The crossroads of OCD, ADHD and SID

[Guest guest]

I'm relatively new here. My 7-year-old was diagnosed this summer with OCD and

ADHD. Since he was born prematurely (7 weeks early along with this twin brother)

I always knew he would need some special services.

Indeed, he did qualify for Early Intervention and special education classes

before he began public school last year. The one service that did not continue

once EI ended at age three was Occupational Therapy for Sensory Integration

Dysfunction. Nobody told me that he needed more of this therapy when EI ended,

so I didn't make any plans for private therapy.

Well, during IEP meetings this year he was screened for Sensory issues and

certainly qualifies for them. I'm relieved he's going to be getting what he

needs at school, and to also learn that some of his behaviors may be

sensory-related.

So, here's my question: How do I know if his behaviors should be attributed to

OCD, ADHD or SID? Are his compulsive behaviors due to OCD anxiety, ADHD

hyperactivity or Sensory disorders? Or all three? Am I using SSRIs to help with

his compulsions when what he may really need is a med for ADHD or perhaps simply

more OT?

Or is there any real way to answer this question? We're all having a difficult

time lately because we were encouraged to try Zoloft almost immediately after

the OCD diagnosis. The lower doses don't do much to decrease the behaviors and

the higher dose has turned him into a mean, aggressive child who exhibits truly

dangerous behavior.

I'm at the point where I don't trust the psychiatrist and have made an

appointment with a new one. I'm tempted to wean him off the Zoloft entirely

until we can get a handle on what's really going on.

So, to repeat...is there any way to really know what's causing the behaviors?

Should I see neurologist or another type of specialist?

Thanks in advance.