You hear a lot about the challenges that your child with ADHD faces but what you don’t hear discussed as often is the positive side of the condition. While it is important to deal with the challenges of having ADHD, it is also important to focus on the potential strengths.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have worked with many kids diagnosed with ADHD and have helped them and their parents overcome many challenges. These kids have many unique qualities and a one-of-a-kind personality they can be proud of. They are often adventurous, energetic, spontaneous, persistent, curious, hyper-focused, innovative, creative, and drawn to abstract ideas; they are sensitive, compassionate and possess remarkable intuition.
A diagnosis of ADHD does not have to put your child at a disadvantage in life. It is true that children with ADHD face difficulties with lack of attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity but most of these symptoms can be successfully managed and controlled with the proper education, counseling, medication, behavioral strategies and support.
Many highly accomplished people live with ADHD; remind your child of this fact and help them find the areas in which they can be exceptionally good at. Pay close attention to what your child enjoys and does well, for example:
- What is he/she good at?
- What does he/she enjoy doing?
- Which subjects does your child excel in?
Try to determine what your child seems naturally inclined to do and encourage developing it. For example:
- Emphasize your child’s strong points rather than the weaknesses.
- Accentuate the positives.
- Help them explore their interests.
- Be compassionate and encouraging.
- Show your unconditional love and support for the unique person that he/she is.
Having a diagnosis of ADHD is not a negative thing, it is just different. Help your child embrace these differences, focus on their strengths and how to build on them so they can succeed.
MONDAY MEETUPS:
Community Men’s Group
Led by Carolina Pataky
February 20, 2017 8PM – 9:30PM
Often in collaboration with other experts, Carolina’s mission for this group is to create a place where men can not only openly discuss their concerns, but adopt a new, richer understanding of the world around them. It’s a place for building trust, unity and authenticity. A place to break free and understand the limiting societal beliefs imposed on men. Through the sharing of ideas and experiences, we explore topics surrounding relationships, careers, transitions, life events, dating and sex. Complimentary.
