Re: Behavioral issues/Amy

[Guest guest]

Amy, We're going through the same thing with my oldest son, age 7, almost 8. My youngest is the mito kid and we always thought my oldest was perfecly healthy. He has always been very active, got into the occasional scrape in preschool, trouble controling impulses, never could share as a toddler. But, nothing really dramatic--teachers always liked him, good grades, etc. Then we moved and everything fell apart for him during his first grade year--teachers complaining, parents complaining, not making friends, frequent playground fights, talking in class, saying inappropriate things (cursing, sexual innuendo). We had him thoroughly evaluated and he was diagnosed with both depression and ADHD. So far, the depression meds have really helped. But, I think we will end up on a low dose of a stimulant too. His ADHD is not over the top--rather mild, possible helped with diet and lots of sleep. I'm waiting for my husband to come around, and if problems start in the fall, will go ahead and start the meds. Christian also gets weekly therapy with a psychologist who is experienced with these issues.

My advice would be to seek assistance from a psychologist, or other similar professional. Usually, day care and school people are more forgiving if you are actively working on the problem. If he were in school, you could have him evaluated and if diagnosed and given an IEP, he would have certain rights, i.e. could not be expelled for conduct that is a manifestation of his disorder. In a daycare situation, however, I'm not aware of any specific rights.

Having a child with "externalizing symptoms" is very difficult. I have struggled more with my "normal" child in the last year than with my mito child. Everyone feels sorry for the mito child who looks impaired, but the "normal one"---they just want to call him a "bad kid" when the opposite is true--he is sweet, compassionate, bright, thoughtful child who unfortuately has a brain that makes it difficult for him to control his impulses and remain regulated. I personally think "we" as a society--day care, schools---expect way too much from kids these days!!!!!!

Take care, and good luck advocating for your son, Lori, (5, mito) and Christian (almost 8, depression, ADHD)

Behavioral issues

I'm in a bind. My son, who is not diagnosed but has had some signs, is going to be kicked out of daycare for the second time. I have nowhere else to put him! I have heard mention of behavioral issues with mitochondrial. Can anyone expand on this regarding personal experience? What were the symptoms and what did you do? It is my daughter Lily who has mito, but I've seen signs with Austin. He is almost 5 and is hyper and agressive. We've tried everything. He says he tries to be good. His teacher also doesn't think it's intentional. Any thoughts? Thanks. Amy, mother of Lily, 2 and Austin 5Please contact mito-owner with any problems or questions. Please contact mito-owner with any problems or questions.