The Topic of Medication My POV
The idea of considering medication is daunting; it is a choice that may include risks. Who wants to consider the concept of risk when it comes to children? I am not a healthcare professional; my only viewpoint is that of a parent. I am also not here to demonize the use of medication nor condemn parents who consider it as a form of treatment therapy. There seems to be a stigma around medication use, especially in young children. Autism can sometimes have overlapping disorders such as ADHD. With this in mind, parents must weigh treatment options specific to the child’s needs, which might include medication therapy. Behavior modification medication drugs can be helpful when dealing with mental conditions and disorders. Some persons may even find it difficult to function without it. Some parents opt out of medication and focus on gut health, which may work for some. However, medication and nutrition are two sides of the same coin. Medication alone can act as a band-aid to a bigger problem. For example, someone with diabetes may need medication therapy to help stabilize their insulin and keep blood sugars in check.
Nevertheless, without diet and exercise, it is an end in itself. Medication is not a band-aide but a tool. Both methods take time, work, and patience when l seeking improvement. Researching treatment options and risks with a doctor is vital.
When the decision was mine, I did not want to consider it because my ignorance and fear were present until the doctor told me that my focus should be whether or not medication would help his quality of life. I did not think of the possibility that medication might. Medication is a process that takes time—finding the correct dose, weighing the risks against the benefits, and considering the side effects. I know one issue that accompanies Autism is the picky eater. Sometimes, this can be related to sensory problems related to food, undeveloped oral motor skills, or gastrointestinal issues; this can pose a challenge because some behavior modification medication prescriptions can suppress the appetite, bringing the risk of malnutrition into question. Another argument I heard and that I have experienced is that these medications can be sedating, and for parents who witness this, it can be concerning.
Let’s face most kids are not quiet, and when they are, they are either sick or getting into mischief. So, seeing a child this way gives you the sense that the child sitting before you is not yours. I can attest to this sense, but I will say that hyper-focus and complete calmness’s side effects lessen as their body adjusts. Another comment I heard from a parent is that medication can block a child’s sense of creativity. I’m afraid I have to disagree with this viewpoint. For the sake of argument, some hyperactive children might struggle to focus long enough to tap into their creativity.
To Conclude or Not
There is so much to be said on this topic because it is controversial. Cultural, social, and religious beliefs can play a role in the decision-making process. Nevertheless, the need or consideration for medication is solely based on the individual decision and the child’s needs. There is no cure for Autism; I repeat, medication is not a cure for Autism. However, it can help with challenging behaviors that get in the way of everyday routines- a function aide, if you will. In closing, parents, my best advice is to silence the critics of the nay-sayers; the focus should be on your child and best.
