Journey...

I just realized I never posted on this topic. A while back when my FH was diagnosed as ADHD (after him saying that he thinks he may have it, but wasnt sure. And after forcing him to visit with a psychiatrist [he had fears of being labeled a looney....]), and doing intensive research into finding the best psychiatrist possible, and being diagnosed, his family refused to accept that. He told his family because I figured it would help to have supportive people around him. His family would be more understanding, and after all it is his family. Why not tell them. BAD MOVE. His parents and siblings were telling him that all he needs to do was go and speak to the pastor (they are christians). That psychiatrists are just about making money. That they (psychiatrist/ medical doctors) are wrong. That all he needs to do is, "try harder." That in terms of how he views his vulnerability to "always mess up. And always forget" means that he needs to forgive and love himself. They tried really hard. We then decided to cease all talk about ADHD with his family. And I am happy that we did. The difference between medication and no medication is huge!! In some of his therapy sessions he has even worked on how he perceives himself (cognitive therapy).  No amount of "learning to love ones self"could have helped him.  That implies he does not love him ( he does not HATE himself, he HATES being forgetful, and making mistakes- there is a difference). That was on a neurobiological and cognitive level.... He has learnt ways to cope with these issues. I think his family thought they would loose their to blame him for his shortcomings, of no longer having their beloved scapegoat. I am pleased that after they finished crying (yes some members of his family did cry), they realized that he is an adult, and is more than capable of making his own decisions.

 

It is interesting though, how someone who views life in a positive way, can still be gloomy. Or atleast I find it interesting. FH is the sweetest, I'll-take-the-shirt-off-my-back-and-give-it-to-you, understanding, empathetic person I know. Now he is not as gloomy as prior to his diagnosis. Actually using some of the techniques his dr suggested has actually helped him complete tast prior to the deadline. Baby steps though...  Hopefully one day he does not decide to stop treatment and refuse seeing his doctor.

 

Let's take this one step at a time...