Hi Scmic I enjoyed reading your post. In fact I feel very similar. I found this site mid last year and I only used it for a few messages but I didn't feel I got much out of it either. I dont think this is anyone's fault, its just there is such a large number of posts and each persons problems are (Obviously) very individual. I actually took a step back as I was becoming overwhelmed from all the messages and although I wanted to help I just didnt know where to start My son late last year got his formal diagnosis of ADHD and Autisum and I am still trying to navigate the "system" all the referrals, paperwork and NDIS. I don't think i am stupid but I am struggling to understand it all too. For me I think having someone I can talk to that has gone through something similar is of the most help. I have met one other parent (In person through a work friend) Her son also has ADHD and Autism of the same age so we have met a few times and I can say after leaving I felt so much better. Just to talk to someone that actually understands is priceless   I dont know that I or anyone here can help you but I can offer - as best as able, my ears if you need.  Good luck. I do hope you find even the smallest bit of help here. If not keep looking  ... View more

I'm sure there was fine print somewhere when we became parents saying something like "This isnt as easy as it looks!" but if so I know I certainly didnt bother to read it!  I can only imagine how difficult it must be with a 16 year old. Different sets of challenges and hurdles.  Are you and her father doing something to help yourselves? (Typical thing to do though isnt it as parents to continually put yourself last) I know that our relationship has been strained a lot in the last few years. We tend to agree on most things especially how we parent but just the constant pressure of managing behaviour and always watching/reminding/cautioning/assisting....its draining.  I've taken to doing a gym class every Sunday morning and this has now become a really healthy habbit for not just me but the whole family. It's early so I leave while they get a sleep in, I grab a coffee on my way home so I start the day feeling great. Energised. Calm. And I think my good mood rubs off on everyone else.  Doesnt always work that way I know but we can only hope and keep trying And no you and I are certainly not alone! :) ... View more

Hi @Taylor-RO  Thanks so much for the reply - it is really heartening to be heard! I checked out the links and yes they are very helpful! Looks like there is some online education/support groups which I am going to follow up.  Feeling much more optimistic :) I think for me the frustrating part is not so much my son's behaviour itself, its rather my lack of dealing with it. I'm guilty of growling at him for asking for the 10th time what the plans are for the day, or why he keeps forgetting to do certain jobs. It somehow seems harder when his sister is so opposite. We know we shouldn't compare children but the contrast is at times difficult. I just need to remind myself that he IS different. And simply telling him to "try harder" doesn't work. It's hard too in that his sister gets frustrated and although she is very forgiving and understanding she too can only take so much.  I look forward to reading and learning more as I feel like the more we as a family can manage our OWN behaviour then it will benefit all of us   ... View more

Hi everyone, I found this website after some googling (Where would we be without it right?)  Just feeling frustrated, alone and a little gloomy.  I have x2 12 year olds who are totally amazing. My daughter is neurotypical, however my son is currently undergoing assessment for ADHD and possible some ASD  He is just as funny, smart and amazing as my daughter however he struggles with so many aspects of life that Im sure we all take for granted. I never wanted to get him assessed as I didnt feel the need for labels however he is high-school next year and now I feel like having a diagnosis will help not only the school deal with him but all of us. Not sure what I am seeing here, maybe just someone to talk to and hopefully read from someone else who may be in a similar situation as me.  I'm from Tassie and there doesnt seem to be many support groups/information although I possibly am not looking in the right areas either!?  Thanks for listening :)  ... View more