Finding Out Your Child Has A Learning Disability: How Will You Maintain A Positive Outlook?
One of the worst things parents can ever experience is discovering that their child has a disability. Many will consider physical disabilities to be more difficult, but learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD) can be just as challenging and devastating. No parent will be happy seeing their children struggling so early in their lives, and the thought of them facing hardships for their life can be heartbreaking. Despite all this, it’s imperative that parents maintain a positive outlook.
Having a learning disability doesn’t mean your child’s life is ruined. If that were the case, then personalities such as Tom Cruise and Adam Levine wouldn’t be as famous as they are. There are many people, famous or not, that succeeded in life despite having a learning disability, and nothing’s stopping your child from following suit. The first thing you need to do is to stay optimistic for the sake of your child and yourself.
6 Ways to Deal With you Child’s Learning Disability: Why is a positive outlook important?
What is a learning disability? How can children persevere through their condition if their parents have given up hope? The most important thing a child with a learning disability needs is support and encouragement from their loved ones. It’ll be difficult for any child, especially those with a disability, to remain positive if the only emotions they see from their parents are sadness, frustration, and anger. You shouldn’t hide all your emotions from your child, but always keep in mind that your disposition greatly affects them.
Remaining optimistic also helps you manage stress. With a brighter perspective of life, it’ll be harder for stress to take you down. Meaning you’ll remain stronger and be capable of constantly supporting your child. Here are ways you can maintain a positive outlook:
#1 Keep things in perspective
As mentioned above, a learning disability isn’t insurmountable, but your child will have a greater chance of succeeding through it with your support. You and your child will face plenty of challenges, and it can take a toll on your mental state. This is why it’s important to constantly remind yourself that the problems you currently have can be solved. Having this perspective allows you to keep pushing through the toughest of times. Reminding your child that their condition can be improved will also help them stay motivated.
#2 Educate yourself
Learning disabilities are easier to deal with if you are knowledgeable about them. As a parent, it’s up to you to study and research everything you need to know about your child’s condition. There are problems only experts can solve, but at the end of the day, you know your child the most. Every child is different, and even those who have the same disability will need different tools and strategies in learning. Knowing which resources are available, the definition of specific learning disability and how to access them will go a long way in their learning. There are organizations that evaluate children with disability; accessing these services will provide you with a better understanding of your child’s condition.
Educating yourself not only allows you to provide better support for your child but also makes the job a lot easier. When you’re armed with knowledge, problems will feel less daunting, and it’ll be easier to remain optimistic.
#3 Manage your stress
Having a positive outlook towards your child’s condition helps in dampening the effects of stress on your mind and body. However, this also goes the other way around. When you’re struggling to manage stress, you’re unlikely to remain optimistic about life. People deal with stress differently, but there are general practices that everyone can follow to manage stress better.
#4 Don’t take stress home
Dealing with your child’s condition at home can already be stressful, don’t make the situation worse by piling stress from work on top of it. It’s easier said than done, but it’s necessary for your mental health. Before heading home, it’s advisable to talk to your partner, friend, or coworker about your problems and feelings, helping you destress. Being aware of how you feel can also be helpful. If you have the time, you can do something you enjoy or just sit in your car while listening to soothing music. Consider every activity you can do to defuse your stress before going home.
#5 Take a break
It’s easy to lose time for rest between working and taking care of your child. You may even justify your lack of rest with your desire to provide everything your child needs. However, all you’re doing is burning yourself out, rendering you incapable of supporting your child. It’s important to find time for relaxation, so you can rejuvenate yourself and remain strong. Search for ways to unwind. Find which ones work the best for you and make them a regular part of your schedule.
#6 Ask for help
Many parents take pride in being able to care for themselves and their children without help from others. While not being dependent on others signifies one’s strength and capability, it’s not a good attitude to have in times of distress. You shouldn’t be ashamed of seeking help as everybody needs a helping hand from time to time. Whether you need assistance in caring for your child or need emotional or mental support, don’t hesitate to call your friends and relatives. If you need professional help, go reach out. You don’t need to suffer from a mental illness to go to therapy. You can deal with anxiety better if you see a therapist regularly.
Conclusion
Staying optimistic is crucial in helping your child overcome the challenges that come with having a learning disability. How you approach your child’s condition will play a major role in their development. Keeping things in perspective, managing stress, and educating yourself are just a few of the many ways you can keep a positive outlook. Ultimately, only you can tell the best way you can keep your spirits up.
