The Power of Encouragement for Children Living With ADHD

The most important thing we can give children with ADHD is encouragement, genuine, heartfelt support that reminds them they are capable and valued.

These children often suffer deeply from low self-esteem. This emotional pain causes them to avoid challenges and tasks, not because they’re lazy or disinterested, but because they fear failure. They tell themselves, “If I try and fail again, I’ll feel even worse.”

And so, they stop trying. Their self-confidence drops even further. They avoid more things. And the cycle continues like a snowball gaining speed and weight. That’s why the first emotional support we must give them is help rebuilding their self-worth. For these children, self-esteem is as vital as air. And one of the best ways to build it is through encouragement and appreciation.

But as simple as that sounds, it’s not always easy to find someone who can give them this kind of support.

Why It’s Hard for Parents

Parents may love their child deeply, but it can still be incredibly difficult to offer constant encouragement.

First, parents are often in emotional pain themselves. They may feel worn down by the day-to-day challenges of raising a child with ADHD.

Second, parents are naturally invested. They see their child as a part of themselves, and when the child struggles or doesn’t succeed, it can feel like a personal failure. These feelings can make it hard to step back and focus on lifting the child up.

Why It’s Hard for Teachers

Teachers face their own challenges. A child with untreated ADHD who disrupts the class can create a difficult learning environment. Teachers may feel overwhelmed or frustrated, and their relationship with the child may become based only on warnings or punishments.

When strong emotions like these take over, it becomes very hard for the teacher to respond with encouragement and positive feedback even though the child desperately needs it.

Where Mentors Come In

This is why outside support is so important. Mentors or therapists can play a key role in helping children with ADHD feel understood and appreciated.

Mentors don’t carry the same emotional burden as parents or teachers. They aren’t juggling a classroom or feeling personally responsible for the child’s struggles. Their job is to be a consistent, calm, supportive presence and that’s exactly what these children need.

So if possible, make sure your child has someone in this kind of role. It can make a huge difference in their growth.

Whenever you can, express appreciation. Even if it feels a bit exaggerated, do it anyway. Children with ADHD need to hear it over and over again. And by the way, this kind of encouragement helps all children, not just those with ADHD.

What About Adults With ADHD?

Adults with ADHD need encouragement too. But in many cases, they must take responsibility for getting it. That might mean reaching out for professional help, learning more about their own condition, or even asking a friend or mentor for support.

And let’s not forget the parents. Raising a child with ADHD is demanding, and parents should also consider seeking guidance and emotional support. You don’t have to do this alone.