Growing up, I was taught that family matters were private affairs, confined to the walls of our home. Discussions about emotions or struggles were kept within our living room, much like an elegant piece of art. I believed that every family conflict could be solved internally, as I had learned that love and unity would see us through any challenge.
However, when my son was diagnosed with anxiety, ADHD, and Asperger’s (now known as ASD) at eight years old, I quickly discovered that this was a battle I couldn’t face alone. My denial made it difficult to accept the new reality, and I thought that our strong family bond was enough to navigate this journey. But as I grappled with my feelings, it became clear that I needed support—not just for my son, but for my wife and myself.
It took time for me to understand that my wife and I had different perspectives on how to deal with our son’s diagnosis. I was reluctant to seek outside help, believing I could manage everything myself. Yet, I soon realized that the love and care we had for our son were not enough to resolve his challenges. It was a humbling awakening that led me to seek guidance from professionals and connect with other families like ours.
Kelli Johnson and her husband faced a similar situation when their son was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. In response, Kelli established The SonRise Project, a supportive community for parents navigating their children’s mental health issues. This initiative serves as a vital resource, offering guidance and camaraderie to those in need.
Statistics from the CDC show that approximately 7.1% of children aged 3-17 are diagnosed with anxiety disorders, while 1.9 million kids in the same age group are affected by depression. The prevalence of ADHD is even higher, impacting 6.1 million children in the U.S. alone.
As a parent, it’s essential to be attentive to your child’s behavior and trust your instincts. Symptoms of mental health issues can vary, but some signs to look out for include:
- Excessive worrying or fear
- Persistent sadness
- Difficulty concentrating or learning
- Extreme mood swings
- Social withdrawal
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Substance abuse
- Thoughts of self-harm
Accepting my son’s diagnoses took many late-night discussions with my wife, research, and the wisdom of others who had faced similar struggles. Our journey mirrored that of the Johnsons, highlighted by the vital role of community support in helping our families navigate these challenges.
The SonRise Project offers parents valuable resources for supporting their children’s mental health, including a podcast that empowers families dealing with similar issues. There’s a wealth of information available, from recognizing mental health problems to managing addiction. As parents, we must keep the conversation going—sharing our experiences can provide comfort and solutions for one another.
Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health discussions and foster an environment where parents and children feel supported. We are not alone in this journey, and neither are our kids.
If you’re interested in learning more about family support during mental health challenges, you can explore one of our other blog posts here. For further reading on home insemination, check out this authoritative source on at-home kits here. Additionally, for those considering fertility treatments, this resource from Johns Hopkins is highly recommended.
Search Queries:
- How to support a child with anxiety
- Signs of ADHD in children
- Mental health resources for parents
- Understanding Asperger’s Syndrome
- Finding support for special needs families
In summary, I learned the hard way that facing our son’s mental health challenges alone was not an option. Seeking help and connecting with others made all the difference for our family, and I encourage other parents to do the same.
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