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AIBU?

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Choosing not to medicate 7yo with ADHD

104 replies

rehearseit · 11/02/2026 11:34

My son is 7, has ADHD, and is currently not medicated. More and more people keep trying to push me towards medication. I have done a lot of research and agree that it must be life changing for some people. My reasons for not medicating are due to the fact that he does a high intensity sport that is his sole focus outside of school. He eats, sleeps and breathes it. He's obsessed with it, and it regulates him to no end. He does ok at school and whilst he struggles with focus, the only thing he is behind on is reading/phonics, but not majorly. He has great friends, is super social, yes he has big meltdowns, but things are a lot better since I have been implementing coping strategies.

Despite this, my family and a couple of friends keep ranting on about how I should 'try some meds'.

It's making me question myself and my choice.

I worry about the affect on appetite and growth, and also whether he really needs it.

AIBU to not medicate?

OP posts:
StickerGirl · 11/02/2026 11:40

My husband has never forgiven his parents for choosing to not medicate him as a child against medical guidance. It’s had a huge negative impact on many areas of his life that he can’t now get back.

PivotPivotmakingmargaritas · 11/02/2026 11:40

If he broke his leg playing his sport would you go get medical attention?!? If yes why not help him fix his brain that is working harder and at a higher stress level than it should.

I’m a teacher and the difference I see in kids who are adhd but do/don’t take medication is night and day.

Work with his drs to find a right level of medication…. Sport will be a now activity ; learning, employment and friendships are for life

waterrat · 11/02/2026 11:36

I have adhd and don't think there should be any assumption towards medication.

Children are often being medicated rather than their lives being changed around them/ getting the support they need to just enjoy being who they are

When you have a ND child (my daughter is autistic) you will spend your life being given asdvice by people who don't know your child as well as you do. I would practice now ignoring them!

Crochetandtea · 11/02/2026 11:36

Does his behavior in school affect the rest of the pupils ?