I wanted a longer fuse.....

I wanted just a little more time to intervene.  I wanted just a little more warning before a meltdown started.  I wanted time to use some different strategies to prevent a meltdown.

I didn't want a Zombie.  I didn't want meltdowns that are getting more physical from my Dylan.  I didn't want a boy who doesn't want to go do martial arts because he's too tired.  

Needless to say this first medication we tried is a no go.  We are one the process of weaning him OFF it now.  He'll be done with this one on Sunday.  

His psych has encouraged was to try another med and we will.  We are hoping to start it Monday so that when we see his psych in 2 weeks we'll (hopefully) have some idea of if it's working or not.

I know how effective medications CAN be.  We've had great luck with Kira's anxiety being manageable because of the medications that she is on....but we had trial and error to get to where we are with her.

Please understand that I understand that there are some people who don't agree with trying medications with kids.  And in all honesty, I used to feel that way.....that's the biggest reason we waiting so long to start Kira on medication for her anxiety but I know for a fact that Kira would NOT be able to function in school without medication.  I just wouldn't be possible.  Please understand that this is not an easy decision for a parent.  NO parent WANTS their child to need medications just to get through the day.  I know that medications can help and we owe that to Dylan.  He is not a happy child so much of the time.  His world is not a happy place and I know that he doesn't want to be feeling the struggles that he does. He struggles to figure out so many things each and if we can help him find a calm, we will.  I want him to NOT feel stressed and anxious each day.  I want to have the time to talk to him before he explodes.  I know that he doesn't enjoy it and neither do I.

We need to find a calm first and foremost for him......but also for our family.