Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is stressful enough when you are a child, but parents with ADHD face even greater challenges. While many resources have gone into researching and treating ADHD, very little of that research has focused on what to do if you are an adult afflicted with the condition. Fortunately, parents with ADHD can benefit from this research and adjust it to fit their own needs.
The key for those who think they may be parents with ADHD is to determine whether they may have had it as a child. ADHD is not something that develops in adulthood. To have it, an individual must have had it as a child. However, there are cases where it was never diagnosed.
One of the biggest keys for parents with ADHD is to understand that it can be overcome and treated. The biggest factor is medication. To find the medication that is right may take a little time. However, this can be significantly enhanced by going to a psychiatrist that has experience treating adults with ADHD. While the media may create a big hype over certain drugs, the best option is to work with your psychiatrist, not to try come up with your drug of choice solely by yourself.
Another method parents with ADHD have for dealing with the condition is to always be consciously aware of their organizational skills. Keeping organized is a big key to effectively staying on task, not matter what the assignment. Due to the fact that those with ADHD, by definition, have short attention spans, being organized can help parents with ADHD get things accomplished.
In some areas, there may be support groups in place designed specifically for adults who have ADHD. This may even be specialized further to parents with ADHD. At any rate, even an adult ADHD support group would be of some benefit to parents with ADHD, whether or not it is specifically tailored to them. Local psychiatrists should be able to provide some information on any support groups that may be available in your area.
Another effective strategy is to keep in mind any goal-directed activities parents with ADHD may have. Having goals, even if you do not have ADHD, is a good way to keep on track. However, doing so means reviewing those goals often and having the discipline to constantly remind yourself what those goals may be. Without following through, it is likely the goals you set will never be met.
For some, therapy is also helpful. This is usually done with a counselor, perhaps a psychologist, specifically equipped to deal with those who have ADHD. The therapist should help provide practical advice and encouragement along the way. While some may tend to shy away from one-on-one therapy, it is important to remember the therapist is not there to judge, but to aid.
