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Spectrum Unveiled: Therapeutic Insights on Parenting Through ADHD & Autism Discoveries

 




Spectrum Unveiled: Therapeutic Insights on Parenting Through ADHD & Autism Discoveries 


In light of our recent podcast episode about ADHD & Autism,  I chose to write a blog post about it.
As a therapist, I have walked alongside many families on their journey of discovering and embtracing neurodivergence.  I understand the range of emotions that parents feel during this experience.  I recognize that it is a pivotal moment that marks the beginning of a unique journey, filled with challenges, triumphs, and abundance of love, grace, and compassion.
In this blog post, I offer some guidance and support as you navigate this new experience.

Allow Yourself to Feel

It's natural to experience a whilrwind of emotions, from shock, to denial, to confusion, anger, sadness, and maybe even relief.  Go ahead, allow yourself to feel all the emotions - the whole range.  Take time to talk about and process your feelings without judgement.  It's okay to have lots of different feelings.  But it's important to process through them.  And the main thing is ultimately how you deal with this discovery.  Remember, your feelings are valid and acknowledging them is the firt step towards acceptance.

Educate Yourself

You know what they say...Knowledge is power.  And it is empowering, as well.  Take the time to educate yourself and ADHD or Autism.  Read articles, talk to doctors, talk to friends or family who've had a similar experience.  Do the research.  Understanding the characteristics, challenges, and strengths associated with neurodivergence will not only help you advocate for your child, but will also help you gain empathy and compassion.  It will help you learn to better understand your child, as well.

Seek Support

You are not alone on this journey.  You heard me!  You're not alone.  Reach out to local or online support groups, online communities, and local organizations that specialize in ADHD or Autism.  Get to know other parents in similar circumstances, so you can support and help each other.  Connecting with other parents who have walked or are walking down a similar path, can provide invaluabel support, guidance, and a sense of friendship and community.

Collaborate with Professionals

Build a strong support team consisting of Pediatricians, therapists, teachers, and other specialists who can provide tailored support for your child's unique needs.  Each child is somewhere different on the spectrum, and their team should know how to best support them.  Collaborate with these professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment and support plan that addresses your child's physical, emotional, and educational need.
But also collaborate with them to include you in the plan, so they can recommend a plan that addresses your emotional and educational needs as well, as you and your family walk down this path with your child.

Embrace Your Child's Uniqueness

Your child's neurodivergence is not a flaw, but a beautiful aspect of who they are.  Embrace their uniqueness, celebrate their strengths, and advocate fearlessly for environments that allow them to be themselves and thrive, not ones that stifle who they are.  Remember, diversity enriches our world and your child has much to offer.

Practice Self Care

Parenting a neurodivergent child can be emotionally and physically demanding.  Prioitize self-care by carving out moments of rest, engaging in activities that bring you joy, rest, and relaxations, and by seeking support when needed.  Make sure you have your own network of support for yourself - people you can talk honestly with, when you feel like you're reaching your wits end, because there will be times you feel that way.  Just like with the oxygen masks in a plane, taking care of yourself enables you to better support your child.

Foster Open Communication

Create a sae space for open communication within your family.  Encourage your child to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs openly, and actively listen with empahy and understanding.  Effective communication foster trust and strengthens family bonds.  You may need to learn how to encourage your child to share their feelings and you may need to learn how to best interpret their feelings, since sometimes the way they express themselves may be different than what you're used to with others.

Celebrate Progress - Big & Small

Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small.  Your child will likely start to notice that they are a little difference, so they will need positive encouragement and reinforcement more often.  Whether it's mastering a new skill, navigating a challenging situation, or simply expressing joy, every achievement is wothy of celebration.  Celebrate the journey and the progress your child makes along the way.

Practice Patience & Flexibility

Remember that progress will take time and setbacks are a natural part of the journey.  Practice patience with yourself, your child, others around you, and the process, in general.  Stay flexible.  This is a learning journey for both you and your child.  And your child will take their emotional cues from you.  Adjust your approach as needed to meet your child's evolving needs.

Embrace Hope

Above all, hold onto hope.  Your child's journey is filled with endless possibilities, and with love, support, and resilience, they can overcome any obstacles and achieve their full potential.  And their full potential may be even more amazing that you can imagine, as their neurodivergence often frees them from the social constraints that hold us back.  Most of all, believe in your child, believe in yourself, and embrace the journey with hope, positivity, and optimism.

Parents - know that you are not alone.  You have immeasurable strength, resilience, and love within you to navigate the challenges ahead. Embrace each moment, cherish each milestone, and know that your child is a gift.

If you're considering therapy for yourself or for your marriage, please visit my website and schedule a free 15 minute consultation - www.brittaniedmillslmft.com.

I provide online couples and individual counseling throughout California, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Florida.

If you'd like to see any of my previous blog posts, please click here.



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