How to Cope With a Child Who Has ADHD

Coping with your child's ADHD is not easy. It takes effort, diligence and some tenacity. You can do it. As you learn to cope you will find that you and your child can have a close, nurturing relationship that is healthy and promising for you both. Give yourself some time. You will get through this one step at a time.

Instructions

How to Cope With a Child Who Has ADHD

• 1

  Accept the diagnosis. You can't run and hide from ADHD. Pretending it isn't there or that your child is just like all the other kids is detrimental to the relationship you have with him or her. Denial will only bring added stress that you and your child can do without.

• 2

  Accept your child. Children with ADHD can't be blamed for their condition. Embracing your child for no reason other than that she is your child will teach unconditional love, easing a false burden she may carry because of her disorder. Being assured of your love will build self-confidence in your child as well.

• 3

  Focus on the positive. Unfortunately it is far too easy to get caught up in the negative aspects of your child's diagnosis. Forgotten homework and messy rooms can garner more attention than the child's gifts. Children with ADHD tend to be extremely creative. Encourage music or art lessons as an outlet for their energy and talent. This will go a long way toward increasing self-esteem.

• 4

  Take a break. Raising a child with ADHD is like shooting at a moving target with a pea shooter. It is simply not easy and can be exhausting. Remember that it's okay to need to get away to quieter corners of your world once in a while. Enlist the help of a trusted friend or relative who has the patience to lovingly watch your child while you get away for a couple of hours.

• 5

  Get counseling. A family psychologist can help you and your child learn to cope with ADHD together as a team. The counselor may have not just practical advice, but tangible steps you and your child can take together to create a calmer home and closer relationship.

• 6

  Join a support group. You are not alone. There are parents in your very community facing the same battles and struggles. Having a group who empathizes without judgment can ease a false burden of guilt you may carry.