ADHD, Off Medications, and Out of Control
Reader’s Question
My son has ADHD and is off meds right now. The last few weeks he has gotten out hand, comes and goes, stays gone days at a time. Recently he skipped the first day of school. I have him listed as a runaway. To get him help I would have to hold him down. I know it would be a bad fight. You know the school is no help. I am trying to find help for him before it’s too late.
Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply
ADHD and off medications…that’s most of your problem. Your son’s best bet for control is medications. Without medications, he will remain hyperactive, aggressive, and out-of-control. I would recommend a return to medications as well as counseling — both for your family and your son. When he is out of control for you and the school, he’s also personally out of control and has little control over his dangerous behaviors. I’d return to the pediatrician very quickly.
