Before resorting to drugs...

This is a synopsis of an article in the LA Times.
BEFORE RESORTING TO DRUGS, TRY SOME SIMPLER STRATEGIES

Even for behavioral extremes, antipsychotics are often used only as a last resort. Some behavioral extremes can be eased with environmental changes. For instance, if a child can't handle mirrors, remove or cover them.
Make sure to address all medical issues thoroughly, regularly and promptly. The child may express their physical ills through their behavior.
Insure regular sleep cycle and predictable daily routine, as much as possible.
Exercise has been shown to be an effective way to manage some behavioral symptoms. Try to fit in as often as possible.
Try a soothing or repetetive activity like hair brushing, massage or a warm bath. Distract with a snack, drink, music or read aloud to your child.
 

tiredmommy

Well-Known Member
We learned this lesson the hard way. We were advised last spring to treat Duckie's allergies with prescription singulair. We were told allergy testing probably wouldn't be necessary as she obviously suffered from seasonal (environmental) allergies. We stopped the singulair after she began having a "behavioral" reaction. Incidentally, this is when her hands swelled the first time. We tried Zyrtec, she developed a suspicious rash. We later learned that "hypersensitivity" was an adverse reaction to Singulair, as well as urticaria (hives) and anaphalaxsis. Unknowingly, we created a situation for Duckie's body where it became hyper-sensitive to her existing allergies and may have even triggered her food allergies. We are now all paying the price, but Duckie suffers the most. Shots bi-weekly. A difficult diet to maintain, especially for a 5 year old. And I'll be holding her down for three more days of testing next month, where she'll probably receive up to 90 injections. And I believe it all could have been avoided. If I'd only known. :grief:
-TM
 

Wildflower

Active Member
We are still fortunate enough to be able to manage difficult child without the use of medications. I consider them to be my "last resort" method that I keep in my back pocket.

We have used many natural tricks through the years: lavender scented pillows (sachets inside pillow cover); plenty of fresh air and outdoor exercise; whole foods whenever possible; at least 10-11 hours of sleep per night; strict routine and adherence to mealtimes; creative outlets (I'm always amazed by what difficult child will conjure up with a few sticks and some dirt); cotton clothing whenever possible; and a simple living environment (no clutter or things in excess - including toys). Keeping to these things has really helped us - it hasn't "cured" difficult child by any means, but it has shifted the intensity to a more manageable position.
 

lotusflower

New Member
Even though we are now using prescriptions we do use a lot of stragetegies that are natural as well. Simplifying things has helped. I now have schedules for everything...it drives the family nuts!...lol
 

drjack

New Member
I have modified this post, as moderator. We do not allow solicitiations. Thank you for understanding.
Looking at the dates on the posts, I have to ask-- "Is anyone still here?"

I am a child behavior specialist who believes drugs are more harmful than good for most children. We have a toolbox full of potential alternatives for ADHD, ODD, Bi-polar,
autism and other behavioral anomolies even a new one we're currently researching for enuresis. Chemical fixes aren't the answer for most kids. Often the side effects of
medication add a new diagnosis to the mix--(i.e., ADHD then stimulants is often followed by the diagnosis Bipolar. It's the drugs, it's the drugs!!!!) In my practice
I often seen kids on "cocktails" of drugs each designed to counteract a side effect for one of the others. This isn't a good thing.

 
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