ADHD support groups provide safe and understanding spaces to discuss the challenges and successes of living with the condition. They can be found in communities and online.
A professional facilitator, such as a therapist or social worker with expertise in ADHD, leads many groups. Others are peer-led.
They Help You Understand Your Symptoms
Having ADHD can cause you to miss appointments, forget important tasks and make impulsive decisions. These behaviors can strain even the most forgiving co-workers, friends and partners. ADHD support groups help you understand why these problems occur so that you can find ways to cope.
The therapist facilitating the group can provide structure, guidance and specialized knowledge. They can also guide discussions and mediate conflicts among participants. Some support groups meet in person, while others connect online through chat platforms or video conferences. The ADHD Association offers in-person and virtual support groups for adults with ADHD, parents of children with ADHD and non-ADHD partners.
Support groups can also teach you how to communicate your needs to loved ones so that they can help you better. For example, if you’re struggling with chores around the house, your partner can help by recognizing that your difficulties are related to ADHD. They may even suggest strategies for helping you overcome your challenges. This is a powerful way to improve your relationship by making it more compassionate and understanding.
They Help You Learn New Strategies
ADHD symptoms can have a wide-ranging impact on a person’s life. They affect work performance, driving skills, relationship stability and many other domains in a unique way. A support group provides an environment where you can learn strategies for managing these challenges from others who live with them.
For example, if you’re struggling with forgetfulness, an ADHD support group can teach you organizational strategies that can help you manage these problems. In addition, groups can offer classes on various topics, such as conflict resolution and problem-solving techniques, that may help deal with challenges associated with ADHD.
CHADD also offers a variety of virtual support groups, including ones for adults, teachers, families and individuals living with the condition. For more information on these and other opportunities, visit our online community. You can also become a member today to stay up-to-date with research advancements and tips for managing ADHD. It’s free to join and makes a difference! Your donation helps us continue our mission to improve lives by improving the understanding of ADHD.
They Help You Feel Less Alone
People with ADHD often feel alone because their family and friends don’t understand the condition. In an ADHD support group, people can talk about how they feel in a safe place and receive empathy from others with similar experiences. This can help them realize that they’re not alone and give them hope for the future.
For parents, ADHD support groups can provide a space to share ideas with other parents who have children with attention deficit disorder. Parents can also learn from each other by discussing different coping strategies and treatment options that have worked for them. For example, an ADHD mom may be able to tell other mothers how they made their child’s school more ADHD-friendly and what activities helped make parenting their child easier.
There are many options for finding ADHD support groups in your area. Professionals lead some groups, while others are peer-led. Some are offered in person, while others meet online. In addition, some employee assistance programs (EAPs) offer resources and financial assistance to employees who participate in mental health support groups.
They Help You Build Social Connections
ADHD symptoms can make it difficult to maintain relationships and friendships. However, people can overcome these challenges with the right resources and live fulfilling lives. One such resource is a support group. Whether you are an adult struggling to understand your ADHD symptoms or a parent of children with the disorder, these groups can help you develop valuable social connections and learn from other members.
Many support groups are led by a professional facilitator familiar with ADHD. Others are peer-led, which can provide an informal setting with shared experiences. In addition to the benefits of social connection, participants can learn about new strategies and coping skills from other members.
In addition to providing social support, ADHD support groups can offer educational materials and guest speakers. They may discuss various aspects of living with ADHD, such as financial issues, finding culturally competent mental health services, and overcoming stigma. In a recent study, parents reported that they enjoyed group visits because they allowed them to discuss concerns about their child’s diagnosis and access to services. Additionally, other families with similar experiences can be comforting and reassuring.
They Help You Find Support Groups in Your Area
In addition to providing validation and empathy, support groups offer many practical tips and strategies for managing ADHD symptoms. Many groups are led by a trained professionals with experience working with individuals with ADHD or mental health conditions. Still, others are peer-led and may offer more in-depth knowledge and understanding of their members’ experiences.
If you’re ready to connect with others who manage ADHD symptoms, check out local and regional meetings sponsored by national ADD organizations. Many of these organizations host regional networking events, and some offer online forums convenient for people who live far away or have a busy schedule.
Several online resources and support groups cater to specific topics or interests, such as parents with ADHD children, women with ADHD, or adults with undiagnosed ADHD. Make sure to find a safe group that respects confidentiality before you join! You can also ask your therapist or ADHD coach to recommend groups. If you can’t find a group, consider starting your own.
