Putting a child on Ritalin is not a process that is done easily by any loving parent. It took a lot of research into alternative methods and side effects. I feel we made the right decision. We also had a brilliant psychiatrist.
In the news story 'Ban ADHD drugs under six' (8 May), Jim Mackie of the Overload Network asks for a ban on these drugs. I agree with this for children under four, and I think parents should be offered alternative treatment on the NHS.
But Mr Mackie is wrong to suggest that older brothers and sisters get mixed messages about the use of drugs. If the situation is handled carefully and honestly by parents there should be no misunderstanding about prescribed medicine. My son's younger sister knows that the medicine he takes would be dangerous to anyone who does not have ADHD, and understands that this is the best medicine to help her brother be a happier and easier person to live with.
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