadate CD 20mg once per day and I am truly hoing he doesn't have to go on paxcil or zoloft as well. Any ideas?
rebecarooni
06-19-2002, 04:28 PM
His anxiety actually lessenoned after he began the metadate. It was still there, but less. It has only been recently that he was having more trouble so we started fish oil which appeared to make the metadate useless. We removed the fish oil and he is doing much better. We are going to see a counselor about the anxiety. I don't want him on any more meds.
Megherc
06-20-2002, 06:17 PM
Getting to the root of the problem is a great idea. I hope they can help him. Good luck :)
Alicia Nicole
06-22-2002, 12:47 AM
I have a son he's 3 and a half years old.He has been diagnosed with Adhd and I don't know Really what to think or do at this moment.The MHMR are going to put him on drugs and Im relieved and worried.See My son has fits where he screams for a hour at the most but he hits all the time and hurts other kids.Sometimes he refuses to eat and gets angry when I make him eat.Is that a Normal sign?He hasn't even potty trained yet.He speaks like his own language but mostly its half anounced words.I don't know alot about the drugs that are used these days and I'd love to know what they are can anyone tell me anything?Im also worried bout if it makes him like a zombie.I had a baby 6 weeks ago and hes so mean Im afraid he'll hurt her but I'm scared about the drug reactions and the long term dammage as well as his temper and everything. Is all this stuff I described NORMAL FOR ADHD???
Thank you
Alicia
Thank you
Alicia
Jmr1969
06-25-2002, 02:20 AM
Alicia, My son is 4 and sounds a bit like yours. He was just evaluated by my school system's education service and they found him mildly autistic. (I'm still waiting for the ADD part to get back to me. I have ADD myself. I was a bit surprised to hear about the autism. I'm getting a second opinion but can't get in until Nov! I'm also getting him tested for allergies and food sensitivities next month. Autism,ADD, and Sensory Integration Dysfunction are all interrelated. The majority of people with autism and/or ADD have Sensory Integration Dysfunction. And many Autistic people have ADD. Three books that I have found to be great tools in helping me learn about these three subjects and have helped me asess myself and my children due to their detailed symptom check lists and case studies are: Facing Autism (Lynn Hamilton), Adult ADD The Complete Handbook (David B. Sudderth, M.D. and Joseph Kandel, M.D., and The Out-of-Sync Child (Carol Stock Kranowitz, M.A. As for the potty training I wouldn't be worried yet. Boys not being potty trained before the age of around 4 +or- a few months is totally age appropriate. I started giving flax seed oil and a multivitamin to both my 4 and 3 year old sons about 3 weeks ago. (including myself) So far I haven't really noticed any differce in them yet)
Has your son been evaluated by a speech therapist?
Hope this might be helpful.
Janice : )
[This message has been edited by Jmr1969 (edited 06-25-2002).]
Has your son been evaluated by a speech therapist?
Hope this might be helpful.
Janice : )
[This message has been edited by Jmr1969 (edited 06-25-2002).]
Alicia Nicole
06-25-2002, 11:26 PM
Janis,
My son has been evaluated by ECI witch is full of stem programs speech physical and all etc..They found it rather hard to tell if its his speech or hyperactivity delaying him.They when he hit 3 Send him to MHMR to try to assist him with What ever this is.He was in school but i took him out They said he was Autistic and suicidel.I got another eval and found out that they can't tell autism till they are older.The Eval came back with the real bad hyperactivity and they even think he has Fragile Ex but I found out on both my side and his fathers side no one has it so thats out of the ball park.We are all stunned bout the out come but they are doing the drugs to slow him down to learn and test further.I hope to know more Ill Keep you informed ok.
Alicia
Good luck
My son has been evaluated by ECI witch is full of stem programs speech physical and all etc..They found it rather hard to tell if its his speech or hyperactivity delaying him.They when he hit 3 Send him to MHMR to try to assist him with What ever this is.He was in school but i took him out They said he was Autistic and suicidel.I got another eval and found out that they can't tell autism till they are older.The Eval came back with the real bad hyperactivity and they even think he has Fragile Ex but I found out on both my side and his fathers side no one has it so thats out of the ball park.We are all stunned bout the out come but they are doing the drugs to slow him down to learn and test further.I hope to know more Ill Keep you informed ok.
Alicia
Good luck
cthrn
06-27-2002, 09:17 AM
Hello. My 17 year old son is AD D and has alot of anxiety issues. He currently sees psychiatrist for meds and a psychologist as a kind of life coach (?). They, along with the school counselling team suggested an additional med for the anxiety as they felt that it was extreme (he currently is on Ritalin). The psychiatrist prescribed Buspar. Tried the sample pack and things went ok. Filled the Rx and there, in bold letters was a warning that this med could cause Dyskinesia/Dystonia. Because my husband has Cervical Dystonia, I don't even want my son near the bottle of meds now. So, what else????? I know that kids with AD D have the ability to HYPER focus at times. This really enhances their anxious tendencies. Like my son says, "I get a picture in my head and I can't get it out!". I've told him to get up, move around, sing a song, focus on some other pleasant picture...we're working on it. However, in the meantime I think I'll research the fish oils thing.
Also, in our experience, metadate, concerta, etc. don't work for us like Ritalin. According to our therapists, they are made with the generic version of Ritalin and are less effective for some than the REAL ritalin. Something to consider for the mom with the child who can't sleep.
best of luck to all. thanks for the info you provide.
Also, in our experience, metadate, concerta, etc. don't work for us like Ritalin. According to our therapists, they are made with the generic version of Ritalin and are less effective for some than the REAL ritalin. Something to consider for the mom with the child who can't sleep.
best of luck to all. thanks for the info you provide.
rebecarooni
06-28-2002, 03:05 PM
Metadate, etc. are not generic ritalin as much as they are second generation ritalin. For your son's anxiety, you could try a fish oil supplement (there are tons of threads about this) or ask the doctors about paxcil, wellbutrin, effexor... the list goes on and on. My five year old is on metadate CD which is an extended release version and he has some anxiety issues that were lessened by fish oil. However, the dosage of fish oil appeared to interfere with his Metadate so we took him off the fish oil pills and increased the amount of fatty acids (omega 3) in his diet and now he seems to be ok RE the anxiety. However, he is experiencing sleep issues which we are trying to tackle with counseling and melatonin with clonidine as a fall back position. Good luck,
Rebecca
Rebecca
claujuh
06-28-2002, 10:23 PM
will someone please call meghercs' parents and tell them s/he is not playing well with others?
Alicia Nicole
07-15-2002, 05:21 PM
They put my son shawn on Adderall and Resperdal and hes doing wonderful.Hes speaking now no more temper tantrums either.Im so happy that hes well and Adderal hasnt spaced him out like they said in fact hes improved.
Quirkydude
08-16-2002, 09:47 PM
I won't be wordy and I won't waste my time trying to push my beliefs on others. We all have our own opinions and follow what we believe will work. In response to the poster who said that parents should try the medications themselves, I personally believe that medications will have different effects on those who truly need it as opposed to those who don't.
------------------
Remember, there's a big difference between kneeling down and bending over.
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Remember, there's a big difference between kneeling down and bending over.
help
08-16-2002, 10:58 PM
The issue is not about taking medication just because the son/daughter takes it. ADD is genetic so the amount/type of medication that the child takes is usually the proper dose/type of med for the adult. Give or take some due to time/sef medication abuse and a huge age difference.
The fact is ADD individuals that are unmedicated/unaware of their actions, self-medicate to stimulate their brain whether they know about it or not. This is done sub-conciously and the most common symptom of self-medication is chronic arguing. Just sit back and observe an ADD individual who has some pressure/stress (not alotabnormal amount either) put on them. Alot of ADDers in this situation start looking to argue in order for their frontal lobe chemistry in their brain to try and 'normalize'. By doing this they can concentrate better, stay on task to finish the 'whole' project, etc... Other common 'legal' self-medication symptoms/actions are drinking abnormal amounts of caffeine and/or nicotine.
The fact is ADD individuals that are unmedicated/unaware of their actions, self-medicate to stimulate their brain whether they know about it or not. This is done sub-conciously and the most common symptom of self-medication is chronic arguing. Just sit back and observe an ADD individual who has some pressure/stress (not alotabnormal amount either) put on them. Alot of ADDers in this situation start looking to argue in order for their frontal lobe chemistry in their brain to try and 'normalize'. By doing this they can concentrate better, stay on task to finish the 'whole' project, etc... Other common 'legal' self-medication symptoms/actions are drinking abnormal amounts of caffeine and/or nicotine.
karenl39
08-26-2002, 02:31 PM
I totally agree with Help. I was just diagnosed with ADHD at age 40. My daughter has been on dexedrine since she was 6. She is now 14. She cannot get grades without it. It doesn't speed her up and she sleeps great. In fact, because she does have true ADHD, it calms her down which is what it should do. I recently was put on adderall and cannot believe the difference. Wow!!! I am not speeded up either. For the first time in my life, I can concentrate on a task until it is complete. I can also look out the window and see one thing instead of 50 things. I really don't think anybody who doesn't have ADHD can understand. I do also believe there are lots of people who don't truely have it and are being diagnosed. I guess we each have to make our own decisions and choices. I wouldn't medicate unless absolute necessary. My son may have it and is 12, but it hasn't affected his grades so for the moment we are not medicating. It would be better for him to learn behavior strategies. My other daughter who is 12 doesn't have it at all and its quite obvious. Gosh, I hate to see a 3 year old medicated. They wouldn't even talk to me about my daughter until she was in school. Take Care!
Karen
Karen
ckinusa
08-29-2002, 11:35 AM
Alicia -
Be watchful of the Risperidol! My son was once on that after a very traumatic experience, he gained 60 pounds in 2 months...Plus when I found out more about it - it is considered a very strong and Not often used drug for children...Anti-psychotic Med. I hope your provider explained all the side effects and the fact that the Risperidol is most likely "zoning" him out, that appears to make him act better....I hate to bear this type of experience, but I've been there.
Be watchful of the Risperidol! My son was once on that after a very traumatic experience, he gained 60 pounds in 2 months...Plus when I found out more about it - it is considered a very strong and Not often used drug for children...Anti-psychotic Med. I hope your provider explained all the side effects and the fact that the Risperidol is most likely "zoning" him out, that appears to make him act better....I hate to bear this type of experience, but I've been there.
memehegan
08-30-2002, 11:06 PM
wow, wish I had browsed through this site earlier to share my thoughts and experience. I am a 39 year old diagnosised with ADHD and anxiety disorders as well as post traumatic stress. I was diagnoised about 3 years ago and began taking destrostat. I have also tried ritilin. I would like to explain that the chemistry of an adhd person is no where near the same as a normal person, there fore it could indeed be extremely dangerous for a parent to take medication prescribed for a child. I have taken 20 mgs of destrostat- what would be a stimulant for most actually knocked me out cold. I had to take it at bedtime for a month. I have been told this is not the common effect and it is because of my adhd that I react this way. The quality of my life has improved more than I can posssibly share here. I have always known I was smart but I wasnt able to attend classes, study for tests or write papers in college. I failed dropping out three times, now I work full time, take one night class a semester and raise an almost cured autistic/adhd son and a sassy but sweet 15 year old daughter. I have not lost my purse, car keys or wallet scince begining meds. I always had to leave my car keys in the car and I was not able to functionally even use a wallet or purse prior to meds cause I lost them so many times it was apparent that it was irrisponsible on my part to put important things in a bag I was garunteed to loose. Also did I mention I have been a straight A student scince begining meds, and my job is very challenging and requires a great deal of organization and consistency. I can still loose my memory at times when distracted and forget an appointment I have reminded myself about a dozen times in a day, but nothing compared to before. I sometimes wish my parents had pursued this when I was a child. I just at 39 and 3/4s finished paying off all the college loans from the three times I have dropped out. Think of where I might have been in the education ladder by now if I had been able to complete college any one of those times, I know my job is waiting for me to get my degree so that I can be bumped into admisnitration. (dont worry, I'll get a dictionary by then) I also want to share that the quality of my sons life has and our family life has improved scince he began meds because the focus of my attention all day long prior to meds was constant redirection- I was exhausted, he also had no fear and from age one until around seven I feared daily for his life & limb- ya know like when he put the plugged in ac adapter on his tounge because he wanted to know what electricity tasted like and the time I caught him with the can opener, a lego car, and batteries. He was going to "open" them to get the energy out and into the car. He was and is brilliant. Ritilin helps him stay focused long enough to formulate his brilliant ideas and act on them. He also takes small doses of risperdal to slow down thoses speed of light impulses long enough to think is this gonna kill me. (now at age 11 he actually has become reasonably safe) our recent issues have been more neurological in nature. His sensations have never been full developed so he walked around with ashes from a bonfire in his sandles unaware until he had second degree burns. He makes new friends now ( he is also on a glueten free/caisen free diet) at the pool every time we go and he tried to make them laugh one day by banging his head into the pool wall which gave him a concussion! I will also say be very very careful with paxil-a small percentage of biploar people (bipoloar is frequently misdiagnoised as adhd/anxiety) -some times in this small percentage patients become extremely agitated and aggressive. My son O.D.'ed on paxil and need to be hospitalized for 5 weeks to detox when he was 7. I was terrified he coldly looked at intake workers and told them there were two ways to kill me by snapping my neck or colapseing my airway. This is so not my son, not before or after the paxil has he ever vicously attacked people like that. He absolutely adores me, and scince the diet began when he was released from hospital he is very cuddly, is by my side and talking my ears off 24/7 when he isnt cuddling. I had never heard that paxil was addictive or of it haveing that kind of side effect where patients would feel uncontrolable urges to kill their loved ones and only became aware of it after coming to a sight here and reading about how many families have suffered while there family member becomes hostile, aggressive and murderous. I also want to say I know that paxil is an incredible drug and for some people it has improveed the quality of their life ten-fold. But definitely another drug an adult would not want to 'test' on themselves. I also took zoloft and had an extreemely aggressive reaction and had to stop after day two. Good luck with your son. -meme
Sérapia
09-22-2002, 12:08 AM
Megherc-
I am an existentially- frustrated hippie by self-definition. I don't watch TV, strongly dislike pop culture, and was raised in a liberal Jewish family in which we kids learned to think for ourselves. We started out in poverty, and are now doing well, thank God. I graduated HS at age 16, and now attend Columbia University. I am 22 and have traveled around the world. But I am still struggling with my functionability. Chemical imbalances run on both sides of my otherwise brilliant family. I have fudged my way all the way to Columbia, and, after much research and soul-searching, am realizing that my body has been predisposed to a flawed brain chemistry. I am who I am no matter what, but I find it very hard to accomplish what I feel I need to do. If I need to "lab rat" myself on Concerta, Ritalin, or whatever, in order to function among all y'all humans and do good things in the world and not just rot in bed while my lovely young face grows old, then so be it. I am smart and pretty and I sing well, but there's always been a hole somewhere in the equation. I've been struggling with invisible monsters, and man, I'm exhausted. Coke's ok, just make it go away! Pot shuts it off, too. Candy's dandy but Liquor's Quicker. That's how you get eventually after years of frustration, which turns into self-loathing, and it takes alot of will and self-love to seek the help you need, even if it comes from an evil capitalistic Eli Lilly capsule. I can't overthrow Mr. Lilly until I am able to get outta bed in the morning! Ya know?
Chill out; you're way too judgmental and the wrong kinda hippie.
- Séraphia
I am an existentially- frustrated hippie by self-definition. I don't watch TV, strongly dislike pop culture, and was raised in a liberal Jewish family in which we kids learned to think for ourselves. We started out in poverty, and are now doing well, thank God. I graduated HS at age 16, and now attend Columbia University. I am 22 and have traveled around the world. But I am still struggling with my functionability. Chemical imbalances run on both sides of my otherwise brilliant family. I have fudged my way all the way to Columbia, and, after much research and soul-searching, am realizing that my body has been predisposed to a flawed brain chemistry. I am who I am no matter what, but I find it very hard to accomplish what I feel I need to do. If I need to "lab rat" myself on Concerta, Ritalin, or whatever, in order to function among all y'all humans and do good things in the world and not just rot in bed while my lovely young face grows old, then so be it. I am smart and pretty and I sing well, but there's always been a hole somewhere in the equation. I've been struggling with invisible monsters, and man, I'm exhausted. Coke's ok, just make it go away! Pot shuts it off, too. Candy's dandy but Liquor's Quicker. That's how you get eventually after years of frustration, which turns into self-loathing, and it takes alot of will and self-love to seek the help you need, even if it comes from an evil capitalistic Eli Lilly capsule. I can't overthrow Mr. Lilly until I am able to get outta bed in the morning! Ya know?
Chill out; you're way too judgmental and the wrong kinda hippie.
- Séraphia
help
09-22-2002, 01:57 AM
Don't hippies like drugs?
Varika
10-15-2002, 03:39 PM
To those who think nobody should ever take drugs--a "drug" by definition is:
[quote]
drug, n.
1a. A substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication.
1b. Such a substance as recognized or defined by the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
2. A chemical substance, such as a narcotic or hallucinogen, that affects the central nervous system, causing changes in behavior and often addiction.
{/quote]
#1a--That would even make your "all-natural" foods into drugs, in certain situations--like putting a diabetic or an anorexic on a special diet, or by giving someone fish oil or vitamins or herbs--all things you think are perfectly fine.
#2--"affects the central nervous system" Hm. You know, all those nice little substances floating around in the brain that make you see/hear/think/remember/feel would be drugs, wouldn't they? Drugs produced BY the body itself. We're not "drug-free" at birth. I've known people who are addicted to adrenalin, so they work themselves into fits to get their high, for instance. Food also has that kind of affect on people. How often have you been tired and cranky because you haven't eaten all day, and when you eat the symptoms go away?
It's not at all a case of "you shouldn't do drugs, PERIOD." It's a case of "how much do you need?" I personally have discovered that it IS possible to handle my ADD AND my anxiety without medication. I've also discovered that BOTH of them are remarkably eased by taking just the Adderall (10 mg) twice a day, on weekdays but not weekends. (Unless I have mega amounts of homework.)
I do, however, refuse to take psychotropics. They help with the anxiety and with depression, but they also kill my creativity and I don't like that feeling. It's MY choice to do that, just like it's MY choice to take the stimulants.
By the way, taking Adderall instead of quaffing down a 12-pack of Dr. Pepper in a day and a half has certainly done a lot to improve my weight problems.
Now, for those who seem to think the drugs are a magic answer...
They aren't. Especially not when you're mixing things without knowing what you're doing--witness how the fish oil mixed with the prescription meds went! Rebecca, I advise you to also help your son learn some alternative ways of dealing with his problems, rather than relying on medicating them away. Medication is great for treating the symptoms, but they do NOTHING to help deal with underlying issues. Popping pills every day doesn't help you accept your limitations, and it doesn't help you analyze the things that make you so anxious/depressed and figure out WHY they keep popping up. Ask your doctor, on your next visit, if, in addition to the prescription for the pills, he can recommend a support network or a place where you and your son can BOTH go to learn alternative ways of dealing with school and especially with the anxiety. Visits to a psychologist might also help with the anxiety aspect, if they're not too expensive. If they are, maybe you should approach your local spiritual caregiver (priest, minister, Grand Poobah of the Mystical Arts, whatever). Frankly, priests of any organized religions tend to be just as highly trained to deal with 'mental' issues as psychologists, even if their language is a little different. (And they usually don't charge you $100+ an hour! ^^ ;)
I hate popping pills, personally. It takes an awful lot of convincing to get me to do it. But I've felt the very real difference between 'no Adderall' and 'Adderall.' The fact that my grades went from "can't pass 4 easy classes if they're all in the same term" to "acing all 4 classes even the difficult ones" in one term is really awesomely convincing, y'know.
[quote]
drug, n.
1a. A substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication.
1b. Such a substance as recognized or defined by the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
2. A chemical substance, such as a narcotic or hallucinogen, that affects the central nervous system, causing changes in behavior and often addiction.
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#1a--That would even make your "all-natural" foods into drugs, in certain situations--like putting a diabetic or an anorexic on a special diet, or by giving someone fish oil or vitamins or herbs--all things you think are perfectly fine.
#2--"affects the central nervous system" Hm. You know, all those nice little substances floating around in the brain that make you see/hear/think/remember/feel would be drugs, wouldn't they? Drugs produced BY the body itself. We're not "drug-free" at birth. I've known people who are addicted to adrenalin, so they work themselves into fits to get their high, for instance. Food also has that kind of affect on people. How often have you been tired and cranky because you haven't eaten all day, and when you eat the symptoms go away?
It's not at all a case of "you shouldn't do drugs, PERIOD." It's a case of "how much do you need?" I personally have discovered that it IS possible to handle my ADD AND my anxiety without medication. I've also discovered that BOTH of them are remarkably eased by taking just the Adderall (10 mg) twice a day, on weekdays but not weekends. (Unless I have mega amounts of homework.)
I do, however, refuse to take psychotropics. They help with the anxiety and with depression, but they also kill my creativity and I don't like that feeling. It's MY choice to do that, just like it's MY choice to take the stimulants.
By the way, taking Adderall instead of quaffing down a 12-pack of Dr. Pepper in a day and a half has certainly done a lot to improve my weight problems.
Now, for those who seem to think the drugs are a magic answer...
They aren't. Especially not when you're mixing things without knowing what you're doing--witness how the fish oil mixed with the prescription meds went! Rebecca, I advise you to also help your son learn some alternative ways of dealing with his problems, rather than relying on medicating them away. Medication is great for treating the symptoms, but they do NOTHING to help deal with underlying issues. Popping pills every day doesn't help you accept your limitations, and it doesn't help you analyze the things that make you so anxious/depressed and figure out WHY they keep popping up. Ask your doctor, on your next visit, if, in addition to the prescription for the pills, he can recommend a support network or a place where you and your son can BOTH go to learn alternative ways of dealing with school and especially with the anxiety. Visits to a psychologist might also help with the anxiety aspect, if they're not too expensive. If they are, maybe you should approach your local spiritual caregiver (priest, minister, Grand Poobah of the Mystical Arts, whatever). Frankly, priests of any organized religions tend to be just as highly trained to deal with 'mental' issues as psychologists, even if their language is a little different. (And they usually don't charge you $100+ an hour! ^^ ;)
I hate popping pills, personally. It takes an awful lot of convincing to get me to do it. But I've felt the very real difference between 'no Adderall' and 'Adderall.' The fact that my grades went from "can't pass 4 easy classes if they're all in the same term" to "acing all 4 classes even the difficult ones" in one term is really awesomely convincing, y'know.