Why Finding a Community is Important as an ADHD Parent

Parenting is never easy, and parents of kids with ADHD can often feel that they are alone when they are raising a child with ADHD. It can feel overwhelming keeping up with your child’s challenges and also striving to do the best for them. 

Just last week, during my final group coaching call for parents of kids with ADHD, one of the parents shared, “It’s so nice to finally be around other parents who are having the same challenges and not to feel like I’ll be judged or that I’m a bad parent.”

This is the reality of many parents of kids with ADHD who feel like they are bad parents.

The problem isn’t that you’re a bad parent—the problem is that without a community, the journey of parenting a child with ADHD can feel particularly lonely. 

Why You’re Feeling Judged and Lonely as a Parent of a Child with ADHD

Lack of Understanding

Many people don’t understand what ADHD is and how it affects children. They may see it as a behavioral problem or a lack of discipline rather than a neurological disorder.

This can lead to judgment and criticism from others, including family members, friends, and even teachers.

Stigma

There is a certain stigma attached to ADHD, and this can make parents feel ashamed or embarrassed.

They may worry about how others perceive their child and their parenting skills.

Isolation

Parents of children with ADHD may feel isolated from others.

They may have to miss social events or gatherings because of their child’s needs or feel like they can’t connect with other parents who don’t understand what they are going through.

Parenting Challenges

Parenting a child with ADHD can be exhausting and stressful. The constant demands and challenges can take a toll on parents’ physical and mental health.

They may feel like they are constantly on edge, trying to manage their child’s behavior and keep up with their daily responsibilities.

How to Find Your Community as an ADHD Parent

Sometimes it isn’t possible to find your community of parents where you live.

Many parents I’ve worked with talk about feeling worried they will be judged by those in their neighborhood or school district, and that they don’t feel comfortable connecting with parents in their own community.

Sometimes you can find support through other families online.

For example, in my free Facebook group, parents often share challenges and wins that have occurred for them. Even just seeing that other parents are going through similar challenges can help you feel less alone.

Finding an online support group can also be one way of finding support. In my group coaching program, in addition to learning specialized parenting skills, parents get to connect with other like-minded parents who get it.

Finding the support of other parents can be one of the most valuable ways to gain confidence as a parent.

Even if you are not able to join a support group, being vulnerable and sharing something challenging for you about parenting can help you feel less alone.

There are resources and support available for parents and children with ADHD.

By seeking help and connecting with others who understand, parents can find the support they need to help their child thrive.