Nursery World - Thanks to Ritalin

My son, who is now 12, was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) when he was five. Until then our lives were difficult, as he had a very negative view of himself and was aggressive and unhappy. When he was put on Ritalin our lives began to change. He was happier, calmer, and less aggressive, had better concentration skills and, most importantly, had friends. 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.

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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