ADHD Stigma
Champaign Counseling Champaign Counseling

ADHD Stigma

ADHD stigma is considered one of several risk factors for negative outcomes of ADHD, including developing other mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, alcohol/substance abuse, and eating disorders. Stigma of any kind is often connected to increasing the risk of suicide. A shocking fact about people with ADHD is that they are 3 times more likely than the general population to commit suicide.

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This is for the Parents in the Room - When should ADHD be considered for my child?
Champaign Counseling Champaign Counseling

This is for the Parents in the Room - When should ADHD be considered for my child?

Even though ADHD can look different for each individual, there is a process for exploring a possible diagnosis. When we assess for ADHD, we are looking for what falls beyond the typical childhood behavior category and how their life is impacted by those behaviors and needs. If you’re noticing your child’s behaviors seem more intense, more frequent, or last longer than what is a developmentally appropriate behavior, that is a pattern to note. We also want to reflect on how their functioning is being impacted by their behavior. Let’s look at the 2 most common settings, home and school, and see what we notice…

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Hidden in Plain Sight: Understanding Autism’s Unique Impact on Exceptional Women
Champaign Counseling Champaign Counseling

Hidden in Plain Sight: Understanding Autism’s Unique Impact on Exceptional Women

Autism not being considered as a diagnosis in childhood will have a negative impact on the child, and the consequences will continue into adulthood. Self-diagnosis is more accepted today, though it is not a replacement for a formal diagnosis, especially if accommodations are needed for work or school. Many self-diagnosed adults are choosing not to get a formal diagnosis for many reasons.

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Empowering Neurodiversity: Building Understanding and Support
Champaign Counseling Champaign Counseling

Empowering Neurodiversity: Building Understanding and Support

Celebrating neurodiversity is celebrating the different ways people think, learn, and experience the world. Neurodiversity includes conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. While we have made progress as a society in accepting neurodiversity, there are times when even well-meaning people say things that can make neurodivergent individuals and their families feel misunderstood. In this blog, we will explore common statements that can be hurtful and provide guidance on how to be a more understanding and supportive friend, parent, or advocate.

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Unveiling the Hidden Struggles: Are You Masking Your True Self?
Champaign Counseling Champaign Counseling

Unveiling the Hidden Struggles: Are You Masking Your True Self?

Masking is a term used to describe the act of camouflaging your neurodivergent traits to fit into social situations. It involves imitating neurotypical behaviors and suppressing your natural tendencies. There are costs to masking you may not be aware of.

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