What to do about attention deficit disorder kids who are mild? how to decide whether to use medication or not?

ADD or ADHD: Kids are referred for evaluation in a mental health center if they are not doing good in school. The peds decide on giving the rx. Ritalin (methylphenidate) is given in small dose like 5 mg 2x/ day for mild cases and gradually increase according to kids response. They are also followed up by psychologist and neurologist.

Great question: It boils down to comparing risks to benefits. How impairing and/or distressing are the symptoms? Also, rather than thinking of starting meds as a forever "marriage", think of it as a "trial". If the med is not well tolerated doesn't and provide significant improvement, stop giving it! despite anecdotal horror stories, there isn't any convincing evidence that a brief trial risks any permanent harm.

The only reason to : Treat adhd is when it causes harmful dysfunction in the child who has it. Impairments present differently at different stages of development. Deficits in auditory short-term memory, active working memory, executive functions & compliance, related to inattention, impact academics. Impulsive/hyperactive symptoms more often impact behavior & peer interaction. Evaluation by a specialist may be needed.