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When a child is diagnosed with a learning and thinking difference, their parents often focus all their energy on helping. Like advocating for their child, or figuring out what support is needed. With so much to juggle, it's easy for parents to lose sight of their own mental well-being.

In this episode, Julian talks with Dr. Monica Johnson. Dr. Johnson, also known as “Dr. J,” is a psychologist and the host of Understood.org’s ADHD and podcast. Listen as Dr. J breaks down emotions parents may experience after receiving their child’s diagnosis. And get her advice on how to set boundaries and make time for self-care while still supporting your child.

Related resources

• Parental burnout? What to do before you lose it
• Guided meditation for stressed parents
• CHADD
• LD OnLine

Timestamps

(01:20) Common emotions parents experience after their child’s diagnosis

(03:52) How parents can balance self-care and supporting their child

(04:10) What self-care can look like for parents

For a transcript and more resources, visit our episode page on Understood.org.

We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at opportunitygap@understood.org.

Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give