Private ADHD diagnosis 6year old DS

[Mintypanda]

My six year old has just been diagnosed with ADHD. Well- the private physician has said “meets symptom criteria” (is that the same thing?) We are trialling meds in September. She noted a few “features” of Autism- mainly variable eye contact- but we said we wanted to park that for now as we don’t see it as a good fit, are familiar with Autism / supportive strategies- and they simply don’t work for DS. I’m nervous about trialling Ritalin but school has been a nightmare- he is on the precipice of expulsion- and we’re looking to hear some positive experiences or tips. We thought about keeping a record of behaviours from now until September and then we’ll have a better idea if the meds are working or not. I’m terrified about the impact on his little personality and currently sizeable appetite.? Equally I’ve heard from those with ADHD thay their only regret is not starting earlier as it’s been a game changer. Any experiences welcome. I was quite shocked by how quick the process was- one face to face visit and two questionnaires (home and school). Is this typical?

Did they recommend anything else in terms of support/strategies in addition to medication, based on their observation of the child?

No actually. It was a Paediatrician rather than psychologist though, and behaviour is managed well at home through reward systems, physical activity, gameifying monotous tasks, good sleep routines etc.

My son started meds a couple of months ago.
started on 10mg and now onto 30mg.

we have noticed a very positive impact, especially on the higher dose.
His appetite has only just started decreasing since being on 30mg, and his appetite was massive before. He does try to make up for it once they’ve worn off.

I was so worried about his personality, he’s still very much him.

our private assessment was two face to face (with did go with Autsim assessment also) school visit, several questionnaires, also teacher questionnaires, so yours seems pretty much the same.

Thanks sunshine that’s encouraging to hear. We have another visit prior to starting meds and I think it’s going to be a low dose to test for reactions etc. The process was simpler than I thought but then I suppose his presentation on the day combined with school info spoke volumes. I do think the bad press on meds is massively over hyped at least in the UK. It’s carefully monitored and controlled.

It does get bad press and it did make me go back and forth about it.
but if I can better my sons day to day life I’m willing to try, and it has had a positive impact.

yes I did feel like I should have maybe done more? But his also spoke volumes.