Navigating ADHD without Parental Support
Dealing with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a teen can be incredibly challenging, especially when you don’t have the support of your parents. Many teens struggle to function in academic and social environments due to ADHD, but what do you do when your mom doesn’t believe in ADHD and won’t allow you to get tested?
Recognizing ADHD Symptoms
It’s important to first understand the signs and symptoms of ADHD. ADHD is characterized by three major symptoms: severe attention deficit, severe hyperactivity, and severe behavioral control issues. For ADHD to truly be a diagnosis, these symptoms must be incredibly severe and persistent. This level of severity would be impossible to miss; parents would have noticed challenges from birth, and teachers would have seen consistent issues throughout your academic career.
Is ADHD Real? How to Tell
There are two main scenarios to consider. The first is that you don’t have ADHD, and your mom is correct. In the majority of cases, kids and teens misdiagnose themselves based on normal developmental behaviors. However, the second possibility is that you do have ADHD, but your parents might either be in denial or unaware of the issue.
Do You Have the Symptoms?
To determine if you truly have ADHD, you need to assess whether you have the actual symptoms. Severe attention deficit, severe hyperactivity, and severe behavioral control issues must be present to consider a diagnosis. Severe attention deficit would mean you are almost unable to complete any work, your books are often empty, and you never do homework. Severe hyperactivity would involve constant fidgeting, talking, and difficulty staying seated. Severe behavioral control issues would include frequent trouble at school and significant impulse control problems.
If your parents don’t believe you, talk to your school. Teachers and administrators would have documented evidence of these issues if they were present. Severe ADHD symptoms would be obvious and persistent, present in all areas of your life and causing significant impairment.
Understanding Inborn and Life-Long Nature of ADHD
ADHD is an inborn brain disorder that manifests from a very young age and remains with you throughout your life. Those diagnosed with ADHD will have a range of severe symptoms that are very noticeable from a very early age. These symptoms affect every area of your life, making it very difficult to function daily.
If you truly have ADHD, you would have had these issues from a very young age. The symptoms must be severe and persistent, affecting all aspects of your life. For example, while it’s normal for teenagers to struggle to focus in school and have difficulty completing homework, those with ADHD might have empty books, frequently be called on in class to get back on task, and have multiple detentions or visits to the principal’s office.
Proceeding Without Parental Support
Even if your parents deny the existence of ADHD, it’s crucial to seek help regardless. Talk to your school counselor or therapist. They can provide additional support and guidance, and even help you navigate the process of getting a diagnosis if necessary. In many cases, once diagnosed, you can access necessary accommodations and resources that can make a significant difference in your academic and social life.
Remember, ADHD is a real and treatable condition. While your parents may not be supportive, there are professionals who can help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Take the first step by seeking professional support and don’t let parental denial hold you back.