Is 4 too early for ADHD meds? We’re really struggling and need guidance (Canada)
My daughter just turned 4, and we have an upcoming appointment with her paediatrician. I’m seriously considering bringing up ADHD medication, but I don’t know if this is too early or if we’re at the point where it makes sense.
Right now, day-to-day life feels really hard for her, for us and for the folks at her daycare.
She has:
* Severe hyperactivity (constantly moving, unable to settle for even short periods)
* Significant behavioural challenges (impulsivity, difficulty following even simple directions, frequent meltdowns)
* Moderate anxiety
* Ongoing sleep struggles
* Speech delay and is currently minimally verbal with some emerging words.
She’s also being monitored for developmental delays. Communication is a huge barrier, and a lot of her frustration seems to come from not being able to express herself, which then escalates quickly.
We’re doing what we can to support her, but it honestly feels like she’s overwhelmed most of the time, and we’re struggling to help her regulate. It’s starting to affect everything, including home life and her experience at daycare. She is in Speech, Occupational and Behavioural Therapy for the last 12months.
I’m not set on medication, but I’m starting to wonder if not exploring it is actually making things harder for her.
If you’ve been in a similar situation, especially with a child this young, I would really appreciate hearing:
• When you decided to try medication (or not)
• What signs made you feel it was time
• How it impacted your child (especially with regulation, behaviour, or communication)
We’re in Canada as well, so I’d love to hear how this is typically approached here.
Is 4 too early, or does it come down to how much they’re struggling?
Thank you so much for reading. I really appreciate any insight 🤍