VEN Andrews is hoping her experience as a mother of a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) will help others who may be in a similar position.
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Ms Andrews is attempting to launch a support group for parents and carers of children with ADD/ADHD at North Kiama Neighbourhood Centre from Monday, May 5, at 10am.
"As a mother of a child with ADHD who is now an adult, I am aware of how little support there is for parents bringing up a child with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or ADHD," she said.
"This support group will allow parents to share their difficulties, challenges, occasional vents and laughter in a non-judgmental environment.
"So many pressures are put on parents and carers who have children who suffer with ADHD or ADD from people in society who see normal looking kids acting up, thinking they are just naughty brats - they just don't understand the difficulties associated.
"With 20 years' experience of working in the community, I have facilitated many groups and I have a genuine personal passion for helping others to understand and cope with ADHD.
"This group isn't about me and my experiences. I just want to facilitate the formation of the group and want the other parents to take ownership and share their experiences - it's a passion for me. I have been there and you just don't get away from it.
"What society doesn't understand is that ADHD isn't a disability - there are parts of what my son does that I would love to have. He has so much energy.
"My son is 22 now and has learned how to cope with it, and what I hope to do is show parents with little children know how to cope with it and know what the strategies are so they can pass this on to their children."
To attend, phone Sharon at the North Kiama Neighbourhood Centre on 4237 8422.