Side effects that affect a child using stimulants include sleep problems, poor mood, irritability, decreased appetite, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, stomachaches, headaches, delayed growth, and feeling unwell during the rebound period when the medication is wearing off. Often, the side effects outweigh the benefits of the medication, because children are inhibited from performing well in school due to the side effects.
Studies have also shown that ADHD drugs may have long term effects on mental health. Stimulants are linked to aggressive behavior, psychosis, paranoia, and severe mood swings if taken long term. If a child has a family history of mental illness, stimulants can provoke major issues down the line.
Many parents simply do not feel comfortable putting their child on a medication that could potentially cause problems in the long-term. It is important to recognize that stimulants are only a temporary solution to a bigger issue within the brain. Stimulants may help in the moment, but ultimately if the problem is not by improving brain function, there will be no permanent change.
Our director Dr. Jolene Ross has many years of experience working with children to improve symptoms of ADHD as well as other brain based issues such as learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, behavioral problems, and more! Dr. Ross has seen many children significantly reduce or end their dependency on medication and go on to live successful lives, both academically and personally.
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Second image courtesy of photostock at FreeDigitalPhotos.net