Kids Awareness Series

The number one thing I hear from children and adults with ADHD in counseling is-”I can’t get along with others at home or work” or “I can’t seem to keep friends.”  As a result of the impulsivity, distractibility, and hyperactivity that accompanies ADHD (not necessarily all at the same time folks), individuals with ADHD often have difficulty maintaining relationships.  Many children with ADHD are teased because they appear to be different especially when they are hyperactive and seem to be “all over the place” as one parent recently told me.  Children and adults with ADHD often are in arguments with those around them as a result of the impulsivity.  Our words often get us in trouble and when you do not think before you say something, problems usually ensue.  Children with ADHD often have difficulty waiting their turn and this is not popular with other children and causes problems in keeping friends.  In addition, ADHD children and adults are sensitive to noises and to being touched and this will often cause social isolation in an ADHD’r trying to isolate themselves from others in order to cope.  Also, in children and in adults they often have low self-esteem as a result of the problems that ADHD can cause in their relationships.  When you do not feel good about yourself you certainly do not want to be around other people alot of the time and you isolate yourself.  These are only some of the issues that are encountered in psychotherapy with ADHD children and adults and through effective medical and psychological treatment, these issues that affect relationships can be overcome.

3 Responses to “ADHD and the Impact on our Relationships”