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Advocating for Your Child and Yourself: Navigating Appointments, Therapies, and Medications

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By Editorial Team

Last Updated:

It takes a lot of strength to care for a child with ADHD. You are their biggest supporter.

You also need to take care of yourself. This article will help you understand how to advocate for your child and yourself. It will give you tips for appointments, therapies, and medications. It will also help you talk to doctors and understand treatment choices.

Being your child's advocate

Your child needs you to speak up for them. They might not know how to explain what they are feeling. You see them every day. You know when something is not right. Here are some ways to be a good advocate:1

  • Learn about ADHD – The more you know, the better you can help your child. Understand the symptoms and how they affect your child. Read books and articles from trusted sources. Talk to other parents.
  • Keep good records – Write down your child's symptoms, behaviors, and any questions you have. Bring this information to appointments. This helps doctors understand what is happening over time.
  • Ask questions – Do not be afraid to ask doctors and therapists questions. Make sure you understand their answers. If you do not understand something, ask them to explain it again.
  • Trust your instincts – You know your child best. If you feel something is wrong, say something. Do not let anyone dismiss your concerns.
  • Work as a team – You, your child, teachers, therapists, and doctors should all work together. Share information and talk about what is working and what is not.

Navigating appointments

Doctor and therapy appointments are important for children with ADHD. Here are some tips to make them easier:1,2

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  • Prepare before the appointment – Write down your questions and concerns. Talk to your child about what to expect.
  • Be on time – This shows respect for the doctor's or therapist's time. It also gives you more time to talk.
  • Take notes – Write down what the doctor or therapist says. This will help you remember the information later.
  • Be honest – Tell the doctor or therapist everything, even if it is hard. This will help them give your child the best care.
  • Follow up – If the doctor orders tests or suggests changes, make sure you follow through. Call if you have more questions after the appointment.

This or That

When communicating with school, which do you prefer?

Understanding therapies

Therapy can help children with ADHD learn important skills. Here are some common types of therapy:1-3

  • Behavioral therapy – This therapy helps children learn how to manage their behavior. They learn strategies for things like paying attention and controlling impulses. You might also learn ways to help your child at home.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – CBT helps children understand their thoughts and feelings. They learn how their thoughts affect their actions. This can help with anxiety and frustration that can sometimes come with ADHD.
  • Occupational therapy – This therapy can help with sensory issues and fine motor skills. Some children with ADHD have trouble with these things.
  • Social skills training – This helps children learn how to interact with others. They practice things like sharing and taking turns.

Managing medications

Medication can be a helpful part of ADHD treatment for some children. It is important to understand your options.1-3

  • Talk to the doctor – Only a doctor can prescribe medicine for ADHD. Ask about the different types of medicine. Understand how they work and what the possible side effects are.
  • Types of medicine – There are stimulant and non-stimulant medicines for ADHD. Stimulants are the most common. They help with focus and reduce impulsivity. Non-stimulants work differently in the brain and can take longer to have an effect.
  • Dosage and timing – It is important to give your child the medicine exactly as the doctor prescribes. Understand when to give the medicine and what the right dose is.
  • Monitor side effects – Pay attention to how your child is acting after starting medicine. Tell the doctor about any side effects. They might need to adjust the dose or change the medicine.
  • Do not stop suddenly – Talk to the doctor before stopping any medicine. Stopping suddenly can cause problems.

Taking care of yourself

Caring for a child with ADHD can be stressful. It is important to take care of your own well-being, too.1

  • Find support – Connect with other parents who have children with ADHD. Support groups can offer understanding and advice.
  • Make time for yourself – Even a little bit of time for yourself can make a big difference. Do things you enjoy to relax and recharge.
  • Eat healthy and exercise – Taking care of your physical health can help your mental health.
  • Get enough sleep – Being tired can make it harder to cope with stress.
  • Ask for help – Do not be afraid to ask for help from family, friends, or professionals.

Advocating for your child and yourself is not always easy. Remember to stay informed, communicate clearly, and take care of yourself along the way.1