Looking for support

[Storme1]

Hi. I am a former foster parent who now has legal custody of my nephew for the last 6.5 years. My husband and I are looking for a parent support group that discusses mental health challenges and disabilities of adolescent children. Any information is much appreciated. Thank you.

[MrsKlco]

Hello and welcome...I'm sorry for the struggles adopting your sweet nephew. In the end, it will be worth the time and effort.

The only experience I have is when my roommate had to adopt her three grandchildren. The process was very volatile. With three different fathers/families, mother who was in addiction, and her multiple attempts for recovery. But in the end, I think my roommate did her best to shield the kids from the craziness and has done the best she could.

Best wishes to you and your family. Please reach out and ask any questions, ya never know who might have great insight and/or virtual hug for you.

Take care and write soon.

Renee

[Storme1 in reply to MrsKlco]

Thank you for your warm welcome. I appreciate your note. Thank you for sharing the story about your roommate. Hopefully, they are all doing well.

The biggest struggle is the ADHD challenges which also mimic PTSD. It's difficult to differentiate which challenge he is suffering from at any given moment. He sees a therapist weekly, with family therapy twice a month . He also has a psychiatrist monthly.

I'm hoping to find a support group specifically for caretakers that have children who suffer from ADHD to better support my son.

[MrsKlco in reply to Storme1]

Glad to hear that you are taking advantage of all kinds of support. If I can, please read about how to support people/children in "trauma". If you haven't already.

I work with adults suffering with addiction. Lets face it, they are suffering more often from trauma. Anyway, I have found that pulling my clients in closer, fighting for them (many times in front of them...brag about their accomplishments, etc.) Not fake...but many times they do not trust and that is a great way I gain that trust.

Your little man is caught in the cross fire, pull him in, hold on tight, and keep reaching out!!

Renee

[Mama808]

Hi blessings to you and your family.

My medical insurance gave me great directions on where to go.

My pediatrician also gave direction.

[anirush]

I have two teenage grandsons who have lived with me for years off and on. One has a 504 and one an IEP. One is stable and in a tough academic program. The other has major anxiety and anger management issues. Hope we can all help you. Both have been diagnosed with ADHD and mood disorders NOS.

[ADHD_DAD]

hi. I was looking for a support group for my wife and while I found nothing (outside of Facebook which isn't our thing) I found this group. Ironically, I am the one who participates rather than her (still looking for her). I have enjoyed reading about the experiences of others and the advice that others offer in response. For me, breaks from this group too, are necessary and helpful. Periodically posts go in what I perceive as a negative direction and I stepped away for nearly a year. I have enjoyed reading the posts since my recent return and it seems like something about the shared experience of covid and its affect upon schools and families has caused people to be more supportive and less critical of one another. I guess I am recommending that you try this group to see if it offers the support you seek. Good luck to you and your family.