Expert: Jene Aviram - 4/18/2010

Question
I have a son with PDD-NOS, diagnosed at 2 1/2 yrs old, that in the last 5-6 months has gone from a very happy, talkative, funny child to a boy who no longer makes eye contact, talks to himself, no longer laughs, is anxious and worried most times and no longer does any school work - he was an A/B student. I am so worried for my son and wonder is this something that happens, what can I do to help. The ped diagnosed our son with ADHD and put him on Strattera but we are not really seeing many results. PLEASE, PLEASE help me help our son.

Answer
Hi Jodi,

As you've just said, if you are not seeing any results then something needs to change.  Lets look at some of the factors that might have influenced this change in your son.  Is his behavior quite different after being put on medication?  If so, then this is something to look at.  Medication is not for everyone and I'm surprised he was put on medication at such a young age.  What makes the pediatrician think he has ADHD?  Who diagnosed him with PDD-NOS?

Anyway the point is to look at the behaviors your son is exhibiting and work on those.  The label is not important.  If your son is no longer making eye contact, not laughing and feels anxious then it's time to get him some more help.  Is he on a behavioral therapy program because this will really help in all those ways.  Your son needs early intervention such as a good ABA program.  This uses motivational rewards to show him the joy and benefit of communicating with others.  I think if I were in your shoes I would see if I can get another opinion and evaluation. He should qualify for behavioral intervention and he really needs that to progress fast.  

You are such a loving and caring mom and I know how desperate you must feel if you think your son is not getting all the help he needs.  Can you reach out to the Autism Society in Canada?  They will have tons of resources and probably some good advice and names of professionals to see in your area.
You can also go to http://www.nlconcepts.com
Look at the section called "The greatness of autism"  I think you'll find a lot of helpful articles and resources here.  I wish you great luck and success.  Hang in there.

Jene Aviram
http://www.nlconcepts.com