I’ve talked about my son and his behavioral issues on this site in the past, as well as his struggle with ADHD. We tried a couple of medications in the past that helped him for awhile but then eventually made him depressed and a shadow of his former self. As a mom, it was disheartening to see. He had no idea why he was feeling and acting the way he did, so as his mother, I made the decision to take him off the pills he was on.
Just over a month ago I met with his pediatrician to go over some Autism paperwork because numerous people had asked not only me but my son’s father and my mother if my son had Autism because of certain things he does. So to be safe, I filled out the questionnaires his doctor gave me. After reviewing them, she told me she didn’t feel he had it since the completed questionnaire did not show any signs that would lead her to believe he’s Autistic. The only thing she did say at that point that I never actually considered was that he may have a minor case of Tourettes and that we should keep an eye on him. She also said that the issues he’s continued to have are all part of his ADHD. She felt we should try giving him Intuniv to help control it.
I have to tell you, I was worried at first because the last thing I wanted was to see my son go through more of what he’d already dealt with because of his other medications. I finally started giving him the meds a week later, though, and here it is, approximately six weeks later, and I can honestly say that the changes in my son are noticeable to not only me but others as well.
When I went to watch his Halloween parade at his school, the ed tech and his teacher both told me that Blake is a very well behaved little boy. They had nothing but praise for him. Then on Election Day, I had parent teacher conferences and his teacher and I went over the questionnaire his pediatrician wanted her to fill out. His teacher mentioned that at the beginning of the year there were certain things Blake would do that were indicative of his issues. For one, when he would get frustrated, he would pull his hair. Two, he had a hard time controlling his enthusiasm and waiting for the teacher to call on him when she asked a question. She also mentioned how much he’s improved since starting kindergarten. If two students are having a problem, Blake actually steps in and tries to help. That’s a huge deal for my son.
As a parent, we often question whether or not we’re doing enough for our children. I’m no different. I’ve wondered many times if I’m good enough. His ed tech and his teacher both said I’m doing something right because he knows how to behave in school. That meant a lot to me because I do doubt myself, far more than people realize. I know I’m not a perfect mother, but I love my children to death and only want the best for them. To be told I am doing something right and it shows gives me a confidence boost that I needed.
So, here’s hoping that the Intuniv continues to work and that Blake doesn’t have to be taken off them. I like seeing him doing as well as he is. It makes me happy. I was really worried about how he would handle kindergarten. But he has surprised me and truly blossomed and I couldn’t be more proud of the little guy.