Badger or Back Off My Child about Taking Their ADHD Medications
Q: My 10th grader has ADHD. He’s pretty inconsistent about taking his medications. He doesn’t mind them; he just forgets. He gets annoyed when I remind him and feels “babied.” But if he’s not consistent, it really impacts his school performance. We’re about to go into his junior year. The stakes are high for him now, and he needs to learn to stay on top of this! Moreover, I realize I can’t be there to nudge him in college. Should I badger or back off?
A: It’s understandable you want to support him without creating tension in the relationship. Instead of badgering or backing off entirely, consider taking these steps to foster his autonomy and responsibility. Dr. Brent Donmoyer, our PMHNP prescriber who works with teens with ADHD, recommends the following.
- Engage him in a conversation about creating a plan for consistency. Perhaps you two can bring up with his therapist, psychiatrist, or an executive functioning coach at the next appointment. Emphasize to your son that this isn’t about tattling on him but ensuring he has the tools to succeed independently. Underscore your confidence in his ability to handle this responsibility.
- Encourage him to inquire with his healthcare professionals about specific strategies to remember his medication. This proactive approach empowers him, fostering self-reliance. By involving the experts, he gains valuable insights and suggestions that he may be more likely to follow when not coming from his mom.
- Remind him that consistency is key for anyone developing healthy habits, and creating this plan is an investment in his academic success. By collaborating with professionals who specialize in supporting individuals with ADHD, he can get effective, field-tested suggestions and have a caring, accountability partner in his corner.
Ultimately, the goal is for him to confidently manage this aspect of his life. By involving him in the decision-making process and seeking professional guidance, you’re helping him build a foundation for success, now and in the future.
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