Introduction To The Approach – What Is It And How Does It Help My Child?

Most pediatric counseling experts noted that ADHD causes a child’s impulsiveness or hyperactivity.

Let’s discuss the treatment in this article more and understand the truth of this approach.

Pediatrics Counseling professionals explain that counseling of pediatric type impacts behavior and feelings or emotional health outbursts and difficulty coping. Pediatric diagnosis of this condition is common in kids and adolescents, but there are also cases where adults and teens show ADHD symptoms. More than millions of pediatrics between ages 4 and 17 are diagnosed; ever since then, that number has continued to grow exponentially.

Could ADHD Be Genetic?

This type of mental illness, such as depression, could be severe if left with less attention and no pediatric help. Therefore, early detection is crucial for pediatric counseling. It is better to manage the condition at an early stage. According to Thomas E. Brown, Ph.D., “It’s tough for them to keep themselves working on finishing their assignments and on regulating their sleep and alertness.

According to studies, ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,
is a complicated set of problems with the brain’s self-management system and executive functions. Some stimulant medications can be used to control its warning signs and mental health concerns. However, the most effective and personal approach to handling ADHD is through this method.

The Common Symptoms Of Pediatric ADHD Counseling

Most of the symptoms of pediatric ADHD, according to a mental health professional and caregivers, are trouble listening, hyper behavior, easy distraction, procrastination, difficulty sitting still for a period, and problems in academic activities. Anyone can exhibit symptoms of mental health conditions; the only difference is that those with childhood ADHD tend to become more severe.

John M. Grohol, Psy.D. says, “Of course, only a trained mental health professional — such as a psychologist or psychiatrist — can make a qualified ADHD diagnosis.”

Child Counseling For Pediatric ADHD & Mental Health

Services for child counseling provide an assisting environment for pediatrics with ADHD. They also offer programs that can control the symptoms manifested by the condition.  Support from teachers, parents, mental health providers, and counseling experts is also needed to battle its symptoms. Through a series of counseling sessions, the counselors and parents of the child will have a chance to know more about the required well-drawn program and medications for the mental health issues and needs of children and teens.

“Research shows that good therapists produce good results for most problems if they feel competent to handle them and have enough experience to carry out treatment,” Michael Ungar, Ph.D., wrote. The Kind Of Intervention One of the techniques used by pediatric counseling experts is behavioral therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT.

Counseling for Mental Health Conditions

These services support mental health treatment resources integral to managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms, including applied behavior analysis. They use it to identify which of the different psychological approaches is effective. It allows pediatric counselors to assist the parents in understanding their children’s problem behaviors and mental health conditions when dealing with challenging life struggles, mood disorders, and social interactions.

Additional points to consider are listed below to support individualized treatment plans for parent-child interaction therapy, help the whole family cope, and address behavioral concerns and issues.

It is possible that the child couldn’t understand the command the parents gave because of the slight misinterpretation that triggers pediatric ADHD symptoms. Therefore, pediatric counselors must convince the parents to provide clear and easy instructions, especially during play therapy interest. Group therapy is another option to help deal with autism spectrum disorder and improve behavioral health.

Criticism can be hard for a young child, so avoid criticizing them often. A pediatric counselor could explain to parents in family counseling that they must balance praising a child and giving negative comments to avoid causing stress, anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder in some cases.

Mental Health Treatment For ADHD

Part of a mental health treatment plan is offering a small reward could boost pediatric focus and morale. It is necessary to organize a reward system every time a child does something good or if he follows an instruction thoroughly. However, in parent-child interaction therapy, parents should stay consistent with providing a reward.

Tweaking disciplinary action is very important. It develops a sense of responsibility from a child’s perspective. It could help your child understand right and wrong as society views. Therefore, parents should understand the balance of teaching proper manners for specific behavioral issues for better social interaction skills.

With pediatric counseling treatment, support from the parents, and aid from pediatric counselors, symptoms manifested by pediatric ADHD are manageable. We need to remember that children with ADHD can still become properly functioning individuals in society.

FAQs

What Is The Description Of This Type Of Therapy?

The description of child therapy varies depending on the approach used. Generally, it involves a trained mental health care professional working with a child to address emotional, behavioral, or psychological issues. Child therapy can be tailored to specific concerns and may incorporate various techniques, such as play therapy, talk therapy, or art therapy.

How Will You Know That Your Child Needs Therapy?

Recognizing that your child may need therapy can involve observing signs like persistent behavioral problems, mood changes, social difficulties, academic struggles, or reactions to traumatic events. Consulting with a pediatrician, school counselor, or mental health expert can help determine appropriate therapy.

What Happens In A Particular Child Therapy Session?

In a child therapy session, the therapist typically engages the child in age-appropriate activities or conversations to address their concerns. The session aims to create a safe and supportive environment where the child can express their thoughts and emotions.

What Are Indications For Counseling A Child?

Indications for counseling a child include factors such as emotional distress, trauma, family issues, home issues, bullying, academic challenges, anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems that significantly impact the child’s well-being and daily life.

What Is A Child Therapist Called?

A child therapist is often referred to as a child psychologist, child counselor, child therapist, or child and adolescent mental health professional, depending on their qualifications and training.

How Long Does It Take To Become A Counselor?

The time it takes to become a counselor can vary depending on the level of education and specific licensure requirements. It typically involves earning a bachelor’s degree (4 years) and then a master’s degree in counseling or a related field (2-3 years). Additional time may be needed for supervised experience and licensure.

Are Counseling And Therapy Different?

The terms “counseling” and “therapy” are often used interchangeably, but they can have subtle differences in focus and approach. Counseling addresses specific issues or challenges, while therapy may be more comprehensive and delve deeper into emotional and psychological issues.

What Is A Child Development Counselor?

A child development counselor is a professional who specializes in understanding and supporting the cognitive, emotional, and social development of children. They are known for working with children and their families to promote healthy development and address developmental concerns.

What Are The Signs Of A Troubled Child?

Signs of a troubled child may include drastic changes in behavior, withdrawal from social activities, academic decline, mood swings, aggression, excessive fears or phobias, and persistent physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches.

When Should A Child See A Psychologist?

A child should see a psychologist when they exhibit ongoing emotional or behavioral issues that significantly impact their well-being or functioning. Parents, teachers, or healthcare professionals may recommend seeing a psychologist to assess and address these concerns.

What Is The Purpose Of Child Counseling?

Child counseling provides a supportive and therapeutic environment in which children can explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and work through challenges. It aims to improve their mental health, emotional well-being, and overall functioning.

Who Can Help With Child Behavior Problems?

Professionals who can help with child behavior problems include child psychologists, counselors, therapists, pediatricians, and school counselors. They can assess the child’s needs and recommend appropriate interventions.

What Common Issues Can Be Found In Child Counseling?

Common issues addressed in child counseling include anxiety, depression, behavior problems, grief and loss, trauma, family conflict, academic difficulties, social skills development, and adjustment to life changes.

What Does Anxiety Disorder Look Like In A Child?

Anxiety disorder in a child can manifest as excessive worry, fearfulness, restlessness, avoidance of certain situations, physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Symptoms may vary based on the specific type of anxiety disorder.

What Causes Mental Illness In A Child?

What Does Anxiety Disorder Look Like In A Child?

Anxiety disorder in a child can manifest as excessive worry, fearfulness, restlessness, avoidance of certain situations, physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Symptoms may vary based on the specific type of anxiety disorder, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder, or phobias.

What Causes Mental Illness In A Child?

Genetic, environmental, and biological factors can cause mental illness in a child. These may include a family history of mental health issues, exposure to trauma or stress, brain chemistry imbalances, neurodevelopmental factors, or adverse childhood experiences. Early intervention and support are essential for addressing mental health concerns in children.

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Nowadays, It is typical to be bothered by hectic schedules, social media, and the chaos of a quick-paced world. Some find it hard to evade these disturbances and avoid the impact that these disturbances may have. Thousands of people in the present society live with conditions that make it hard for them to control their symptoms and focus on performing their daily activities efficiently. This condition is known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, which can be challenging to live with.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that the incidence of ADHD is increasing at a startling rate. ADHD is a brain disorder manifested by a continuous pattern of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention that hinders development or functioning. Some common symptoms of this disorder include:

• Hyperactivity means that an individual tends to move about constantly and excessively taps, talks, or fidgets. It can present as severe restlessness or draining others of their energy in adults because of their hyperactivity.
• Inattention, wherein an individual lacks tenacity, has trouble focusing, is messy, and wanders off his tasks. These behaviors are not because of a lack of understanding or defiance.
• Impulsivity, wherein an individual makes careless actions that happen right away without even thinking about them. This also entails a desire for instantaneous rewards or incapacity to delay satisfaction. An impulsive individual can be socially interfering and extremely disturb others or make crucial decisions without considering the long-term outcomes.

There are several methods of managing ADHD in adults and children. Still, one approach that has proven potent in healing those with ADHD is equestrian therapy or equine-assisted therapy. Horses are specialists in reflecting human behavior and feelings. They seem to mirror the energy, emotions, and moods manifested by interacting with them. This is a great wake-up call for an active individual whose vigor and concentration are disorganized. This ‘connection’ helps them perceive what their actions and behaviors can look like and their outcomes.

When interacting with a 1,500-pound lovable animal, an individual is focused and alert about what is going on – whether he is on top of the horse’s back or interacting with it on the ground. Equine therapy inherently requires a person’s complete attention, helping the person concentrate on the moment and process thoughts like, “How is the horse moving?” “How is it responding to me?” “Is it getting too near me?” or “How can I better understand this beautiful creature?

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Dealing with horses is also intensely motivating for kids, some of whom progress to working and riding with horses even long after finishing their EAP programs. For many children who have ADHD, the horse can offer a degree of challenge. It’s enjoyable – it doesn’t feel like you are working on a program. Indeed, the therapists who work with programs are experienced using the activity to teach communication, relationship, and attention skills. For instance, some programs require riding on a sensory route that provides kids multiple stimuli, like music or shooting hoops while riding on a horse.

Matching The Horse With A Child

Most kids are happy with the opportunity to play with horses, but experts say that one in ten kids is not interested in working with horses, while others might be scared of big animals like horses. Additionally, horses for therapy need to have a specific temper to be able to perform the work. Mental health professionals agree that therapy horses are trusting and dependable and commonly have substantial experience and training.

Horse therapy may not be broadly popular to parents, but health insurance representatives frequently pay for the cost. Parents can seek programs through the NARHA, which has various certified programs listed for every state. Your best move would be to shop online. Take a virtual tour, watch an online class, and look for:

• A healthy and positive staff handling the horses
• A fun and secure environment
• Certified professionals, like counselors and speech therapists
• Experienced and trained horses
• Programs that can integrate ADHD treatment objectives for your child
• Qualifications of the professionals in the program

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If getting into an equine-assisted therapy program does not alleviate or reduce your child’s ADHD problems, there are several other benefits from enrolling in the program. This includes non-material gains like happy memories and self-esteem.

Equine therapy has been established to enhance symptoms and triggers of adults and children living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The inherent outcomes of interacting with large, reacting, loving, and intellectual animals have shown the effectiveness of helping people bring positivity, reasoning, and focus to those inflicted with ADHD. The lessons inculcated from these spectacular horses can benefit all areas of an individual’s life and significantly improve the triggers and symptoms of ADHD.

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Research and studies are clear: ADHD medications combined with behavioral therapy make the most potent therapies for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in kids, specifically those who also present with aggressive behavior. These findings were reported by the National Institute of Mental Health and are supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, the effectiveness of therapy for ADHD does not decrease as the patient progresses in age. Many kids and adults utilize ADHD therapy to teach social, academic, and behavioral skills to help deal with ADHD symptoms throughout the individual’s life.

Talk with your mental health provider so that he can help you identify what kind of ADHD therapy is most suitable for you or your loved one. You can use the list of therapies below to learn more about the best therapies for ADHD.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy For Adults

CBT is basically brain training for adults with ADHD. It is a goal-oriented and brief type of psychotherapy that strives to alter adverse thought patterns and rewire how the patient feels about himself and his ADHD symptoms.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy does not manage the primary symptoms of ADHD, which are impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Instead, it helps in reducing the individual’s longstanding impairments, like time management and procrastination. There is no proof that CBT can substitute for medication therapy in terms of treating ADHD. However, studies do suggest that it aids adults diagnosed with ADHD compared to others types of therapy. Studies done in 2010 revealed that a combination of CBT and medication therapy was more powerful at regulating symptoms of ADHD compared to medication therapy alone.

ADHD Coaching

An ADHD coach is experienced in helping kids, teenagers, and adults who have ADHD take control and organize their lives. More importantly, this type of coach can efficiently help individuals attain intellectual and emotional development, effective learning techniques, robust social skills, considerate financial planning, and exciting business and career exploration. An experienced and certified ADHD coach can accurately support his ADHD clients in strengthening skills such as:

• Determination and follow-through
• Task, space, and time management
• Positive communication and healthy relationships
• A more organized and structured life
• Attaining a positive and balanced lifestyle
• Making wise and conscious decisions

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Neurofeedback Or Braining Training

Neurofeedback utilizes exercises and drills for the brain to help increase alertness and decrease impulsivity in adults and kids with ADHD. Training the brain to release brainwave patterns connected to concentration is the primary objective of neurofeedback. This helps restrict or inhibit impulsivity, acting out, and distractibility, among other ADHD symptoms.

Some researchers contend that large studies have not thoroughly scrutinized this form of therapy. Though some individuals claim improvement in focus, it apparently has very little impact on other issues related to ADHD. Other patients, on the other hand, have reported large-scale improvements using neurofeedback therapy.

Play Therapy

Play therapy is utilized to assist kids with ADHD learn, offer comfort, connect, increase self-confidence, and alleviate anxiety. Play is a secondary means for therapists to modify the behaviors, thoughts, and perceptions of children. Child psychologists agree that play therapy is a therapeutic instrument likened to giving sweet candy to a kid rather than a sour one. Playing with children is important for them to feel safe, attached, and connected.

Art Therapy

Art therapy encourages kids and adults who are diagnosed with ADHD as well as other neuropsychological conditions to express themselves more easily through art-making and graphic images than spoken or written words. This type of therapy can be particularly effective for busy and active kids with ADHD because it prevents their hands from moving and leads to acute emotional and mental focus, which is not always attained in other forms of therapy.

Kids with ADHD utilize art therapy because painting, sculpting, drawing, and other processes help tackle emotional issues, deal with behavior, improve self-awareness, decrease stress, and improve interpersonal skills. Art therapy builds children’s problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and mental flexibility as they talk about what they have made to their parents, siblings, or friends. Art also encourages positive social interactions, such as complimenting, making suggestions, or sharing art materials.

Equine Therapy

Equine-assisted therapy is an experiential form of ADHD therapy where clients are managed with the interaction of horses. At the same time, a certified mental health provider supervises the session instead of sitting down and talking about their issues. One model of equine-assisted therapy, the Natural LIfemanship, is a trauma-informed method grounded on the principles of neuroscience and the importance of healthy and positive connections. Clients are assisted in learning to control their body energies and identify non-verbal hints to connect with a horse. The animal gives immediate responses to the client’s behavior that other humans cannot do.

Equine-assisted therapy is increasingly becoming a popularly used method, as numerous studies and families have witnessed the effectiveness of this human-horse interaction.

Introduction To ADHD

What is ADHD? It is a neurodevelopmental condition such as depression that affects individuals. Usually, it gets diagnosed early and often lasts into adulthood. Let’s discuss more about it in this article.

ADHD and disease control and prevention experts and scientists believe that significant factors in developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder come from the genetic factors most children and adults inherit from their parents. There are claims that exposure to environmental factors or toxins from substance abuse such as alcohol use, cigarette smoking, or drug use during pregnancy is the cause of ADHD in some research.

Managing ADHD

While attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD can be problematic to manage due to a child’s behavior issues or careless mistakes, it is vital to understand that it is not part of a child’s learning disabilities. However, with the condition being present, it does make learning extremely difficult in most cases. One outcome that people with deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD can expect is trouble focusing on an object and paying attention.

Other Common Symptoms

Also, preschool-aged children with ADHD get easily distracted externally and internally and display some sort of mood disorder. They get so occupied with a particular thing that they become unconscious of anything else around them. It is as if they lock themselves in a box that only they can manage to get out of. People with attention deficit disorder have a combined presentation which may also show signs of getting easily distracted by moving things, colorful environmental risks, loud noises, and even unusual gestures they come across or any unnecessary risk factors.

Tips To Remember:

ADHD And Distraction

Limit Distractions

Since people with ADHD get easily distracted, they need to have a specific assignment, activity, or chore as a possible treatment. There should be a limit to what they should do to accomplish a task for sustained mental effort and learn to break them into manageable pieces. That way, people with ADHD can simplify and organize their mental health, social skills, sleep problems, and self-control much better.

Simplify Organization Process

The Centers for Disease Control experts believe that the thing with this condition that makes everything seem complicated is the organization process. That is because of the confusion associated with space, list of tasks, number of people to deal with ADHD every day, etc. It is important to simplify the organization process, especially when there is too much on the table.

Promote Well-Regulated Sleep Patterns

ADHD symptoms arise when you least expect them, so managing symptoms of ADHD is essential. It starts by getting rid of mental and physical extreme restlessness. People can get enough rest through well-regulated sleep patterns. There is an ensured lesser mental and emotional exhaustion plus overall health, and ADHD presents treatment with complete rejuvenation.

Try Expressing Yourself

One important aspect of dealing with ADHD is expression. Most people with the condition are not capable of sharing their ADHD struggles. Therefore, it is significantly important to allow others to understand it to process the right thing. If symptoms continue, let friends and family become the support guide.

Further Insight

Note that some of the ADHD tips above might work, and some may not. Keeping an open mind on other strategies that can help cope with hyperactivity symptoms is essential. But in case things are a bit tough, it would be an excellent option to seek individualized new counseling, schedule behavior therapy sessions, and ask doctors for medication recommendations for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. ADHD, predominantly inattentive presentation, may not be that serious, but similar symptoms still can complicate lives for people with it.

According to a National Resource Center child psychologist, it is best to consult a mental health professional to diagnose ADHD and provide them with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation or ADHD medications/stimulant medications. Parents can also consider behavioral therapy for the child’s impulsive behaviors, mood swings, conduct disorders, anxiety disorders, and mental disorders.

FAQs

Does ADHD affect one’s memory? Why?

Yes, ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) can affect a person’s memory. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with both short-term and long-term memory. This is thought to be related to difficulties with sustained attention, making it challenging to encode information effectively.

What if ADHD is left untreated?

If ADHD is left untreated, it can lead to various difficulties in a person’s life. These can include academic or work-related problems, relationship issues, low self-esteem, and an increased risk of accidents and injuries due to impulsivity and inattention.

Does ADHD run in the family?

ADHD does have a genetic component, meaning it can run in families. If a close relative (e.g., parents or siblings) has ADHD, it increases the risk of a person developing ADHD themselves.

What other conditions present with ADHD?

ADHD can often co-occur with other conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, learning disabilities, and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). These comorbid conditions can complicate diagnosis and treatment.

What are the four types of ADHD?

The most recent diagnostic criteria for ADHD do not categorize it into four types as in the past. Instead, it is now classified as either primarily inattentive, primarily hyperactive-impulsive, or combined, depending on the predominant symptoms.

How is ADHD treated or managed?

ADHD is typically managed through strategies, including behavioral therapy, medication (such as stimulants or non-stimulants), education and support, and lifestyle changes like exercise and improved nutrition. The specific approach may vary depending on the individual’s needs.

What are the main causes of ADHD?

The exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. It’s not caused by parenting or social factors.

Is ADHD a serious mental illness?

ADHD is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder rather than a mental illness. While it can significantly impact a person’s life, it is typically not classified as a mental illness in the same way that conditions like depression or schizophrenia are.

How do you get a medical exam for ADHD?

To get an ADHD diagnosis and appropriate treatment, you should consult a mental health professional or medical doctor specializing in ADHD. They will typically conduct a thorough evaluation, including interviews, questionnaires, and observations.

Does ADHD go away?

ADHD is a lifelong condition, but its symptoms can change and evolve with age. Some individuals may find that their symptoms become less pronounced as they get older, but many will continue to experience some ADHD-related challenges throughout their lives.

What is the most effective treatment for ADHD?

The most effective treatment for ADHD varies from person to person. It often involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. The choice of medication and therapy techniques depends on individual needs and preferences.

What are the behaviors of ADHD?

Common behaviors associated with ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, difficulty with organization and time management, forgetfulness, and difficulty focusing on tasks.

How do you help someone with ADHD focus?

Strategies to help someone with ADHD focus include creating a structured environment, using visual aids, breaking tasks into smaller steps, minimizing distractions, and considering medication or therapy options under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Can ADHD affect sleep?

Yes, ADHD can affect sleep. Many individuals with ADHD struggle with sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep, restless sleep, and frequent awakenings. Addressing ADHD symptoms and establishing good sleep hygiene can help improve sleep.

Does ADHD cause mood swings?

ADHD or Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a mental health condition I have been dealing with for quite a long time. My ADHD symptoms are no different from those of people who are also experiencing it. There are also moments where I fidget and do not focus on a task. I easily lose concentration, and I am disorganized too. I also have this poor time management skills and a very short attention span. Overall, ADHD is simply a mental illness that sadly affected me.

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I remember being different when I was a kid after I got diagnosed with ADHD. I view my condition as damaging at that time because it caused me depression. I immediately have these depressing thoughts where I always felt like people are only trying to put up with me because they feel sorry I have this attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. But honestly, that thought is something I can endure, though. It does not entirely bother me that I have it because great loving people still surround me. For me, that is all that matters.

However, there are instances that when people emphasize that I am mentally unstable, I get hurt and feel sad. That is where I view my condition differently. And right after I engaged in a romantic relationship, everything becomes so challenging that my condition somehow wants me to quit and let go of my feelings. So I went to seek help and asked my counselor about the things I can do to manage it. And here’s what she had to say.

End Distractions And Focus On Current Situation: One issue with my condition is my inability to focus. With ADHD, that is extremely difficult to handle. So my counselor told me that I should limit my exposure to the external commotion as much as possible. That way, I can only do limited things for a limited purpose. My counselor said that once I managed to put up a barrier on things I should and should not do, I will eventually learn techniques to minimize possible unwanted interruption. Thus, that would help me deal with more important things to me, specifically my relationship.

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Develop Structural Habits And Keep It Up – Another issue with ADHD is organization. Sometimes, it includes a simple task like deciding which stuff is necessary and which requires disposal. My ADHD symptoms often create a decision-making issue and barrier between my partner and me because I believe I know what I want to do most of the time. But eventually, I find myself not following even the simplest instructions. With that, my counselor advised me to stick to a routine that I can manage. She said I could start by utilizing calendars for schedules. My counselor also said that I should create a space for myself to miss following some of the important things on my to-do list.

Stretch Attention Span And Work On Easy-To-Do Activities – ADHD can be very difficult, especially on certain occasions. It is entirely impossible to handle things all at once because ADHD somehow forbids me from multitasking. The main reason is because of the short attention span I have with everything. In some instances, it causes a relationship problem because my partner used to think that I don’t pay enough attention to our relationship’s needs. Thus, my counselor told me to practice stretching my attention span. She advised that I engage in writing and note-taking to guide me on active listening. She also said that I should engage in repeated verbal instructions to let words sink into my head if possible. My counselor said that these tips could help improve my focus and ability to follow instructions.

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Manage Time And Run Errands Accordingly – I may be struggling with ADHD, but I can perfectly work and earn a job. I can work on a lot of things as most people do. However, there are just times that I get emotionally and mentally overwhelmed about everything. When that hits, my ADHD somewhat prevents me from communicating with my partner. It can cause many relationship issues, so my counselor advised me to manage my time accordingly. She said I should allow some time for myself once in a while. She said I also need to refocus and use my time wisely to avoid leaving other tasks behind. My counselor ensures that once I practice time management, it could lessen the complications I have with my job, daily task, and relationship responsibilities.

Exercise And Spend Some Time Outdoor – Exercise has the power to relieve stress, regulate mood, and calm the mind. That is why my counselor often tells me to be more active. She explains that exercise contributes a lot to managing excess energy and aggression that can get in the way of my relationship. She said I could start with simple stretching or yoga. My counselor also said that people with ADHD often benefit from sunshine and green surroundings. Thus, I should spend more time with nature to get that emotional and mental peace.

My Family And Our Mental Health

Family is said to be one of our greatest blessings in life. Family brings us happiness and comfort. However, the world can be very complicated, and raising a family can be challenging at times.

Responsibilities and all the other pressures in a family life can be overwhelming that we forget to check on ourselves. Perhaps you might be thinking that being a good parent and at the same time prioritizing your mental health is impossible. But it should not be the case.

Data shows that among the people who show signs and suffer from a mental illness like depression, 68% of the women and 57% of the men are parents. The time of pregnancy is typically the highest peak of their depression.

Parents of children with special needs, such as ADHD and autism, are also found to have higher stress levels than other parents from other families.

Family Mental Health

The mental load of being a parent in a family is no joke. You are responsible for providing for your family, so you work for hours and sometimes even get a second job.

At the same time, parents, as most people, are supposed to be with their children as they grow up. They should discipline and guide their child to become a good person in the family and outside the family.

Constant effort to balance these responsibilities can be overwhelming and exhausting for the parents in a family.

Good Parenting Starts With A Healthy Mind And Body

Some parents may think that taking a moment to evaluate and re-align your mental health is a waste of time. We are always so caught up with how to become a good parent, find a better job for our family, secure a promising future for our children, etc.

But often, we fail to notice that parents’ mental health status may have critical effects on the children in our family.

For one, there is an association between bad parenting and depression, possibly other mental health conditions as well. Mental illness, particularly epression can make a parent hostile, ill-tempered, and disengaged.

Most of the time, the parents themselves are not aware of the deep-seated issues causing them stress.

Mental Health Of Family Parents

In effect, children of parents with depression tend to develop poorer physical and mental health. The mental illness could harm the child’s temperament and influence the development of various behavioral and mental health problems in children later on.

These children tend to have more deficient interpersonal skills at school, maladaptive stress response systems, and a higher risk of mental health problems like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders.

Keeping Your Mental Health In Check

Knowing the gravity of the mental health and family and its effect on the parent themselves and the children, what can we do to avoid mental illnesses?

What are some of the ways you could do as parents, and as adults, to keep yourself and your family’s overall well-being and mental health in check?

Becoming a parent makes your situation more complicated as you are constantly worried, but the essential practices of keeping a healthy mental state are still applicable to you.

Have A Safe Outlet For Your Thoughts And Feelings

Most of the common reasons for mental health problem root from long-suppressed feelings. Leaving our feelings unaddressed is a recipe for a breaking point in the future of our family life.

When we push our feelings under the bed, it does not go away. It seeps into the surface in other and possibly more toxic forms.

Having emotions, however negative, is part of being human. Being a parent is not supposed to make you immune from having bad feelings. What is important is that we process it, we express it in a healthy way from which we will try to resolve it.

By doing so, you can avoid having suicidal thoughts or social withdrawal from other members of your families and other families in your circle.

You can keep a diary or a journal to write about your feelings and mental health state. Writing can be liberating and reflexive. Through writing your feelings, you can gradually understand where they’re coming from, and it can serve as a buffer to your emotions and irrational bursting out.

An outlet can also be your friends and other close relationships whom you can trust and talk, and are comfortable sharing your feelings with. Lastly, find professional services and treatment resources to better address and cope with your emotions.

Find An Activity That Makes You Feel Good

When we become parents, we do not stop being ourselves in the family. Despite the busy schedule and the mounting responsibilities in the family, we still deserve some ‘me’ time at this age.

Not being able to do so may negatively affect our well-being and mental health. So, no matter how challenging the health conditions and situation are, try to schedule your week to squeeze in a day or a few hours dedicated to yourself so you can focus on only you. 

Try not to stop doing the activities and hobbies you enjoy before as young adults before becoming starting a family. For example, you might be a music enthusiast and you used to play a lot, or maybe you are a fitness geek and you work out regularly, or an artist and you enjoy painting or drawing.

Find time to do it even just for an hour. You can even lead a good example to your family members by taking care of yourself.

A simple break such as this can be a helpful breather to clean off your mind from time-to-time and just care for yourself without the friends and family burden. If in case it’s too much, learn more about your health information and seek mental health services.

Healthy Body: A Healthy Mind

Mental health may not be new to you, but as we all know, maintaining good physical health influences our mental health. On the one hand, physical discomfort and pain can negatively affect our mood and temper; it can either make us feel sad or easily irritated.

While on the other hand, a problem in our physical health can be a sign of a mental health problem. Some of these examples are having a headache, muscle pains, low pain tolerance, and fatigue. These symptoms can be a physical manifestation of mental health problems like stress, depression, and anxiety. If these occur, skip to main solutions or focus on main content and take care of yourself.

Aside from addressing the root causes of mental health problem, if there are any, keeping an active and healthy lifestyle would support and help alleviate these mental health problem. Proper exercise and proper sleeping and eating habits significantly improve your mood and ease your anxiety.

Conclusion On Family Mental Health

It is true when they say that to be able to love others, you must first love yourself. Being a parent can mean having a tantamount of work and household chores. So if you find yourself struggling, seek health services and consult a health professional.

We direct all our efforts to become a good parent, but we must remember that to be a good parent is to first be good in ourselves. Maintaining your mental and physical health is caring for your family.

Mental Health Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Mental Health Affect The Family?

Why Is Family Important To Mental Health?

Why Do The Other Family Members Need To Have A Strong Mental Health Emotionally Stable And Healthy Body?

Why Is It Important For The Family To Provide Emotional And Mental Health Support To Its Members?

Why Is It Important To Have An Emotional Support To Every Members Of The Family?

What Is The Value Of Family Love For The Mental Health?

How Does Spending Time With Family Help Mental Health?

How To Deal With A Family Member With Mental Health Issues?

How Do You Explain Mental Health Issues To Parents?

Why Is It important To Take Care Of Your Family Mental Health Essay?

Why Is It Important To Promote Family Mental Health?

Why Family Mental Health Is Important In Our Life Essay?

How Can You Prevent Family Mental Health Problems?

How Can I Improve My Family’s Mental And Emotional Health?

How Would You Take Care Of Your Family Mental Health?

The international community was given warnings about an ongoing outbreak in Wuhan, Province of Hubei, China, on December 31, 2019. The first death occurred on January 9, 2020, while on January 13, the first case outside China was recorded – it was in Thailand.

By February 11, the virus was officially called COVID-19 and was formally declared a pandemic on March 11.

Since then, several countries have been limiting land, sea, and air entry to its borders, restricting movement and mass gathering of its current residents through quarantine protocols, and refocusing resources to respond to both suspected and positive cases.

As infection and mortality rates go up, aspects of living as a society and as individuals are being sacrificed to ensure that countries and communities are flattening the curve. 

Flattening the curve is the phenomenon in which a particular country or community has been able to slow down infection rates up to a point where its healthcare or hospital capacity can manage all infected and suspected cases.

It can also be said that flattening of the curve is successful if the recovery rate has overtaken the infection rate. Health experts have stated that flattening of the curve is essential to beat this pandemic.

Changes Brought About By The Pandemic

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), one way of avoiding getting infected (or, infecting others) is to practice social distancing by maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people unless necessary. This is to ensure that we do not infect nor get infected during our interactions with others. 

Since COVID-19 spreads via coughs, sneezes, or water droplets from conversing during interaction with infected individuals, national and local governments, offices, and communities have closed down or limited headcount in establishments.

Governments started enforcing work from home setup, deferred payment penalties for credits and loans and promoted contactless and online transactions. It has impacted family life, and the economy as more and more citizens are staying home than going out. 

Families are now deemed to be closer than ever as parents and children are ‘stuck’ at home and have spent more time together during this crisis. On the positive side of this quarantine, many families have found new hobbies and leisure time to enjoy with each other. 

As this is the first time in the modern era that strict public health protocols are implemented for a prolonged period, it led to economic stagnation, which, in turn, resulted to layoffs of companies especially for non-essential personnel, and to some extent, the shutdown of operations or declaration of bankruptcy.

The surge in unemployment caused an escalation in terms of magnitude and the number of individuals suffering from stress, anxiety, and depression.

The New Normal

We, as humans, have been known for our ways of adapting to change. The following are examples of measures implemented to jump-start the economy while preventing further spread of the virus:

1. Wearing of PPEs and using protective barriers for personnel that need to face customers.
2. Disinfecting of hands and equipment which are continuously used.
3. Promoting and installing contactless or online transactions and payment methods.
4. Checking of temperatures of customers or personnel entering an establishment.
5. For businesses in the food industry, restaurants or fast-food chains are either cutting seating capacity to maintain distancing (one person per table, installment of barriers between guests) within their establishments. Some have gone to the extent of only accepting delivery or food-to-go.
6. Avoiding face-to-face meetings and opting for online alternatives (e-learning, webinars, online consultations).
7. Appointments are now vital for essential services instead of queueing in line for ease in crowd control and contact tracing.
8. Alternating between personnel that will go to their respective offices.

   

   Adapting To The New Normal In Our Households And Various Common Spaces

   According to Robert Leahy, Ph.D., of the New York and Clinical Professor of Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College, “We are currently facing a pandemic and in various regions across the world, people are following similar lockdowns, shutdowns, or social distancing.”

   He adds, “We have to look at this by putting in perspective that to win the battle against COVID-19 we must make sacrifices and develop a coping mindset.” He also listed the following steps that can be taken to ease mental stability:

   a. Give Yourself A Break

   Since we are all experiencing a change in how we live in the modern era, one must learn to accept that, although the virus and pandemic are temporary, the changes brought about it in terms of our manner of living will be our new reality and will require a different lens or perspective to accept it.

   When we encounter hurdles in adjusting and taking, accept them as they are. An example of which is juggling or maintaining a boundary in one’s personal home-working environment and attending to the needs of others living within the same households, especially the elderly and children who are more susceptible to the virus.

   b. Be Kind And Practice Acceptance

   One must keep in mind that in a household or community, one is not alone. We are all going through the same changes but with different levels of adjustment and coping mechanisms. Hence, approaching or dealing with others must be done with humility and politeness. To achieve this, one may do the following:

   c. View Life As A Narrative

   Looking at life as if it were a book with chapters and plots will give one a sense of control in a seemingly helpless situation. This will help with the adjustment of coping mechanisms and change in perspective for this chapter.

   In Conclusion

   While we move forward and transition to either the ‘new normal’ or ‘original normal’ way of living, COVID-19 is seen as a disease that will most likely stay—coping with it, both physically and mentally, is a way to survive this pandemic.

After two months of waiting, the local government units have announced that they will lift the stay-at-home order. It entails that everyone can return to their old lives, albeit not entirely. You still need to maintain a social distance with others to ensure that you can evade the coronavirus if you meet an asymptomatic person.

This new policy is admittedly suitable for working adults. However, it may be too much for kids, given that they are prone to catching the coronavirus. If you allow them to jump back on their former routine, which probably consists of playing outside for hours, you might as well give the virus a warm welcome. 

Your children can only stay safe if you:

Avoid Letting Them Go To Public Places

The first thing you should do is avoid taking your children to public places. Most—if not all—schools promise to continue with the homeschool system until there is a vaccine for coronavirus, so they don’t need to go out. Some zoos and malls may reopen, too, but the kids may encounter asymptomatic individuals and catch the disease.

The little ones may protest when you do that, claiming that they are fed up with staying at home. However, you should not give in to their pouts. Limiting their destination is one of the most effective ways to ensure that the coronavirus will not affect them.

Make Sure Their Face Mask Is Always On

The end of quarantine makes people assume that our battle with COVID-19 is over, that we have already won. The number of new positive cases may no longer be soaring high, but we are not close to the end of this pandemic yet. The governments have merely lifted their stay-at-home order because the economy has taken a nosedive.

Given that the coronavirus still exists, your children should have a face mask on, even when they are playing at the backyard. No one can see the virus with the naked eyes, after all. It is better to be slightly overprotective than to find your kids fighting COVID-19.

Arrange Playdates With The Same Children

Considering your town has not been affected by the outbreak too much, you may arrange playdates for your children. However, it is not ideal to let them play with different peers every week, even if doing so can improve their social skills. Instead, you should check with their friends’ parents if they are open to playing exclusively with each other.

Others may call you snobbish for doing so, but try not to mind them. You are merely arranging playdates with the same children to ensure that your babies will not interact with different kids and adults often. It will reduce their chances of acquiring the coronavirus, for sure.

Teach Proper Sanitation

It is typical for the little ones to touch whatever they see on automatic, even when they do not leave the family property. E.g., the doorknob, railings, poles, mailboxes, etc. If your children are too young to understand that they should not do that, you may teach them how to disinfect their hands.

This technique matters especially if most fixtures and accessories at home are metal. You see, the virus may stay on the surface for a few days and infect as many people as possible. In case your youngsters do not know proper sanitation, the lack of knowledge may make them susceptible to the disease. 

Final Thoughts

I know how much you and your kids want to have fun and let them enjoy their days post-quarantine. It’s everything that my children talk about these days, too. Still, let’s avoid socializing until the experts have synthesized a vaccine against COVID-19.