503- The Journey to Independence: A Parent’s Guide to Delayed Adulthood with ADHD
May 21, 2024
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Dr. Anthony Rostain offers practical advice to parents supporting emerging adults with ADHD. Topics include communication, executive functioning, independence, supporting dreams, dealing with trauma, medication management, and co-parenting alignment.
Transitioning to adulthood with ADHD may take longer, requiring parental support without enabling.
The concept of adulthood has shifted, with emerging adulthood extending into one's 30s for individuals, especially those with ADHD.
Young adults with ADHD face challenges in identity exploration, mental health issues, and external stressors, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support and adaptive interventions.
Deep dives
Understanding the Transition to Adulthood for Teens and Young Adults with ADHD
Many older teens and young adults with ADHD face challenges in transitioning to adulthood, taking longer to reach milestones like moving out, completing education, and achieving financial stability. Dr. Anthony Rothstein discusses factors that hinder independence for young adults with ADHD and emphasizes the importance of parental support without enabling counterproductive behaviors.
Defining Adulthood and Evolving Milestones
The concept of adulthood and its associated milestones have shifted over time. Where once people were expected to finish their education, start a career, become financially independent, and have a family by their mid-20s, the emerging adulthood period now extends into one's 30s. Young people, especially those with ADHD, experience delays in achieving these milestones, highlighting the need for a revised understanding of adulthood and its timelines.
Challenges and Themes in Emerging Adulthood
Young adults engage in identity exploration, facing instability, self-preoccupation, ambivalence, and hope about the future. Factors such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and excessive digital media usage contribute to the complexities of this life stage. The prevalence of anxiety disorders, especially among individuals with ADHD, underscores the importance of addressing mental health challenges in emerging adults.
Impact of External Factors on Young Adults
External factors like the pandemic, increased stress, and societal changes have heightened mental health challenges for young adults, particularly Gen Z individuals. Rising rates of depression, anxiety, and mood disorders underscore the need for comprehensive support and interventions. Understanding distorted thinking patterns and promoting adaptive thinking are crucial in addressing mental health concerns in young adults.
Navigating Challenges in Parenting Young Adults
Parenting young adults with ADHD involves navigating various issues, including promoting independence, managing medications, and addressing oppositional behaviors. Techniques such as motivational interviewing, fostering self-awareness, and promoting executive function skills are essential in supporting young adults in their journey to independence. Collaborative and compassionate parenting approaches can help young adults overcome challenges and thrive.
Some individuals with ADHD take longer to achieve independence than do their peers. Anthony Rostain, M.D., offers practical advice to parents who are struggling to support their 20-something kids during the prolonged transition known as emerging adulthood.
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