At AdventHealth, we understand that there are many things beyond our control when it comes to why certain conditions affect some children. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a well-known condition that impacts many children, but it’s not as commonly known that ADHD tends to run in families. Often, one or more children in a family might be struggling with the same challenges that caused one or both of their parents to suffer as children, too.
As parents, it can be upsetting to see your child struggle with ADHD symptoms — and it’s even more difficult if you’re struggling with similar challenges while trying to help your child. That’s why we’re here to emphasize what you can control as you help your child navigate ADHD while also caring for you, including recognizing symptoms, steps to take, how to best support your child, yourself and more — together.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how the brain works. The name can be misleading, because ADHD doesn’t necessarily mean a lack of attention, but that it’s harder for the person to manage their attention or direct it to certain tasks. ADHD causes symptoms like difficulty focusing, trouble sitting still and impulsive behaviors. But it also allows individuals to hyperfocus on what they really enjoy.
Is ADHD Genetic?
ADHD is genetic, meaning a child is born with certain gene changes that cause differences in their brain development, or neurodiversity. Often, the gene changes that cause ADHD are passed down within biological families. Children with ADHD frequently have biological parents or siblings with the condition.
ADHD symptoms begin in childhood, usually between ages 3 and 6, and before age 12, and may continue into adulthood. Some people don’t get a diagnosis until they’re adults and end up making sense of their own situation when their child gets an ADHD diagnosis. There’s no cure for ADHD, but treatments like medications and behavioral therapies can help manage symptoms.
ADHD Parenting
If you’re one of many people who had ADHD as a child, but you were diagnosed as an adult (or suspect you have ADHD without yet having a formal diagnosis), you might notice similar symptoms in your child. You may be a parent with ADHD who is parenting a child with ADHD, which calls for extra special care and grace for you both. The task of parenting a child with ADHD is already taxing, but for parents who have the same condition, it can be doubly exhausting as they experience the symptoms from both ends.
Research shows that parents — mothers in particular — who have elevated ADHD symptoms have difficulties staying positive and keeping their emotions in check. They can also be inconsistent when it comes to their parenting style and how they discipline their kids, often saying one thing and doing another. Distracted parents also have challenges closely supervising their children, which can pose risks, given that children with ADHD tend to be accident-prone.
How Does a Parent With ADHD Affect a Child?
A parent and child who both have ADHD can be “the perfect storm.” The full-time job of parenting draws heavily on our brains’ “executive functions,” which are exercising good judgment, thinking ahead, being patient and keeping calm. When parents struggling with these challenges themselves have children who need guidance on the same issues, there are more likely to be more missed deadlines, accidental mishaps and emotional outbursts from all parties involved.
A parent with ADHD can significantly impact a child, with both positive and negative effects. While some parents with ADHD may exhibit challenges like inconsistent discipline or difficulty with organization, they can also bring unique strengths such as high energy, empathy and a deeper understanding of their child's emotional needs.
Children of parents with ADHD may experience difficulties with emotional regulation, social skills and academic performance due to the potential for inconsistent parenting and increased stress within the household. That’s why it’s crucial for well-being of both the parent and the child with ADHD to have a strong support system in place.
ADHD Resources for Parents
For parents seeking ADHD resources, several organizations and websites offer valuable information and support. CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a national non-profit providing parent-to-parent training, local support groups and advocacy tools. Another, ADDitude, offers expert-backed articles, ADHD management strategies, webinars and practical guides for parents.
Your Solid Support at Every Step
Here at AdventHealth, know you’re never alone. If you, your child or both are living with ADHD, we offer treatments to help you feel whole — from support groups or one-on-one therapy to advanced treatment and medication plans. No matter how you choose to reclaim the joy and confidence you deserve, our experienced team will be by your side with the expert care and support you need to feel healthy and whole.
To learn more about our behavioral health services, visit us here. You deserve to feel whole.
