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.
🔗 https://adhdmums.com.au/podcast_episode/episode-40-adhd-medication- stimulants-vs-non-stimulants-solo-episode-with-jane-mcfadden/
What Happens If You Don’t Have ADHD & Take ADHD Meds (S2E47)
Important context for safety, myths, and co-parent disagreements.
🔗 https://adhdmums.com.au/podcast_episode/episode-47-what-happens-if-you-take-adhd-medication-without-adhd-solo-episode-with-jane-mcfadden/
📝 About Dr Mimi Xu
Dr Mimi Xu — Website (General Info + Resources)
🔗 IG Account - https://www.instagram.com/drmimixu/
🔗 https://www.child-psychiatrist.com.au/
Lionheart Clinic
🔗 IG Account - https://www.instagram.com/lionheartclinic_au/
Mimi’s telehealth child & adolescent psychiatry clinic supporting kids and families across NSW, ACT and beyond.
🔗 https://www.lionheartclinic.com.au
Child & Adolescent Resource Mental Health Library
An evidence-based resource library curated by Dr Mimi Xu — perfect for parents wanting reliable information without the panic headlines.
🔗 https://www.child-psychiatrist.com.au/
🎧Listen Now
Spotify | Apple | adhdmums.com.au
Mentioned in this episode:
🎁ADHD MUMS PROGRAM LINK🎄
Four short audios.
One simple workbook.
Plan Christmas your way — calm, doable, and actually includes you in it.