Posted by HFHS M.D.-JK on May 03, 1999 at 21:34:49Dear Ellen,
It appears that you and your daughter's therapist have good communication concerning your daughter's mental health. I encourage you to keep this up.
The first thing that needs to be determined is her diagnosis. ADHD may not explain all of her symptoms. She may have a type of impulse disorder, social anxiety disorder, or a mood disorder, such a bipolar disorder. On top of these, she has the stress of moving to a new home. Once the diagnosis is clear, the treatment challenges will be easier.
As far as using various medications, sometimes it is almost a "trial and error" situation; what works for some children does not always work for others. Perhaps your daughter's therapist thinks a mood stabilizer such as Depakote (generic name valproic acid) will help alleviate your daughter's symptoms. It is not uncommon for children to be on Ritalin, for example, and Depakote. Many children will need more than one agent. You can always seek a second opinion if her progress remains slow.
Good luck.
To set up a confidential psychiatric consultation at Henry Ford Behavioral Services, call (248) 689-7476.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
