Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 1/28/2009

Question
I have a twelve year old who has adhd.  He is started to act a little different.  He says that he feels alone and says he don't want to go to school after lunch.  He says the only way he will go to school after lunch is for me to go with him, or come and get him at lunch.  He says he wants to go to school but then he don't and he crys all the time.  He says he don't know why he is feeling like this.  That he wishes he could get better.  I feel so sorry for him cause I can't do anything for him.  I hope there's something I can do for him.  He just crys all the time and says he feels lonely inside and don't want to leave the house, he wants to stay with me.  He is willing to go to school just until lunch time.

Answer
50% of people who have ADHD have it severe enough to  need medication. The medication is safe and effective if used correctly. You have not stated if he is being medicated. From what you describe he would certainly warrent a trial on  stimulant medication. One of the complications of not medicating is depression. He appears to be showing signs of depression. The condition also causes stress manifesting as a  "separation anxiety",if neglected or too much pressure on him makes im feel he cannot cope.He certainly is showing a separation axiety! Bullying at school may be a problem. Thus in his case not only would a stimulant be needed but also  possibly an antidepressant. AS ADHD is an inherited neurological medical condition a doctor who has expert knowledge with these conditions is certainly necessary. You have not even stated if he has seen a doctor!  An expert doctor would be able to diagnose his problem fully and treat and advise you  what to do to solve his problems.