Improving Your Mental Health

Entering high school is tough for most kids; however, it's a lot tougher for a child with ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. There are ways of making the adjustment a little easier, though, as a concerned parent who wants their child to succeed.

1. Put Your Child In Touch With A Caring Counselor

A person doesn't always need to have a specific mental health problem to see a counselor, especially when it comes to figuring out how to fit in the social hierarchy of a high school setting, not to mention finding their place in the world in general. With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, though, school can be so challenging that grades suffer, leaving a kid feeling as though they don't belong there. A counselor can help in many ways, from learning exercises that increase focus to managing time and emotional energy more efficiently. 

2. Hire A Tutor To Help Your Child Do Better And Feel Better About Themselves

High school has more challenging subjects, and the more complicated the work is, the harder it may be for your child to focus. Consider hiring a tutor or calling on someone in the family to assist your high school student with the new material. Elevating confidence and, hopefully, grades will go a long way in making your child feel like they belong and can excel, rather than just squeak by.

3. Be Aware Of How Diet Affects Teenage Hormones

An imbalance of hormones, due to not eating well or missing sleep, can negatively affect a growing teen, but maybe even more so for a child with ADHD. Moods change quickly and dramatically, triggered sometimes by the physical state, which means eating well may work to avoid some behavioral episodes. Anything you can do to make your life easier and your child's perspective less tangled is a big plus, so promote healthy eating whenever possible.

4. Let Your Child Exhaust Their Physical And Creative Energy

ADHD may make you feel like climbing the wall, sometimes, but it's really your kid who needs to be climbing, running and otherwise exhausting all their pent-up energy. Encourage them to participate in a sport or at least have a bike or basketball and hoop to spend quality time with. Most kids, ADHD or not, will act up in one way or another if they haven't had the opportunity to exercise.

5. Keep The Family Bonds Tight, As Much As You Are Able

Teenagers tend to break away from their parents, often rebelling and wanting to do everything their own way; however, they still need the support and encouragement they've always found in the family. Make sure your child knows they can come to you for help, be it with school work, a class bully or a major crush, whether or not you think they'll actually take you into their confidence with such matters. Knowing you're there for them means a lot, even if they never let you know

High school should be a time of intellectual expansion and social exploration, but it's hard for a student with attention problems. As a parent, it's difficult, too, although having ways to help makes it a little easier for everyone. You can also work with professionals who offer ADHD help.