62. ADHD Meds & Kids: The Questions You're Too Afraid to Ask with Mimi Xu — ADHD Mums

Some days it feels like you need a medical degree just to parent a neurodivergent kid. The waitlists, the myths, the pressure to ‘get it right’ — it can all become overwhelming fast. In this episode, child psychiatrist Dr Mimi Xu finally gives mums clear, compassionate answers about ADHD meds for kids, without judgement or jargon.

💡 What We Cover

Why ADHD medication is never a one-size-fits-all decision.
When to see a paediatrician vs a psychiatrist — and why access is so broken.
The truth behind ‘zombie kids’, personality changes, growth, appetite and sleep.
What’s actually happening in the afternoon crash (and how to survive it).
ADHD + Autism: does it change the medication conversation?
What parents can do while they wait on endless public and private waitlists.

💭This Episode Is For You If…

You feel scared of meds, scared of not trying meds, or stuck between two parents who disagree.
You’re drowning in the 3pm–6pm chaos when everyone’s meds (including yours) have worn off.
You’re exhausted from uncertainty, judgement or mixed messages from professionals.
You want clarity without shame, pressure or clinical coldness.
You’re parenting a neurodivergent child and just need someone to explain things like a human.

🧠 Resources & Helpful Tools

📌ADHD Screening & Support

Child ADHD Parent/Self-Test

A good starting point for parents wondering whether ADHD traits are showing up at home or school.

🔗 https://form.jotform.com/251610961002444

📌Medication-Specific Guides

A Guide to ADHD Medication

Perfect fit for this episode — covers stimulants, non-stimulants, side effects, appetite, sleep, titration and what’s expectedin the early weeks.

🔗 https://adhdmums.com.au/product/a-guide-to-adhd-medication/

📌Related ADHD Mums Medication Episodes

Stimulants vs Non-Stimulants – Solo Episode (S2E40)

Jane’s clear breakdown of how different medications work and how they often feel in real life.