Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 2/24/2006

Question
Hello,

Unfortunately, I have not just 1 "specific" question.

I am in the process of having my 6 year old (7 in May)evaluted for A.D.D. Her teacher has commented that "transitioning" appears to be difficult for my daughter. Is this trait ONLY common in the "over-focused" subtype? Or is it possible she can fall under the general ADD (predominately inattentive) catagory and still have problems transitioning?

I probably sound very naive to this whole ADD thing,and I guess I am. However, I am trying to eduacate myself as much as possible so that I can be as effective as necessary for my daughter.

I have an arsenal of questions and I know that you can't possibly answer them all, I guess I just want to know...what YOU personally regard as the "most important thing to know about ADD". Something you swear by, or something you have learned to be "absolute" when dealing with this disorder.

Also, how do I know when and if to medicate? She's not hyperactive, and she does fine academically which is making it so difficult to diagnose.

My fear is that I will make the mistake of medicating her, when I shouldnt, or that I'll decide not to medicate when I really should.

I feel like I have this giant weight on my shoulders, and if I make the wrong choice....it's at my daughters' expense.

Any advice you can give would be so very appreciated.

Thank you, Kimberly Pou

Answer
So many questions would need a book to reply! There is no process to evaluate. You walk into an expert's consulting room, he does an assessment and 2 hours later you have an explanation of all your questions, hopefully articles to read, a diagnosis and a plan of treatment. A follow-up consultation as well to evaluate progress within 10 to 20 days. Go to <adders.org> and download the home page article and others on that websdite that I have written and you will have answers.