If you’re feeling overwhelmed with raising a child with ADHD, you’re definitely not alone. Here are some reliable tips from a child therapist who is also a mom of a child with ADHD. These suggestions aim to help you find clarity and confidence. Caring for a child with ADHD can be an emotional and mental challenge, but these five tips can offer some perspective and help keep both you and your child happier.
**Table of Contents**
**Can I be honest?**
There are days when I wonder how different my life might be if I weren’t raising a child with ADHD. Would I have more patience without the constant emotional outbursts? Could I maintain a tidier house without impulsive sneaking and the sticky, smelly messes left behind? Would I be the “fun mom” if I didn’t have to stick to strict routines all the time?
These thoughts often arise when I’m feeling overwhelmed and the responsibility of parenting an out-of-the-box kid weighs heavily on me. On these days, it feels like other parents have an easier time and like the dream I had of family life has slipped away.
Fortunately, seven years down the road, these overwhelming days occur less often. Time brings hope, growth, and new possibilities.
When you find yourself lost in exhaustion and overwhelm, keep these ideas in mind to stay focused on what truly matters: the well-being of both you and your child.
1. **Take a Pause:**
Give yourself permission to pause when you’re about to lose your cool. Most situations aren’t emergencies, and both you and your child will benefit from taking a break before responding more effectively.
2. **Check In with Yourself:**
When everything feels chaotic, pause and assess your emotions. What’s beneath your anger and frustration? Are you frustrated with repeated mistakes? Worried they won’t learn to be tidy? Whatever you feel is okay—acknowledge these emotions without judgment.
3. **Remember Your Unique Journey:**
Parenting a child with ADHD was likely not what you anticipated. Adjusting to these unique challenges requires patience and self-compassion. Don’t be too hard on yourself, as ADHD behaviors stem from neurological differences, not poor parenting. Recognize these negative thoughts and counter them with truth: “I’m doing my best, and so is my child.”
4. **Spotlight Strengths:**
Highlight your child’s innate gifts and strengths. When challenging behaviors dominate, remind yourself of their positive qualities. Fred Rogers captured this beautifully: your child is so much more than their behavior.
5. **Strengthen Your Connection:**
When patience wears thin, it might be time to mend your relationship. A strong bond with a caregiver is crucial for all children. Let go of control for a day and find simple ways to share joy and laughter with your child.
Life’s challenges bring growth, and over time, I’ve learned that my child’s behaviors have expanded my patience and appreciation for routine. Remember to breathe and reassure yourself that your child will be okay, thanks to the love and dedication you provide.
This post was originally published on 12/12/2018 and has been updated.
P.S. Need more support on your ADHD parenting journey?
