ADHD: Help for parents

Of course, parents want to support their child in the best way possible but often do not know how they can really help. The most important thing up front: Make it very clear to your child that you love it just the way it is. That also means understanding and accepting ADHD as a part of your child.

Looking at the strengths

During especially difficult phases, parents often find it hard to notice or name positive things about their child. In times like these, it often proves helpful to become deliberately aware of such positive things and consider, together with your child, what its strengths actually are. You will thus not only make room for beneficial talks and thoughts – once you worked out what your child is good at and what it likes doing, you will be able to specifically foster and promote these strengths. After all, a sense of achievement as well as recognition or acceptance are of particular importance for children with ADHD (and their parents!).

Find out here more about other practical tips for parents.

Exchanges with other families

After the ADHD diagnosis, parents often feel left alone. For people in such a situation, any exchange with other affected persons may help. After all, families who experience or had experienced similar things will meet, of course, with an entirely different understanding regarding any questions and problems possibly arising due to ADHD. Moreover, first-hand practical tips as well are always particularly valuable. Many cities have special mother-and-child meeting places, discussion and support groups, or centres focusing on ADHD. Initial help and contact points are also provided by online forums and blogs.

Physicians and information centres

Your physician in child and adolescent medicine is an important contact person. Discuss with him or her which therapy measures are suitable for your child. He or she may also provide crucial advice in case of any developmental and behavioural problems. If necessary, your paediatrician may refer you to a specialist for ADHD.

Another important point of contact for affected families are patient associations. They have valuable information material available for you and usually also offer a helpline for relatives, teachers and all others dealing with the issue.