Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults, impacting their ability to focus, regulate impulses, and manage hyperactivity. While the term is commonly used, understanding the complexities of ADHD is crucial for fostering empathy, providing effective support, and seeking necessary treatments.
If you suspect your child has ADHD or have already received a diagnosis, it’s important to understand that ADHD is not your fault. It is not because of anything you did or did not do or because you can’t connect with your child.
In this blog, we will explore the history of ADHD and impulse disorders, what ADHD is, and what you can do for your child once you receive an official diagnosis or they display symptoms.
BLOOM is a great adjunct to therapy and medication. It can be used as a continuation of 1:1 therapy by bringing it into the life of the home and family which maximizes the benefits of therapy. In many cases, people have used BLOOM before therapy to give them child-raising awareness on both behavioral and developmental areas and therefore preempt the need for therapy. Transform what therapy looks like for your child by accessing our new courses, ADHD and Attention, easily from your home.
The History of ADHD
ADHD was first identified in the early 1900s as an impulse disorder known as hyperkinetic disorder. Then, it turned into ADD before being referred to as ADHD in the 1980’s.
While ADHD can be genetic, it can also be caused by trauma. In many cases, children inherit genetic ADHD traits, which are compounded by experiencing trauma or anxiety in their life at a young age from having ADHD. The trauma and anxiety typically stems from not being understood and the challenge of the difference between expectations of them and the capabilities they have.
After autism was first diagnosed in 1977 and became an official diagnosis in 1980, it was then established as a disability in 1990. Since 1990, it has become much easier for children and teens who are diagnosed with autism and ADHD to get special services and accommodations, especially in school.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), and/or be overly active.
It’s a condition that’s very widespread and not a one-size-fits-all condition. Because ADHD often coexists with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities, accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and treatment.
ADHD isn’t just about occasional forgetfulness or restlessness–it significantly impacts daily life. Difficulties in academic or work settings, relationships, and time management struggles are common. Recognizing these challenges fosters a more supportive environment for those with ADHD.
Why is Getting ADHD Diagnosed a Positive?
While there can be a negative connotation with ADHD, parents should understand that getting their child or teen properly diagnosed in today’s world is actually a positive. Why is this?
- Some negative feelings about not being enough, go away.
- Authority figures (parents, teachers, etc) understand what’s going on and can adjust their expectations and how they deal with your child. This increases understanding and success for the individual.
- There is treatment for ADHD. From the countless tips, tricks, and exercises BLOOM provides in the courses, medication, or both. People like medication because you can customize your child’s life somewhat (i.e. have them take the med when they need to focus and not take it on off days when they are relaxing and having fun).
A diagnosis of ADHD or ADD is not anyone’s fault or caused by any one action. However, you can help your child's healing process by reducing your stress and better connecting with your child. By addressing your own trauma, you can increase your ability to connect and how you connect–which only helps your child.
Resources to Support Your Child With ADHD
Understanding ADHD goes beyond surface-level awareness. It involves recognizing the diversity within the disorder and providing empathetic support to those navigating its challenges. By fostering deeper understanding, we can contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society for individuals with ADHD.
As you look to support your child with ADHD, BLOOM can be used in conjunction with 1:1 therapy by integrating it into your home and family. Maximize the benefits of therapy by using BLOOM alone, or as the therapy itself, all from the comfort of your home. Our courses, Attention and ADHD, will help you best support your child with ADHD while also addressing your own traumas as a parent.
