Aderall is an addictive amphetamine (aka speed) which could be causing his problem with sleep. Also, physical withdrawals from amphetamines can cause depression. Treating the depression with anti-depressants usually tends to create a general feeling of apathy that allows the person suffering from the initial problem, to hide the depression that was caused by the solution to the initial problem, as well as the physical damage caused by the solution.
Minor problem -> meds -> another problem -> more meds -> more serious problems
perhaps meds are not the solution.
i'm not completely familiar with your situation, however add/adhd are two of the most commonly overdiagnosed "disorders". There are documented cases of people giving their kids meds or even alcohol to "calm them down" - which is horrible. Akll kids are hyper, and all kids have an attention deficit, especially those raised in front of a tv.
More often, the family situation itself may cause and explain many of his symptoms, and being prescribed a cocktail of mood altering substances would only de-stabilize his normal ability to function. Some people really do need meds, but most of the time a good therapist (psychologist, not psychiatrist) would be able to navigate through the superficial symptoms to the core of his or the family's problems - fears, resentments, etc.
The "family problems" have an incredible impact on every member of the family, and children lack the coping skills to deal with issues such as divorce, death, fights, financial problems, stress, etc.
Our society has a tendancy to try to solve any problem with a pill, instead of trying to find a physical, emotional, or spiritual balance. Keep in mind that doctors make more $ by writing prescriptions than anything else.
Sports, changes in diet, mediation, and other types of alternative medicine have been used for centuries to help us reach a physical / emotional / and spiritual balance - and generally these methods don't have unwanted side-effects (other than requiring time and commitment).
I hope you find the best solution for you and your son. Good luck!
Daniel
