My father died easter Monday 2006. My brother is 7 and I am 32. I have dealt with my lose because my father and I have had a very disruptive relationship (he left my mum when I was 1). My brother has had my dad with him since he was born. My stepmum has had my brother at the shrink for a couple of months now and my brother has now been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The shrink has prescribed ritalin. I was wondering if the death of my father could give off the same symptoms as ADHD. Is this possible? I don't like the idea of my brother taking drugs if all he needs is lots of love, understanding and an ear for listening.

I am a special education teacher and I deal with children with ADHD on a regular basis. I personally am not a fan of ritalin for children with ADHD. There are much better, less abrasive (not sure if that is the right word that I want) drugs that are time released and have less of an affect on a child's personality. Drugs like Strattera or concerta are other options.

As for your question about the death triggering the symptoms. There is no proof that a traumatic event is what triggers ADHD. But, if there has been significant changes in his daily life (new home, new school) and daily routine you might see the symptoms of ADHD more. Children with AdHD need predictable daily routines with structure and limitations. They also need a lot of positive reinforcement and love.

I would begin to watch your brother for side effects of ritalin (not sleeping, weight loss, not eating, change in mood) and keep a log of what seems to stress him out. Also note when he seems more hyper (some children it is night time, others it is first thing in the morning). Then go back to your Dr. talk about what you found, and ask about other drug options.

Many times Drs. Need to play with the child's medication to get the correct dosage.

Best of luck to you and your brother and my condolences on the loss of your father.

I agree with Tuscany. It seems doctor prescribe Ritalin far too much without addressing the core of the behavior. Tuscany is exactly right when she states the routine of the day is a vital part of the child's structure. My youngest son has Down's Syndrome and he thrives in a well structured day - he knows what is coming and what is expected. Even at home we have a routine.

A good learning and support site is SchwabLearning.org - A Parent's Guide to Helping Kids With Learning Difficulties. Free registration and you can get on their email list. An example of some of the resources is a back to school kit and also a guide for parents who need to get help for their child in school. A real big help in edcuation planning. Also on managing home and family.

The NIMH site has some good information also - NIMH: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Also these two sites:
What Is ADHD?
CHADD Live | Home Page

A medical site:
ADHD News from Medical News Today

Thanks Tuscany. Unfortunately my brother and stepmum live approx 15hrs drive away so it makes it hard for me to be there when he needs me. Sometimes phonecalls just aren't enough.