Any experienced with ODD and ADHD combo?

My son was diagnosed Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Attention Defecit Hyperactivity Disorder. Basically, this to me means, that he is very high energy (spirited) and has a natural opposition to authority. I don't see this as necessarily a bad thing...It's just very challenging at times. I have been reading and researching and have found much helpful advice. The hardest thing is other people's reaction to him. His energy is so intense that it makes people cringe. We are teaching him life skills and ways of calming himself, but any other help or discussion about this would be much appreciated. Thanks.

I would agree with the other posts that suggest counseling as well as a means of coping / dealing. Have you thought about some ways to "focus" his energy? Sports? Even chores around the house can be an outlet for a child with extra energy. It also allows children to deal with constructive criticism & authority figures in a positive, non threatening manner. This can also give your son a feeling of accomplishment & boost self esteem / confidence.

There is a great resource book called the PRIM (Pre-Referral Intervention Manual). I bought a copy for my classroom & it is invaluable. It contains "common" habits that children have (behavior & academic) as well as tons of tips to deal with each behavior. It can be a little costly ... you can check with your son's school to see if they have a copy to loan you / photocopy for you. Good luck!

i agree with the first person. also, i hope ur son is receiving some medicinal therapy in addition to counseling. it sounds like he's a handful, a little medicine to help him ease himself into self control may be good.

I have personal experience with this and the greatest thing is counseling with a person who is experienced with this. Also, try not to focus on the labels a lot, as that can be harmful to your son and how others see him and treat him. So, take the focus away from these labels, try not to allow your son to "use them" against you, and remind your son that he DOES have control over his responses to authority and his reactions to people and the world around him. Yes, he may have to work at it more than others, but his actions and reactions are his choice.
I'm told that people with ODD respond best to compromise; the more they feel controlled and "suffocated" by rules, the more they push back. Find a counselor - and stick with it - who understands your son and the family dynamics and love your son like there's no tomorrow.
ODD and ADD/ADHD is a common combination, so you are not alone. Good luck to all of you!