parenting suspected ADHD child

[heartstringz]

How can I cope better with parenting my suspected ADHD 6 year old?

Waiting lists for help are ridiculous.  12 months wait for a paediatrician.  Appointment is booked for late July 2024 (been waiting since early 2023)....

We can't wait any longer.  Our family is falling apart.  I can't cope with his behaviour NOW. I need help NOW. Not in another 6 months after already waiting a year.

Many professionals don't seem interested & just blame it on my parenting.  School thinks he needs to be assessed too though,  so clearly I'm not just a bad parent....🤦‍♀️

Costs are ridiculous & I'm running out of money.

My older child also has ADHD,  but it took 8 years to get him diagnosed as the waiting lists were ridiculous & many of the professionals didn't care. I'm struggling with parenting him too. 

We can't afford therapy for both kids at the same time unfortunately, so one doesn't get help.  Thanks to the disgusting costs....

Neither child is eligible for NDIS.....

Honestly I'm about to have a breakdown.  I can't cope anymore.  

[Sophie_M]

Hi heartstringz, 

Thank you for sharing your story here. We can hear that you are going through an incredibly tough time, it may seem like cold comfort from where you are but please know the community is here for you. It sounds like you are a really caring and supportive parent but everyone has their limits and it sounds like there is alot of pressue on you and not a lot of support. It sounds like you’ve taken some incredibly important steps in supporting both of your children but interacting with support resources has been a challenge. 

It’s so important, that while caring for your child, you are aware of your own emotional wellbeing. Please remember to reach out any time you feel you are struggling, to the Beyond Blue helpline on 1300 22 4636, or you can reach our counsellors via webchat, here.   Our friends at ParentLine may be able to offer some support as they often provide support to parents who may be struggling with a variety of issues, especially when it comes to seeking help for their child's mental health. They can be contacted on 1300 30 1300 or https://parentline.com.au/

Another option may be finding a support ground as many parents as currently going through similar difficulties in light of the waiting lists to access services. 

Again, we are sorry that we may not have the answers you need but we hope that by knowing you can share here or speak to our counsellors that is of some comfort for you. Please continue to share here, whenever you feel comfortable. You never know how your story might help others who can relate to what you’re going through.   

Kind regards, 

Sophie M