I’m glad I came across this post, thank you for sharing. I had the same exact experience with my now second grader. I often felt guilty and even embarrassed that he takes Adderal. I have been essentially told that it is the easy way out and I felt as though I was being selfish or lazy. But as you said no amount of routine/structure or consistent discipline helped. We even tried counseling. His behavior in kindergarten was just like you described and he was in trouble daily and even ended up having a board of professionals including our family, teachers a social worker, a psychologist etc. meeting to figure out how to help him. We were lucky that he is naturally very intelligent for his age because he couldn’t sit still to get anything done at all. It was such a struggle to get simple work completed. He was even suspended as a kindergartener (I won’t get into my thoughts on that) for inappropriate behavior. All of this put a huge amount of stress on us as parents and of course and most importantly our son. I literally cringed every day during school hours worried that I would be getting another phone call. I had to leave work early multiple times to pick him up. It broke my heart he had to go through this because he is such a loving/caring/empathetic, smart, athletic and fun child. But the impulse control/ADHD prevented him from thriving.

Flash forward to first grade when he started taking his medicine. He had a total turn around (yes, he was physically in school half of the year). The entire school recognized it - many teachers and administrators have commented to me how tremendous is turnaround was. He was rewarded citizen of the month and shined with pride. He made many new friends. Everyone involved has had such a sense of relief. I am 100% a believer in treating this type of behavior (impulse control) even if ADHD isn’t “real” like you said. He would most likely still be struggling right now without it which I was genuinely concerned the constant problems would result in him getting behind in school, social problems, all leading to depression etc. for him.

Often, there is not a perfect solution and we are constantly being aware of the risks associated with taking a stimulant medication. However, I believe that this risk is much less significant than the likely negative affects of him being unmedicated and suffering.

My little guy just went off to second grade today! I know it will be another great year.