Neighbor News
For Children with ADHD and Depression, Focus on Strengths
Dr. Clatch writes about the importance of focusing on a child's strengths when they have been diagnosed with ADHD, depression, or both.
The comorbid development of ADHD and depression can be proactively addressed through efforts to focus on the strengths of the child. Following an initial diagnosis of ADHD, children may develop a number of negative feelings or perceptions about themselves. Proactively addressing these issues requires the clinician, parents and teachers to help create an environment in which a positive self-image of the child can thrive, despite the diagnosis. This can be done through a number of different supports, which should be considered as integral to the treatment of a child with ADHD:
- A strengths-based approach: Treatment of the child with ADHD should focus on the child’s strengths. A focus on strengths will help the child view him or herself positively.
- Building emotional intelligence: Helping the child to control impulsivity and emotions can be achieved by teaching emotional intelligence (EI). EI can make children aware of the mood states of others, promoting responses that are better suited to a situation.
- Develop a family exercise routine: Physical activity continues to be an incredibly helpful tool in managing the symptoms of both ADHD and depression in individuals of all ages. Family activities like going for a woods walk or throwing a ball around in the yard are not only motivational to the children, but can also raise the morale of the entire household.
- Consider therapy: Therapy can help children diagnosed with ADHD and depression develop positive coping and communication skills.
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